They say that a home with good bones can be transformed into something extraordinary, and that is exactly what designers David Davis and Brad Wilson accomplished with this 1930s New York City apartment. By looking past the original surface and focusing on the apartment’s inherent strengths—its layout, light and spectacular location—they created a contemporary, comfortable residence that feels both refined and relaxed. The renovation preserves the sense of history while introducing modern materials, custom storage and a cohesive palette that highlights the views and the apartment’s architecture.
The heart of the home is an open-plan living area that is bright, airy and deliberately calm. A palette dominated by whites and soft neutrals allows select furnishings and architectural details to stand out: gray sectionals create comfortable conversational zones and visually anchor the living space, while tall windows and sleek doors in a dark metallic frame connect the interior to a spacious balcony and the city beyond. Those dark frames provide a subtle contrast that emphasizes the views without overpowering the composition.
The dining area stands out with a Saarinen-style dining table topped in dark marble, a striking open bookshelf and carefully considered lighting that turns everyday dining into a focal moment. The shelving is both sculptural and practical, offering display space for books and art while integrating storage so the overall look remains uncluttered. Lighting choices were selected to give the dining zone warmth and intimacy without competing with the natural light that floods the room by day.
The kitchen continues the apartment’s restrained, elegant language. Marble countertops and matching backsplashes create a luxurious yet quiet backdrop, while white-lacquered cabinets blend into the predominantly monochromatic scheme for a seamless look. Thoughtful details—ample counter space, integrated storage and clean lines—make the kitchen as functional as it is beautiful, allowing cookware and daily essentials to remain out of sight and preserving the home’s serene atmosphere.
Storage was a key consideration throughout the redesign. Custom shelving and built-in cabinets appear in unexpected places and are designed to disappear into the white backdrop when not in use. In the second bedroom—which doubles as a guest room and home office—additional shelves and concealed storage provide flexibility. These choices turn potential clutter into organized, accessible storage that supports multi-use living without sacrificing style.
The master bedroom follows the same tranquil aesthetic: predominantly white walls and textiles set a restful tone, while carefully chosen mid-century modern pieces add character without overwhelming the space. The apartment’s primary bathroom is generous in scale and finished with high-quality materials that echo the kitchen’s refined marble surfaces, creating a cohesive, elevated feel throughout the home.
Finally, the apartment’s balcony and windows provide expansive views that remind you this is a New York City home: the panorama stretches from Rockefeller Center to glimpses of the East River and the Hudson beyond. Those views helped shape the design decisions, encouraging a neutral palette and unobtrusive furnishings so the skyline remains the star.
Photography: Ayla Christman