Flatiron Apartment by Cojot Designs
Redefining industrial chic, Flatiron Apartment stands as a blend of contemporary living with the timeless charm of traditional New York lofts.
Cojot Designs maintains the artistic and eclectic feel of the classic, industrial loft style while injecting warmth and refinement. This approach highlights the transformative power of materials and objects, creating a space that feels like home. Located in Manhattan’s Flatiron District, the apartment belongs to Lea Cojot, founder of Cojot Designs. Situated within a 185 square-metre loft in a historic weaving factory dating back to the early 1900s, the designer modernises the building while honouring its heritage features. “My main goal in the design was to be authentic to the loft space,” says Cojot. “‘Industrial’ is not my natural style, so I was thinking about how I could be industrial in this old weaving factory while still adding warmth and comfort.”
Some original features have been preserved to enhance the overall design. Terracotta pillars and visible plumbing are retained, alongside all original loft windows lining a single wall. Considered spatial adjustments were also made to enhance functionality. “A main focus of mine was creating distinct spaces through the ceiling plan and lighting plan,” says Cojot. Despite adopting an open-plan layout integrating living, kitchen, dining and office areas, the design cleverly incorporated lighting to delineate each zone.
The kitchen serves as the main hub of the loft. “We love hosting, so we kept it a big, open space, ideal for dinner parties, with the kitchen as the centre of the space.” A standout feature is the kitchen island, expertly crafted around an original column. Fashioned from Calacatta Malva stone, its striking geometric form complements the Calacatta Malva splashback.
The material palette is characterised by softness, texture and movement. Sculptural elements and soft furnishings, including upholstered pieces, a curved sofa and luxurious bar stools, add warmth to the space. The selected stone textures also introduce a layer of contrast. “I clearly love the movement of stone, and think it mimics the original columns that we left as is,” says Cojot. Eclectic pieces such as vintage benches and Andy Warhol artwork are thoughtfully placed, contributing to a cosy atmosphere.
Known primarily for working on large-scale hospitality projects, Cojot Designs approaches Flatiron Apartment as a deeply personal endeavour, marking a bold shift for the studio. Through this project, Cojot Designs demonstrates how warmth, objects and materiality combine to create a truly inviting home.
Interior design by Cojot Designs. Artwork by Andy Warhol and Kimiko Yoshida.