Loft in Tribeca by Onland Architecture

Loft in Tribeca is a creatively renovated residential space nestled within an iconic pre-war industrial building in lower Manhattan.

The aim was to transform and rejuvenate the residence to accommodate both large gatherings and intimate moments, all while exhibiting the art collection of the clients – a contemporary art dealer and an art restorer. Leading the renovation of the 241 square-metre apartment on Warren Street was Landon Brown, founder and principal of Onland Architecture. Occupying the entire fourth floor of a warehouse originally built in 1854, the space had remained largely unchanged since its conversion into a condo in the 1990s.

The aim was to transform and rejuvenate the residence to accommodate both large gatherings and intimate moments.

The dated condo underwent a thoughtful renovation to enhance functionality and maximise its open space, high ceilings and natural light. Brown’s design strategy included creating additional wall space for artwork by removing a coat closet and electrical panel. He also opted to narrow two guestrooms to expand the third, turning it into a bespoke library. The project introduced new amenities such as a laundry area and walk-in wardrobe, while the kitchen was redesigned with reinstated oak flooring and a spacious pantry.

Central to the home’s charm is its blend of playful furnishings and vibrant artworks that highlight the clients’ collection. In the kitchen, original teak stools designed by Swiss architect Pierre Jeanneret introduce an understated elegance. This is juxtaposed with a bold display in the entryway: a group of full-scale, cast-bronze animals, a spiky, chair-shaped sculpture by Elisabetta Benassi and a painted bronze cast of a corncob by sculptor David Adamo. The library offers a more subtle atmosphere, featuring a complete set of the art theory journal October, complemented by a black walnut desk.

Central to the home’s charm is its blend of playful furnishings and vibrant artworks that highlight the clients’ collection.

Art takes centrestage in every living area: above the elevator door, three matte grey tin wall works by Richard Tuttle command attention, while Thomas Schütte’s 2002 sculpture Gelber Kopf (Yellow Head) occupies a space between two front windows. The home also showcases artworks by Donald Judd, Helen Mirra, Mel Bochner, Christian Marclay, Yves Klein and others, woven seamlessly throughout the space.

The home’s material palette leans towards neutral and classic elements, providing a contrast to the bold furnishings and extensive art collection. White walls and ceilings set a clean backdrop, while classic timber floors ground the space, ensuring the art remains the focus. In the kitchen, a marble countertop is complemented by a reclaimed oak end grain floor from Small Victory Materials, adding a subtle touch to the otherwise animated space.

White walls and ceilings set a clean backdrop, while classic timber floors ground the space, ensuring the art remains the focus.

Onland Architecture effortlessly blends playfulness with elegance in an innovative and evocative manner, creating a space that functions not only as a home but also as a bold, immersive showcase for art and sculpture.

Architecture by Onland Architecture. Build by Vera Forma and Gabriel Check. Artwork by Thomas Schütte, Donald Judd, Helen Mirra, Richard Tuttle, Mel Bochner, Christian Marclay and Yves Klein.