Inner-city sanctuary

Adaptive reuse, or the transformation of former commercial spaces into residential units, isn't a new concept, especially in major cities such as New York. However, successfully turning one into the other takes a mix of expertise and design flair.

The featured project was previously an art gallery in the center of SoHo known for its bustling vibe. This was an element that attracted the owners to the property, but one which they hoped to leave at the front door escaping into the sanctuary of an all-embracing retreat, says Etienne Coffinier, principal of Coffinier Ku Design.

"Tranquility was the top priority for the clients. The home was to be first and foremost somewhere they could escape to at the end of the day."

With a wish list that included a mix of SoHo-modern and European styling, as well as spaces where each could retreat to, the onus became one of rearranging the cavernous area to create an intimate space.

"Paradoxically, in order to create a sense of closeness, the first step was to remove existing partitions," says Coffinier.

With the space exposed, Coffinier and company director Ed Ku set to creating their clients' dream home.

"There was enough beauty in the space that we were able to focus on playing with the light," says Ku. "We chose a refined color palette that teamed matte walls with high-gloss lacquered doors and floors to create a visual texture and softness that contrasts the city."

Despite the 14ft-high ceilings and the 4300sq ft area, Coffinier Ku Design succeeded in fulfilling their clients' desires.

"Our style is not to overstuff the spaces, but rather allow them to breathe. We have refined our palette over the years in a way that has allowed us to create warmth in subtle ways," says Coffinier.

Ku says, "The end result doesn't feel cold, which could easily happen with the pale tones and wood floor in such a space. But there is an ambiance that is warm and inviting, one that creates intimacy."

Story by: Justin Foote