New York apartments are notorious for their lack of space, but Raad Studio managed to conjure up adequate living area through the appropriation of original architecture. The newly renovated loft combines two neighboring units into a single space by opening up previously sealed archways that run the length of the now-joined apartments, giving the residents ample space in an otherwise crowded building.
Though the residents have always owned both sides of the apartment loft, the two spaces had been sealed off from one another but for a single doorway, making each side feel claustrophobic. By opening up the space, Raad Studio helped to give the family apartment an airier appearance. Further, the original exposed brick is now a focal point of the space, whereas before it was more of a background element.
What's Driving This Trend
- Apartment Space Optimization
- The trend towards combining multiple apartments into a single space to maximize living area presents opportunities for innovative design and architectural solutions.
- Architectural Revival
- The use of original architectural elements, such as archways, in apartment renovations is a trend that offers opportunities for preserving and highlighting historical features in modern living spaces.
- Open Concept Living
- The rise in removing walls and creating open floor plans in apartments is a trend that creates opportunities for creating more spacious and flexible living environments.
Who This Affects Most
- Architecture
- Architects and designers can find opportunities in creating innovative solutions for combining multiple apartment units and optimizing space.
- Interior Design
- With the trend towards open concept living, interior designers can explore ways to maximize space and make use of original architectural elements in their designs.
- Real Estate
- As the demand for larger and more flexible living spaces grows, the real estate industry can capitalize on the trend by offering multi-unit apartment conversions and renovated loft spaces.
