A landmarked Upper West Side townhouse transformed into an intimate, art-filled salon where traditional architecture and world-class modern art converge in a warm, glamorous, and deeply personal family home.
The West 90th Street Townhouse reimagines a nineteenth-century landmark as a refined cultural haven for a third-generation family of art collectors. Inside this 5,500-square-foot residence, traditional architectural detailing meets an extraordinary portfolio of modern and contemporary artwork—including pieces by Picasso, Basquiat, Leger, Koons, and Matisse.
Warm palettes, lush silks and velvets, iconic mid-century furnishings, and sculptural lighting create an atmosphere that is both intimate and elevated. From gallery-like entry spaces to richly layered private rooms, the home balances sophistication with comfort, resulting in a tailored retreat designed for both family life and social exchange.
The primary challenge was integrating an exceptional, museum-caliber art collection into a landmarked townhouse without overwhelming the historic architecture or creating a sterile gallery environment. The home needed to honor its nineteenth-century bones while feeling current, livable, and comfortable for a vibrant family.
Additionally, each floor required a distinct identity—adult sophistication, family livability, and children’s creativity—while still maintaining a cohesive design language throughout the entire residence.
The redesign leaned into contrast as its core strategy—balancing traditional structure with bold modern art and furnishings:
Entry level conceived as an informal gallery, introducing the home’s visual language through casually displayed masterpieces.
Mid-century icons by Knoll, Prober, and Robsjohn-Gibbings were paired with contemporary sculptural works by Koons and Matisse to bridge eras and aesthetic styles.
A lush, textile-rich master suite employed silk, velvet, and refined vintage pieces to create warmth and respite amidst large-scale art.
Upper levels shifted in tone, incorporating glass railings, vibrant colors, and playful furniture to reflect the children’s spirited environment.
A cozy, texture-filled family room on the top floor delivered warmth and livability, grounded by custom upholstery and standout vintage pieces.
Through meticulous curation, a warm palette, and thoughtful materiality, the townhouse becomes a living dialogue between art and architecture—sophisticated, welcoming, and flawlessly executed.
The Groves & Co. team doesn’t just design spaces—they create environments that tell a story. Their expertise and collaborative approach made the process seamless, and the end result is a space that inspires everyone who walks through our doors.
Working with Groves & Co. was a transformative experience. Their team brought our vision to life with such precision and artistry, creating a home that feels both elevated and deeply personal. Every detail was thoughtfully considered, and the final result surpassed our expectations.
