In 1902, when the East Village apartment building Onyx Court was constructed, kitchens weren’t viewed as the hearts of the home. So a compact cook space was tucked into the back corner of each unit, far from the social areas and the natural light. But in the 120 years since the six-story structure’s inception, the kitchen has become an epicenter of domestic life—which is what GRT Architects had in mind when they gut-renovated one of the apartments.
The New York City-based firm wanted to reimagine the floor plan of the 1,100-square-foot abode for contemporary living while maintaining its turn-of-the-century spirit. That meant relocating the kitchen to the opposite end, by an east-facing window, but keeping it partially separated from the dining and living spaces. A totally open layout would’ve felt too modern.
When it came to the aesthetics, GRT sought to transcend eras and trends. “It was a very natural exploration of what materials look interesting together, which surfaces should disappear, which should be really pronounced,” says co-founding partner Rustam Mehta. “I still don’t have a one-word summary for what the look of this kitchen is. And I love that. It’s got its own thing happening.”
With warm white oak cabinetry—some of which is suspended from the ceiling—and three varieties of geometric tiles, the inviting, playful kitchen combines elements of mid-century modern design with twists on Art Deco details and hints of Scandinavian minimalism, resulting in a timeless vibe all its own.
For more small kitchens, see:
- Steal This Look: Playful Minimalism in a Parisian Kitchen
- Kitchen of the Week: A Pearl-Like Cook Space in Portland, OR
- Steal This Look: Creative Plywood in a London Kitchen
N.B.: This story originally ran on November 17, 2022 and has been updated.
Frequently asked questions
Who are the architects of the tiled kitchen in East Village, NYC?
The architects of the tiled kitchen in East Village, NYC are GRT Architects.
What is the design style of the kitchen?
The design style of the kitchen is tiled, which gives it a unique and vibrant look.
Where is the kitchen located?
The kitchen is located in East Village, NYC.
What materials are used for the kitchen tiles?
The kitchen tiles are made using handmade terra-cotta tiles.
Are there any special features in the kitchen?
Yes, the kitchen features a custom-designed range hood and shelving system, providing functional and aesthetic benefits.
Are there any specific challenges faced during the renovation?
Yes, during the renovation, the architects had to work with limited space and integrate the kitchen into an existing historic structure.
Is there a particular color scheme in the kitchen?
Yes, the kitchen has a light and neutral color scheme, creating a bright and inviting space.
Are there any sustainable design elements in the kitchen?
Yes, the architects incorporated LED lighting and energy-efficient appliances to promote sustainability.
Can I hire GRT Architects for my own kitchen renovation project?
Yes, you can hire GRT Architects for your own kitchen renovation project. You can contact them through their website for inquiries and consultations.
Is there any additional information about the kitchen design?
For more information about the kitchen design, you can visit the Remodelista website and read the full article on GRT Architects' tiled kitchen in East Village, NYC.
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