Case study # 6 for Columbia University; We continued our ongoing study of how contemporary families inhabit their homes—particularly families in transition, with children preparing to leave for college. The design needed to support two phases of life simultaneously: a home lively and functional for a full household today, yet equally comfortable and appropriately scaled when the family later becomes smaller. 

With sweeping views of Riverside Park, the apartment offered generous space but risked feeling too large or disconnected if not carefully organized. To address this, we once again placed the kitchen at the center of the plan, establishing it as the anchor for the home’s primary activities. From this core, daily routines—cooking, gathering, informal conversation—extend outward into adjacent spaces that maintain visual and spatial cohesion. 

Equally important was the separation of private areas. Bedrooms were positioned deliberately away from the central living zones, creating a sense of retreat while ensuring the residence remains balanced and intimate even when only part of the family is at home. 

The resulting design provides a flexible environment able to adapt gracefully over time—a residence that remains warm, functional, and complete, whether lived in by four people or two. 

Project Details:

• Location: New York, NY, United States 
• Area: 2124 SF
• Year: 2021