Columbia University engaged Domoarchitecture to complete renovations of two 2,600-square-foot senior faculty apartments in one of their architecturally distinctive buildings—a structure with a curved primary facade that creates unique spatial challenges. 

The challenge: design functional, elegant residences within a building envelope that doesn’t conform to standard rectangular layouts. The curved facade meant unconventional room shapes, complex furniture planning, and careful detailing to make the architecture work for daily living rather than against it. 

Our approach turned the constraint into an asset. We embraced the curves in our space planning, using custom millwork and thoughtful furniture layouts that respond to the building’s geometry. Strategic placement of built-ins maximized usable space while the curved walls became a distinctive design feature rather than a problem to solve around. 

The result: two residences that demonstrate how thoughtful design transforms architectural quirks into character. Columbia gained apartments that attract senior faculty precisely because they’re distinctive, not in spite of the building’s challenges. 

Project Scope: 

• Client: Columbia University Real Estate 
• Type: Complete apartment renovations for senior faculty housing 
• Size: Two apartments, 2,600 square feet each 
• Challenge: Curved primary facade creating non-standard room geometries 
• Solution: Custom millwork and strategic planning that embraces the curves 
• Services: Design and construction administration 

Project Details:

• Location: New York,NY, United States 
• Area:
  • Apartment 1A: 2503 SF
  • Apartment 82: 2588 SF
• Year: 2025