Case Study #7 – Columbia University Senior Faculty Residence 

For this seventh commission from Columbia University, we continued our study of how modern families—particularly those in transition as children prepare to leave for college—live within their homes. The design needed to support a full household today, yet remain intimate and appropriately scaled when the family becomes smaller in the years ahead. 

The apartment’s expansive views of Riverside Park offered a beautiful backdrop but also presented a challenge: without thoughtful planning, the generous layout could easily feel too open or disconnected. To ensure cohesion, we once again positioned the kitchen at the center of the plan, anchoring the home’s primary daily rituals—cooking, gathering, conversation, and informal living. 

In this project, however, a new protagonist emerged: a continuous stone and millwork wall extending from the living room through the dining area and into the kitchen. This architectural thread unified the main spaces, giving them a shared identity while reinforcing the logic of the overall layout. 

Equally important was the separation of private areas. Bedrooms were intentionally placed away from the central living zones to create quieter, more secluded environments, ensuring that the residence feels balanced and comfortable whether occupied by four people or only two. 

The level of detailing and finishes reflects an elevated standard of sophistication—an atmosphere suited to a senior member of the University’s leadership. Materials, lighting, and craftsmanship were selected to convey understated elegance without sacrificing day‑to‑day functionality. 

The resulting home adapts gracefully over time, offering warmth, clarity, and a strong architectural backbone—a residence that remains complete and cohesive, no matter how the family evolves. 

Project Details:

• Location: New York, NY, United States 
• Area: 2668 SF
• Year: 2021