- Interior
Michael K. Chen completely revived an impressive historic townhouse in Manhattan. Over no less than four floors, MKCA brought their contemporary touch to this historical context.
We've brought projects by Michael K. Chen to you before and it's no wonder why we're such big fans of his work. Today, we'd like to lead you through another impressive house designed by Michael K. Chen Architecture. This time it's a beautiful 1879 Neo-Grec townhouse of no less than five floors with a large roof terrace. The house is located in Manhattan's Upper East Side and has an impressive area of over 900 m2. It has been completely renovated and refurbished with a contemporary look in a historical context. The decoration and distribution is focused on family life, but also on entertaining and organizing events on a larger scale. That is why there are different living spaces and sitting rooms on different levels. Due to the generous vertical openings, the house feels open and airy despite the narrower design that increases with height. From each floor, you have a view of the spaces on the level above or below. 
Some historical details and styles have been retained. In the entrance hall, the ceiling has a beautiful pattern and decorative surfaces that were characteristic of the Neo-Grec style. The 'Objet Trouve' mirror by Kodor Design together with the 'Herve van der Straeten'-sconces by Maison Gerard match this beautifully. Further in the house, contemporary and custom-made furniture is combined with design pieces and works of art. In most rooms, there is a soft palette of light colours such as beige, blue, white and grey, complemented by brass elements or more colourful details in furniture or paintings. 
MKCA brings contemporary interior into a historical context.
From the outside, it's already a captivating home with its Neo-Grec historical features, and inside everything is equally impressive thanks to the openness of the different levels and the perfectly curated selection of furniture, works of art and decorative objects.
Header photo © Alan Tansey