Nestled in the heart of New York’s Upper West Side, this triplex brownstone apartment showcases a thoughtfully designed blend of tradition and contemporary living. Designed by Barker Architecture Office, the space seamlessly integrates Pacific Northwest influences with modern New York living, creating a unique, adaptable environment for a blended family from Seattle. With a design approach that honors both privacy and connectivity, this brownstone offers a fresh perspective on urban living within the historic context of brownstone architecture.
The Architect: Barker Architecture Office
Barker Architecture Office, led by Alexandra Barker, FAIA, LEED AP, is renowned for its ability to merge spatial and material exploration with evolving human interactions with the built environment. With a diverse portfolio spanning educational institutions, retail spaces, private residences, and interiors, the firm brings a refined, thoughtful approach to each project. Their award-winning designs emphasize functionality, sustainability, and a deep understanding of the cultural and historical contexts of each project.
Design Concept: Blurring Boundaries with Thoughtful Spaces
The design of this triplex brownstone was driven by the desire to blend two distinct units—a rear garden duplex and a front triplex—into a cohesive yet separate living experience. By eliminating divisions and integrating private suites at different levels, the architects ensured that the spaces flowed naturally while maintaining a sense of independence for residents and guests alike.
At the garden level, the primary living spaces and bedroom suite create a serene retreat. The thoughtful placement of white oak paneling, terrazzo surfaces, and custom cabinetry helps create a cohesive yet diverse experience that accommodates both social gatherings and personal tranquility. The use of reeded glass and natural materials ensures that the transition between the front and rear spaces is seamless, offering both a private sanctuary and a vibrant urban oasis.
Functionality and Adaptability in Design
The triplex serves not only as a residential space but as a multi-functional home. From work-from-home spaces and family gathering areas to intimate personal retreats, the design accommodates various needs with ease. The incorporation of custom features such as the copper soaking tub, integrated nightstands, and fantasy soapstone countertops speaks to the adaptability and thoughtful curation of the spaces.
Additionally, the lower levels are tailored for flexibility—whether serving as a media room, bar area, or guest quarters, the design allows for comfortable functionality across all levels. With reeded glass walls, murals, and durable terrazzo flooring, the lower family room creates a cozy yet practical environment, while maintaining a high level of design sophistication.
Technical Sheet
| Space | Materials and Features |
|---|---|
| Living Room | “Icarus” by Andrew Zimmerman, Benchmade Modern sofa, Hatsu rug, custom coffee table, Compass Chair from Industry West, Slit Side Table by Hay, Disco Side Table by Basta, artwork from Sears Peyton Gallery |
| Powder Room | Wallpaper by Anewall, Bedrosian porcelain penny tiles |
| Garden Bar | Mirror by AYTM, Wall sconces by RBW |
| Dining | “Inclination” by Karin Schaefer, Table by Lulu and Georgia, Buddy Chairs by BluDot, Bell Pendants by Normann Copenhagen |
| Kitchen | Veronese Multicolore Terrazzo by Artistic Tile, Fantasy Soapstone by ABC Worldwide, Cedar and Moss flushmount lights, custom kitchen cabinets |
| Primary Bedroom | Chair by Lulu and Georgia, Cedar and Moss light fixture |
| Primary Bath | Custom terrazzo vanity, custom soapstone by RGNY, Precision sconces by Kelly Wearstler, Bedrosian porcelain penny tiles |
| Lower Family Room | Gus Modern sofa, Coffee table by West Elm, “Parish Hill” by Michael Abrams (Sears Peyton Gallery), Copper soaking tub by Signature Hardware |
| Rear Lower Bedroom | Wallpaper by Rebel Walls, Slit side tables by Hay, Arch light by Hay |
| Front Lower Bedroom | Wallpaper by Rebel Walls, Desk by Dims, A+R table lamp, Anthropologie rug, Hoist sconce by RBW |
| Front Lower Bath | Tile by Heath, Sink by Nameeks, Vola Faucet, Chip sconce by RBW |
| Parlor Room | Acuario Wallpaper by Wallpaper from the Seventies, Cirkus Wall sconces by AGO |
| Parlor Bath | Zia porcelain tiles, Bedrosian porcelain penny tile, Venus sconce by Cedar and Moss |
