In the vibrant neighborhood of West Chelsea, known for its artistic vibrancy and historical allure, there exists a beautifully designed apartment that marries the old with the new. Omar Aqeel from Methods of Assembly crafted this second home as a city sanctuary for a client often traveling from Sag Harbor. The space is a thoughtfully arranged homage to the New York of the 1970s, yet it does not compromise on modern comforts or timeless sophistication.
A Tribute to Art and Historical Legacy
This project was a deeply personal endeavor for Omar. His mother, Susan Aqeel, had always envisioned a home that doubled as an art haven. She spent her 1960s in SoHo, rubbing shoulders with notable artists like Louise Nevelson and Jamie Wyeth. Now in retirement and living bicoastally, she desired a metropolitan hideaway. She entrusted Omar with the task of creating a living space that echoed her independent nature and her passion for design.
Maximizing the Apartment’s Architectural Value
Set in an 1854 Anglo-Italianate townhouse, the apartment boasted intricate stone fireplaces and expansive French door windows. However, its kitchen, hallways, and bathrooms required extensive renovations.
A significant alteration was the removal of 8-foot drop ceilings which uncovered an extra three feet of vertical space, lending a more open feel and allowing more natural light to permeate the apartment.
Understated Yet Expressive Decor Palette
The interior surfaces are treated with Color Atelier Bone lime wash and Farrow & Ball’s All White, fostering a soft, welcoming ambiance. This neutral backdrop perfectly showcases Susan’s eclectic art collection, featuring both contemporary pieces and vintage finds from friends and former acquaintances.
The oak flooring, now refinished in a lighter shade, adds to the room’s warmth and unity. An elegant reveal trim around the room’s perimeter provides a subtle yet sophisticated architectural detail. This setting offers Susan a tranquil space to unwind and reflect, away from the bustling art scenes of the city.
The ‘Salon’: A Living Room Inspired by Galleries
Omar’s design for the living room takes inspiration from the informal gallery spaces of Parisian salons, known for stimulating discussions and celebrating art. Set against a pristine white backdrop, bold, eye-catching pieces strike a balance.
- Cherry-red 1978 Don Chadwick club chairs inject a lively burst of color.
- A large-scale painting by Evan Paul English dominates as the centerpiece.
- A Brutalist-style nero black marble library table merges historical gravitas with contemporary flair.
- The modern Astep VV Cinquanta Suspension lamp introduces a sculptural element.
Timeless Sophistication with a Personalized Approach
The apartment fulfills multiple roles: a peaceful retreat, a chic spot for after-gallery socials, and a creative workspace. Omar’s design choices are a testament to his deep understanding of Susan’s character and her artistic inclinations.
“This project was my tribute to her as I see her: bold, graceful, independent, and unyielding to expectations,” Omar remarks.
The finished space not only pays respect to Susan’s history but also celebrates her current life, embodying artistry, nostalgia, and modern elegance.
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