A brooklyn Firm Revives a Historic Harlem Rectory
Table of Contents
- 1. A brooklyn Firm Revives a Historic Harlem Rectory
- 2. Harlem Rectory Renovation by GRT Architects reveals a Playful Fusion of Structure and Design
- 3. A Harlem Rectory Transformed: Where Art and Architecture Collide
- 4. How did the existing architectural details of the harlem rectory influence your team’s design choices for the renovation?
- 5. Interview with Tal Schori, Founding Partner of GRT Architects about the Harlem rectory Renovation
Nestled in the heart of Harlem, a neo-gothic rectory, built in 1907, has been beautifully transformed into a modern residence. Originally designed by architect Thomas Henry Poole, the Rectory of st. Thomas had fallen into disrepair adn stood vacant for years. Its rediscovery came when a world-renowned artist, working on a commission for the adjacent church, stumbled upon the property.
Recognizing the architectural importance of the building, the artist enlisted brooklyn-based GRT Architects to breathe new life into the derelict four-story structure.The firm saw an possibility to not only restore the rectory but also to thoughtfully reimagine its interior layout to suit modern living.
“This renovation is a milestone in GRT’s ongoing dialog with historic structures of New York city on account of the material and spatial innovations brought to bear on an adaptive reuse project,” commented the studio.
GRT Architects meticulously restored the brownstone and brick exterior, employing subtle variations in materials to subtly highlight the points of intervention.Within, soaring arched windows, a characteristic feature of neo-gothic architecture, were celebrated and enhanced. A notable design element is the use of reeded oak panelling, which lines the upper portions of the walls, adding a layer of texture and warmth to the renovated spaces.
The project stands as a testament to the power of adaptive reuse in revitalizing historic structures and breathing new life into cherished architectural gems.
This isn’t just a house; it’s a conversation between history and modern living. A Harlem rectory, rich with the stories of its past, has been lovingly transformed by GRT Architects into a stunning testament to contemporary design.
One of the most striking features of this renovation is the reshaping of the home’s windows. The architects ingeniously paired existing arched windows, creating elongated vertical apertures that hint at the double-height spaces within.
Beyond the dramatic windows, a holistic redesign unfolded.All remaining windows were reglazed to achieve uniformity,while the roof was thoughtfully raised four feet. This strategic addition provided ample headroom for a dedicated art studio nestled on the top floor.
The home is thoughtfully arranged, with a guest apartment gracing the garden level and the main residence occupying the central three-and-a-half storeys. Connecting these distinct spaces is a graceful white perforated-metal staircase, ascending five floors before culminating beneath a skylight.
“The main spaces of the home deploy simple materials to exquisite effect,” GRT Architects remarked.
Harlem Rectory Renovation by GRT Architects reveals a Playful Fusion of Structure and Design
A stunning renovation project by GRT architects has transformed a Harlem rectory into a beautiful and functional family home.the team deftly blended architectural finesse with a playful approach to design, creating a space that is both chic and inviting. A notable feature is the striking double-height living space, brought alive by reeded white oak panels that ascend the walls and meet the ceiling, creating a sense of vertical flow and grandeur. “The desire was to create a strong architectural vocabulary,” said the architects.”One that manifested in both in the structure and in the details.”
This architectural vocabulary is further amplified by a custom Michael Anastassiades chandelier, whose globe-shaped diffusers cast a soft, ambient glow over the space. The centerpiece? A modular Mario bellini Camaleonda sectional in tufted leather, inviting relaxation while fostering a sense of contemporary sophistication. A Misha Kahn coffee table adds another layer of personality, showcasing a blend of high-end craftsmanship and artistic flair.
Ascending the iconic perforated white metal staircase, which serves as a visual centerpiece connecting all five levels of the home, reveals a mezzanine library and workspace. A thoughtful detail? A red desk is nestled into the curve of the balustrade, creating a small, intimate nook perfect for focused work or contemplation.
The oak reeding continues its rhythmic journey through the kitchen and dining area, adorning floor-to-ceiling cabinetry surrounding a window above the sink. This deliberate repetition of the design motif creates a sense of continuity throughout the apartment, emphasizing the thoughtful and deliberate nature of the renovation.
GRT Architects recently completed a captivating renovation of an East Village apartment, seamlessly blending modern aesthetics with classic elements. The designers skillfully incorporated oak flooring and striking mosaic tiles, creating a space that’s both stylish and functional.
one of the standout features is the dramatic contrast created by the black and white tiled floor. Adding a touch of warmth and texture, the chimney stack stands out, adorned with blush-toned concrete tiles from GRT’s acclaimed Flutes and Reeds collection. These tiles, characterized by their disrupted fluted patterns, introduce a unique visual element that elevates the space.
The studio space boasts an industrial-chic vibe,showcasing exposed structural elements and utilitarian track and strip lighting. Motorized shades, strategically placed above roof windows, allow residents to effortlessly control the amount of natural light flooding the apartment.
the renovation demonstrates GRT Architects’ ability to transform spaces into havens of contemporary elegance, seamlessly blending architectural ingenuity with thoughtful design choices.
A Harlem Rectory Transformed: Where Art and Architecture Collide
In the heart of Harlem, a stunning rectory has been reborn through the visionary work of GRT Architects. Founded in 2014 by Tal Schori and Rustam-marc Mehta, the firm is known for its unique approach to renovation projects across New York City. This Harlem residence, however, stands as a testament to their ability to seamlessly blend artistic expression with functional design.
the architects took a truly collaborative approach,tapping into the client’s artistic network to source unique and bespoke elements. “Finishes and fixtures were created more than they were bought by tapping into our client’s artistic network for cast brass door hardware, irregularly struck brick, three dimensional concrete tiles and other elements,” explains the firm. “Furniture, fabrics and slabs were all sourced by and from friends in the fashion, art, and interior design worlds.”
This emphasis on craftsmanship and personal connection is evident throughout the home. Colourful accents add a vibrant touch to every room, from patterned textiles and bold throw pillows to the hexagonal tiles that define the bathroom floor. The client’s extensive art collection serves as a captivating centerpiece, further enriching the space’s artistic ambiance.
GRT Architects has garnered a reputation for its remarkable conversion projects, stretching from the restoration of a Brooklyn townhouse featuring vintage blue bathtubs and green cabinetry, to the complete overhaul of an East Village apartment.
This Harlem rectory renovation stands as a testament to their ability to breathe new life into existing structures while honoring their history and inherent beauty. The result is a space that is both aesthetically stunning and deeply personal, a harmonious fusion of art, architecture, and the unique vision of its client.
Photography by Jason Schmidt.
How did the existing architectural details of the harlem rectory influence your team’s design choices for the renovation?
Interview with Tal Schori, Founding Partner of GRT Architects about the Harlem rectory Renovation
Archyde: Tal Schori, thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. This Harlem rectory renovation is absolutely stunning. What inspired your team’s approach to this project?
Tal Schori: Thank you for having me! We always strive to create spaces that reflect the personalities and needs of our clients while celebrating the unique history and character of each building. This rectory, with its grand proportions and intricate details, presented a splendid chance to blend modern sensibility with the building’s existing architecture.
Archyde: The use of reeded white oak throughout the space is particularly striking. Can you tell us more about the design rationale behind that choice?
Tal Schori: The reeded oak serves as a unifying element,connecting the different spaces and creating a sense of flow and continuity. We wanted to bring a contemporary touch while respecting the building’s historic significance.The reeded pattern adds a subtle texture and visual interest, and its warm tone adds to the home’s inviting atmosphere.
archyde: The collaboration with the client’s artistic network resulted in some truly unique finds. How did that process influence the final design?
Tal Schori: Collaboration is at the heart of our design process. By tapping into our client’s artistic network, we were able to source bespoke pieces that perfectly complemented their collection and gave the space a truly personal touch. From the cast brass door hardware to the irregularly struck brick, every detail was carefully considered to create a cohesive and artistic whole.
Archyde: What do you hope visitors take away from this renovated space?
Tal Schori: We hope visitors feel inspired by the seamless blend of art and architecture, the unique personality reflected in every detail, and the harmonious composition that celebrates both history and contemporary design. We believe that a home should be a reflection of its inhabitants,and we are proud to have created a space that truly embodies the spirit of our clients.
