Explore luxury interior design that blends history with modern style. See how rugs add warmth, sophistication, and timeless elegance to every space.
When a historic property on New York’s Upper East Side needed a transformation, an interior designer known for their innovative style was called upon to breathe new life into the residence. With a deep respect for the building’s legacy and a modern design sensibility, the designer crafted a space that balances the elegance of the past with the luxuries of the present. This luxurious five-story home is a testament to the ability to honor history while embracing bold, contemporary design choices that elevate every room.
In the world of luxury interior design, striking the right balance between old and new is essential, and this design philosophy does just that. The careful integration of traditional elements with modern interventions has resulted in a home that feels both timeless and fresh—an embodiment of true luxury.
Honoring the Past with Thoughtful Modern Interventions
The transformation of this Upper East Side townhouse began with a commitment to preserving the home’s historical character. Originally constructed as two row houses in 1899 and later combined into one grand residence in 1914, the building presented a unique opportunity to celebrate its past while pushing the boundaries of contemporary design.
The designer, Ryan Korban, embraced the home’s historical layout and materials, such as Gothic-inspired moldings, stained glass, and intricate wood paneling, while introducing modern design elements that would elevate the space. A key example of this is the reimagining of the formal dining room into a vast, welcoming entrance hall. By doing so, the space was transformed into a luxurious lobby-like area—proving that luxury interior design isn’t just about aesthetics but also about function.
The careful juxtaposition of traditional architectural features with modern interventions is what truly brings this space to life. It’s about honoring the original charm of the building while integrating sleek, contemporary elements that make it functional and beautiful for modern living.
Transforming Transitional Spaces with Purpose
One of the most striking features of this home is the innovative use of “non-rooms”—transitional areas that are elevated to become destinations in their own right. These spaces, like hallways or corridors, are often overlooked in traditional home design. However, in this luxury interior design transformation, every corner was thoughtfully reimagined.
The former formal dining room, for example, became a spacious entrance hallway, where cozy seating and sculptural pieces create a space for relaxation and conversation. This shift in the way spaces are used reflects a broader trend in luxury interior design, where even the most utilitarian areas are given new purpose and beauty.
These non-rooms are designed to challenge the conventional notion of space and functionality. What were once mere passageways are now functional, luxurious areas where visitors can gather, relax, and take in the surroundings. By rethinking the role of these spaces, the designer redefines what a luxury interior design home can be.
Exploring Color, Texture, and Rugs to Elevate Ambiance
Color and texture are vital elements in any luxury interior design project, and this home is a perfect example of how thoughtfully chosen hues can transform a space. A standout feature of the design is the “blue room,” a striking space awash in a deep, regal blue that sets a bold, immersive tone. The richness of the color contrasts beautifully with the soft textures of bespoke fabrics and custom rugs, creating a sensory experience that’s both luxurious and inviting.
In luxury interior design, the choice of rugs can make a profound impact. Custom rugs in the blue room complement the space’s color palette, grounding the room with texture and adding warmth to the otherwise dramatic tones. These carefully chosen rugs enhance the space, echoing the home’s commitment to sophisticated design. Their plush surfaces contrast beautifully with the sleek surfaces of marble, wood, and other materials found throughout the home.
The use of color is not limited to just one room—throughout the home, different hues are used to evoke specific moods and create a cohesive visual language. The deep blue of the blue room, for instance, is complemented by the warmth of natural wood paneling and luxurious textiles, making the space feel both sophisticated and welcoming.
Texture also plays a critical role in the overall aesthetic. Whether it’s the rich velvet of a sofa, the smooth surface of a marble countertop, or the tactile softness of custom rugs, every material choice is carefully curated to enhance the home’s luxurious feel. The combination of bold colors and plush textures is a hallmark of luxury interior design, elevating the home into a realm of opulence and comfort.
Juxtaposing Furnishings, Art, and Rugs for Dynamic Spaces
In true luxury interior design fashion, this home’s design features a carefully curated selection of furnishings and artwork that spans a range of styles, from contemporary to classic. The contrast between these pieces creates a dynamic and harmonious environment that feels both eclectic and cohesive.
For instance, in the library lounge, modern furniture is paired with antique wood paneling, creating a conversation between eras. Artwork, too, plays a role in this fusion, with contemporary works placed alongside traditional elements. This juxtaposition is one of the key principles of luxury interior design, where the careful blending of different periods and styles creates an atmosphere of sophistication and intrigue.
This approach to design ensures that no space feels too curated or overly styled. Instead, each room feels like it’s been built over time, with pieces added as the home evolves. It’s about creating a collected, lived-in feeling that is at the heart of luxury living.
Balancing Beauty and Practicality for Real Life
In designing this home, practicality was as important as aesthetic beauty. The space needed to function seamlessly for a family of five, with distinct areas for both family time and private moments. Luxury interior design is not just about creating beautiful spaces; it’s about designing for how people live in those spaces.
While every room is carefully designed to be visually stunning, the layout ensures that each area is as functional as it is luxurious. The designer thoughtfully considered the needs of the family, creating spaces that offer both beauty and practicality. The result is a home that can be lived in comfortably, even with the busy dynamics of a family, without compromising the aesthetic integrity of the space.
Elevating Spaces Through the Art of Rugs
This transformation on the Upper East Side is a perfect example of how luxury interior design can blend historical reverence with modern elegance. By respecting the home’s original architecture while introducing new, bold design choices, the result is a space that feels both timeless and contemporary.
If you’re looking to elevate your own space with the same level of sophistication and luxury, consider incorporating high-quality rugs that complement your unique aesthetic. TAPIS Studio offers an exclusive collection of luxury rugs, designed to add texture, color, and warmth to any room.
With our wide variety of styles, you can find the perfect rug to complete your design vision and bring your home to life in the same way that this stunning transformation has done.
Visit TAPIS Studio today to explore our luxurious collection and discover how the right rug can redefine your space.
Photography: Adrian Gaut
