Buried Treasure

Remodeler: X-Act Contracting, New York, N.Y.

Architect: Jeffrey Simon, AIA, New York

In a nutshell: The client wanted to update this circa 1915 Manhattan loft while maintaining historical details wherever possible.

Tips & Tricks: This project was all about making the most of existing conditions, both aesthetically and from a construction perspective. 

Instead of simply trying to disguise the unattractive wooden structural columns throughout the residence, remodelers completely encased them in steel, creating a polished, yet industrial, look. 

A fireplace in the living room was at the top of the client’s wish list. This was accomplished with a high-Btu model and a flue pipe that’s installed horizontally and uses an exhaust fan. Crews tapped into an old, non-functioning chimney flue and a steel exhaust pipe was used to access the roof through the old chimney chase. This allowed a fireplace to be added in the middle of the residence without penetrating the roof membrane. 

The plan called for a flat dropped ceiling, but the existing ceiling was pitched. By framing the drywall to the bottom of the rafters, more room was created resulting in 18-foot ceilings. The added height allowed for construction of a second floor with a study, additional bedroom, bathroom, and laundry room. A steel balcony complements the industrial-styled support columns. Reinforcing the existing structure to accommodate the added weight took an enormous amount of steel.

See the full list of winning entries here.