413 East 50 St Townhouse Design + Renovation

The Meshberg Group team was once again named as an Interior Design Magazine NYC X DESIGN Award finalist. In 2022, we were honored in the Kitchen + Bath category for our renovation of this Upper East Side private townhouse.

When Meshberg Group was tapped to gut renovate the circa 1899 townhouse at 413 E 50th Street, it had already gone through a few iterations. The exterior, parlor entry and stoop had been altered from the stately original. The interior consisted of a series of small dark rooms; the style was a dated blend of the first 75 years of its existence.

With a reputation for blending past architectural elements with contemporary methods, Meshberg Group was tasked by the Japanese developer to transform the residence into a modern urban oasis. Inspired by Japanese design, the project strikes a balance with the traditional while integrating clean modern lines, high function and the finest details both inside and out.

The dramatic transformation begins with the exterior. With a nod to its neighborhood, the exterior is both a mix of the modern and a celebration of its past. The deteriorated front facade was streamlined and redesigned in a modern dark gray finish. The original brownstone stoop and arched front door were brought back, setting the stage for an understated, grand entry. The entry foyer continues the contemporary palette with a geometric marble floor.

With a focus on natural light and a sense of tranquility, the parlor level is designed as the heart of the home. The dark rooms were removed and the space was opened up, creating an expansive, airy feeling. The bulky stairs were gutted and replaced with clean lines of steel and oak.

Throughout the parlor level, minimal elements are thoughtfully celebrated. The layout is designed to elevate modern life with a focus on maximum function. At its center is the large concealed kitchen with duo-toned custom cabinetry combining Japanese inspired ribbed oak panels juxtaposed with light gray cabinets. Appliances are hidden; their seamless installation enhances a visual sense of order and allows the kitchen to blend with the rest of the space. The marble backsplash and countertop add to the mix of natural materials while the large modern island anchors the space accented with asymmetrical ribbed wood panels.

The living area at the rear was remade to bring the outdoors in with a single large oversized picture window and full glass door leading to the redesigned terrace. The effect is expansive and serene, while natural light floods the space. A wall of hidden storage behind flush panels creates visual continuity from the kitchen and is punctuated by a contemporary blackened steel fireplace.  Minimal millwork, flush doors and step lighting flow from the parlor throughout the home continuing the clean aesthetic and sense of order.

In the baths, handpicked marble, California faucets fixtures, custom oak vanities and large soaking tubs set the tranquil tone. A marble vanity floats on a wall of fluted marble in the powder room. In the spa inspired primary bath, natural light soaks the space through three large windows. Marble tiles and a marble mosaic floor envelop the room, while a custom white oak and marble double vanity anchor it.

The minimal aesthetic continues in the rear of the home, where the repointed brickwork was finished in a striking black. To one side, a custom wood and steel staircase provides outdoor access from above, as well as unfettered views and light to enter the garden level’s new oversized window and double glass doors.