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Interior | Residential & Houses

The Jewel Box

Messana O'Rorke



Project description

The clients, a couple with no children, wanted a pied-ŕ-terre evoking a room at a boutique hotel, albeit with a hidden bedroom and ample space to accommodate cooking and entertaining. Our goal was to maximize the physical and atmospheric size of the apartment by designing multiple spaces that fit efficiently into an organized structure, creating the illusion of a larger space. We found inspiration in everyday objects that are similarly simultaneously beautiful and efficient: jewelry boxes, steamer trunks and even RVs. Oak plank flooring was used to create a calm and cohesive space. Custom oak-faced storage was installed along the North and South walls. The northern storage unit contains books, clothing, and a television; the southern unit conceals the entire kitchen. The bed “container,” clad in unlacquered brass, was inserted into the space creating an entry and a hallway. The inside is lined in grey cowhide; the base of the bed is raised, creating additional storage underneath. A custom oak table in the living area, spans the length of the window, acting as both a “front porch” as well as a desk that can be reconfigured as a dining table when entertaining guests.


Project details
Location:New York, United States
Studio NameMessana O'Rorke
Lead designerBrian Messana and Toby O'Rorke
Design teamViktor Nassli and Juan Espinosa
Photography creditsEric Laignel
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