535 West End Avenue: A Stunning Transformation by ALine Studio
Project's Summary
535 West End Avenue, a stunning pre-war style building located in the Upper West Side, has been transformed into a magnificent space by ALine Studio. The renowned architectural studio was commissioned in 2015 to design an upscale, adult-only lounge where residents could host various events. The studio apartment that originally occupied the space was completely renovated, providing a blank canvas for ALine Studio to work their magic.
The conference area in the lounge boasts a faux fireplace made of beautiful bookmatched marble, reminiscent of petrified wood. The exquisite stone is flanked by custom built-in bookcases, creating a balanced and elegant space. Tufted window seats are nestled within the deep window sills, which form the gracefully curved facade of the building. Natural light floods the room, illuminating the custom-made 8-foot wood slab live-edge walnut table, supported by solid brass wishbone-shaped legs. The coved ceilings overhead are adorned with brass, Sputnik-like chandeliers, and champagne leafing, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The floor is adorned with honed Blue Cielo marble and a black marble double border inlay, adding a touch of sophistication to the space.
The sitting area in the lounge is defined by a stunning grey and white marbled cowhide rug from Argentina. Custom lounge chairs upholstered in luxurious blue leather on the inside seat and fuzzy mohair on the outside provide a comfortable and stylish seating option. Leather straps and a contrast welt add intricate details to the chairs, making them even more inviting. A soft leather banquette bench is tucked into a niche, with tufted royal blue velvet upholstered from the floor to the ceiling, creating a striking visual effect. Recessed lighting highlights the sheen and depth of the velvet-covered wall. The addition of bar height tables and the iconic Bertoia wire collection bar chairs offer visitors the perfect space to work or enjoy a cocktail.
Opposite the sitting area is the exquisite bar top, made out of Kenya Black marble. This stunning piece serves as a counter-balance to the faux fireplace, effectively connecting both sides of the room. The monolithic stone face of the bar is downlit, creating a warm and inviting ambiance. Bertoia bar chairs add a touch of metal contrast to the stone. Behind the bar, there is a built-in undercounter beverage refrigerator and a striking nickel sink with a brass faucet. The back bar wall is finished with antiqued mirror tiles laid in a herringbone pattern within a golden glass border, reflecting light and adding depth to the room. Delicate brass cylindrical pendants hang over the Kenya Black bar top, adding a touch of elegance to the space.
The design of the amenity space at 535 West End Avenue was meticulously crafted by ALine Studio, with a focus on mixing metals such as nickel and brass. Every detail was carefully considered, from the tailor-made furnishings to the high-end finishes, furniture, and accessories, creating an atmosphere of unparalleled beauty and luxury. The result is a truly exceptional space that seamlessly blends timeless elegance with modern sophistication.
Read also about the Kirkland Residence: A Modern Blend of Nature & Design project