Steeped in historical context, this Chelsea residence by McGovern Project pays homage to Artists' Lofts of the former Manhattan.

As glass and steel continue to pierce the sky, a growing number of homeowners are trading tower residences for older buildings modest in story ? homes akin to the artists? lofts that made New York City a cultural epicenter during the second half of the 20th century. One such case study is this post-industrial-style apartment, situated in a 1920s prewar co-op building in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan, by full-service interior design firm McGovern Project. Exposed timber columns with cast iron capitals, high ceilings, and generous lighting endear the memory of early industrial day-lit structures within this newly renovated space crafted for a couple deeply devoted to city living.
A key-locked elevator opens up to a gallery-like floor plan with 10-foot ceilings that flood the room with plenty of light from the north, south, and east exposures ? a notable feature capitalized upon to showcase the homeowners? art collection and pay homage to the artistic talent once prolific in the contiguous neighborhoods. ?The allure of a loft’s blank canvas layout and expansive living area captivated Mateo and Francesca. Their vision was to preserve the space?s original architectural charm while integrating modern conveniences and eschewing outdated features,? says interior designer Chris McGovern, who oversaw all aspects of the interior ar...