Elegance, history and simplicity are reflected inside an out in this stunning restoration by Marsella + Knoetgen, the Westchester-based architectural, interior design and planning firm.
   Located in the Landmarks District on Manhattan's Upper West Side, the brownstone, a Renaissance revival-style row house built in 1891, was converted to tenant apartments, during the 1930s. The original character of the building was seriously compromised during the conversion with most of the original moldings and brownstone stoop removed.
   The clients, a young professional couple, wanted multiple tenant apartments converted into one apartment to include a separate, private entrance, access to the rear garden, loft-like space with an open, contemporary feel to showcase their growing art collection.
   Marsella + Knoetgen carefully researched and used 1930 tax photos to restore the building to its original design to meet stringent Landmark Commissioner stipulations. The firm recreated the stoop to resemble the original, including the Celtic bas relief touch in front.
   One fluid space encompasses the dining kitchen and living areas with a simple, neutral wall treatment to highlight the custom kitchen island, its vertical stainless steel and etched glass screen wall fronted with curved maple. The edges of the living room's ceiling are recessed to give a floating effect.
   Marsella + Knoetgen's historic restorations, custom designed homes and apartments as well as professional and corporate offices, show an appreciation of the design process and the collaborative effort between client and architect. The firm's ability to design, plan and decorate is an advantage in defining, retaining and executing clients' specific needs.
   

Historic Renovation
1. Original windows left intact and unadorned for maximum light; chandelier is custom designed. 2. Exterior of brownstone with recreated stoop restored original form 1930 tax record photos. 3. Powder room with frosted glass panels. 4. The kitchen island, an interaction of vertical stainless steel, etched glass, granite countertop and curved maple cabinetry.