Chelsea’s vibrancy stems from its dynamic mix of art, architecture, and atmosphere, one of the few New York neighborhoods where historic industrial character meets cutting-edge creativity. This townhouse perfectly embodies that. Originally a Single Room Occupancy (SRO) building divided into several small rooms per floor, it has been meticulously reimagined into an elegant single-family residence that reflects Chelsea’s signature blend of history, innovation, and sophisticated design. For most buyers, it would have been hard to imagine the potential of this space as a luxurious single-family home; the current owner, however, had a vision.
With guidance from architect Drew Lang of Lang Architecture, the owners took a leap of faith, investing both time and resources into a process that promised great reward: a home perfectly tailored to their family’s needs, while dramatically increasing the property’s value.
“The owner relied on us to transform the house,” says Drew. “They entered a risky process to create the family home they wanted, and the results speak for themselves.”
Expansive Feel in a Narrower Footprint
Although townhouse buyers often focus on width, this property proves that thoughtful design can make even a narrower home feel open and generous. Drew explains that most front and rear rooms are full width and generously proportioned, with enlarged rear windows and a central stair that fluidly connects all spaces. These design choices give the home a sense of scale far beyond its actual dimensions. The depth of this home is 62 feet. That is extraordinarily deep which allows no room to feel compromised. Coupled with the gracious ceiling heights, this layout proves perfect.
Smart Design Meets Modern Comfort
Integrating modern amenities like an elevator was seamless despite misconceptions about narrow townhouses. Drew notes that depth, not width, is the key factor: the careful planning allowed the home to accommodate an elevator without compromising space or flow. Natural light floods the interior with surrounding low-rise buildings on all sides. Steel windows with thin profiles at the rear maximize openness and bring the outdoors inside, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere throughout.
A Staircase That Feels Effortless
The staircase, often a challenging feature in townhouses, was designed to feel airy and fluid rather than vertical or cramped. Soft curves, winders at the ends, and delicate metal spindles ensure it connects all levels gracefully while letting light filter through.
Thoughtful Interiors
Drew and his team designed the architectural interiors and finishes, creating a sophisticated, understated palette that highlights the home’s materials and craftsmanship. While furniture selection was handled separately, the interiors reflect a cohesive vision that balances elegance with everyday livability.
The Challenge and the Reward
Every transformation comes with its hurdles but with vision, trust, and expert design guidance, what was once a fragmented SRO has been reborn as a single-family townhouse that feels expansive, luminous, and perfectly suited to modern city living.
This home is proof that with the right combination of imagination and design expertise, even the most unlikely spaces can be transformed into something extraordinary.