- Interior
GRT Architects, founded in 2014 in Brooklyn, is known for designs that blend aesthetics with technical precision. Their projects range from historic renovations to product design and collaborations with artists and community initiatives. The firm takes an active role in the construction process, experimenting with materials and often creating custom prototypes. Their work has been realized by renowned brands.
For the renovation of an apartment in Onyx Court, a historic building from 1902 in the East Village, the architectural firm restructured the space while respecting its original character. The six-story building, designed by Harde & Short, is known for its rich details and was once home to artists and musicians. The existing layout was completely reconsidered to achieve a more logical use of space. A central corridor with decorative parquet serves as the apartment's backbone. By straightening the corridor, a clear sightline was created from the front door to an east-facing window. A shallow arched opening in the load-bearing wall emphasizes this axis. The corridor plays with the building's irregular character through asymmetrical niches and rounded doorways in thick plaster walls. 
Oak wood and mosaic tiles connect traditional and contemporary elements
The kitchen, originally in an unfavorable location, was relocated to a brighter area, making it possible to create three distinct yet connected rooms: kitchen, dining room, and living room. Functional elements such as a low cabinet on brass legs and a floating storage unit provide subtle separation without sacrificing openness. White oak cabinets, mosaic tiles, and white countertops create a balanced blend of aesthetics and functionality. The living room is defined by a herringbone threshold and a custom-built wall with integrated shelving. A sliding panel conceals the television, while a frosted glass element with a wooden handle allows light into an adjacent office without compromising privacy.
The former kitchen was transformed into a spacious bedroom with an ensuite bathroom. A newly designed corridor provides a smooth transition between the bedroom and bathroom while ensuring extra privacy. Custom-built closets, including one repurposed from an old dumbwaiter shaft, maximize storage space. The bathroom combines warm materials like oak with mosaic tiles in various textures. 
A compact guest room also serves as an office, thanks to a fold-down bed. Despite the limited space, an additional guest toilet was added by optimizing circulation areas. With this renovation, GRT Architects successfully merged contemporary living needs with a deep respect for the rich architectural heritage of Onyx Court.
Photography by Nicole Franzen
Text by Ine Simons