Improve Your Interior Life
325 words · 2 min readYears ago, we collaborated with designers Paul and Sophie Yanacopoulos-Gross to transform our New York City apartment into a sanctuary of contemplation and tranquility. Amidst this transformation, my role leaned more towards that of a project manager, closely observing and learning from the creative processes of Paul and Sophie. Our ideas were not inspired by Eastern philosophies or a deliberate spiritual design method; instead, they emerged from our pull to Paul and Sophie's minimalist style and an inherent desire to escape the city when at home.
Initially focusing on cosmetic changes, we first moved a door to create a series of windows along the apartment's length and incorporated proportionally heightened doors that extend toward the 12-foot ceiling, thereby bringing in lots of natural light from all angles. We then soundproofed and shielded the apartment from the city to muffle external noise, providing a peaceful respite amidst the bustling areas of Brooklyn Bridge and Dumbo, a neighborhood increasingly recognized as one of the city's busiest.
Paul and Sophie re-tuned the ambiance in both refined and unrefined ways, designing built-ins with both a brut and minimalist approach, and painting the walls and ceiling to create a monochromatic refuge. We intentionally left some areas unfurnished, which seemed to stretch time, making it feel more expansive and reflective. This redesign not only served as a retreat from daily work but also fostered immediate and profound tranquility.
Living in this apartment profoundly shaped my understanding of the importance of interiors that resonate with our innermost being. The influx of light, softened ambiance, and serene environment prepared our minds for deep reflection and steadiness. It taught me how personal environments can influence self-conception, facilitate the relinquishment of self-imposed and societal constraints, and ultimately shape our presence in the world. The self we manifest outwardly often reflects the persona we nurture in the solitude of our homes.
