NYC Living: The Contemporary House of Rafael de Cárdenas

In Greenwich Village NYC, we find this bold, contemporary home belonging to Rafael de Cárdenas, founder of the study “Architecture at Large” and top interior designer.

The sophisticated interiors were designed, undoubtedly, by himself. The modern apartment brings back the elegance of the 80’s, with nude domination and a meticulous eye for details, finishes, furniture, and design. The neutral shades mean a lot to Rafael. It is the colour of his childhood. “It is the colour that reigned in the movies at that time,” he says.

This is the reason why this contemporary apartment in Greenwich Village in New York is monochromatic. But, thanks to the smallest design details observed around every corner, the interiors are far from boring. On the contrary, they are as full of life as a techni-colour house.

“I did not want to leave them neutral, but rather create variations on different materials. This colour can bring a lot of movement and sensuality, “says the author and resident, pointing to the textured ceiling of the room.

“These references emerged naturally,” he says, assuming himself once again a good son of the 1980s.

We love the overall look with splashes of colour in interesting spaces, such as the landing above the staircase where a bold print adds contrast against neutral wood panelling. A metallic stair-rail brings a glamorous touch here too.

Stylish herringbone floors further add definition throughout this abode.