ODA New York: 10 Hubert Street
Located on Hubert Street in TriBeCa, this 1892 building has been converted into a luxury penthouse residence by ODA New York whilst restoring many of its original features.
When we picture a grand New York City penthouse, many of us will often place them at the top of a luxurious new development in a skyscraper taller than the next. With 10 Hubert Street, a project completed by ODA New York, this could not be further from the truth. Situated on a picturesque cobblestone street in TriBeCa, this 1892 building has been restored to its former glory with the addition of some contemporary internal upgrades to set the standard for luxury living.
As a conservation project, the goal behind 10 Hubert Street was to return the space to its original design, whilst channelling TriBeCa’s unique atmosphere. Internally, the exposed brick walls remained intact however, much of the building had been left dilapidated and unloved with little reference to its past. In the main living area, the most noticeable new feature is the steel and glass gallery level that visually divides the double-height space whilst not detracting from the original character of the space. This additional level has created a library space with floor to ceiling wooden bookshelves that compliment the exposed wooden beams above.
The colour palette and finishes have been kept to a minimum, allowing the fabric of the building to tell its own story. Reclaimed exposed timber beams can be seen throughout, adding a warming touch to each space. On the two lower floors the original exposed red brick adds a soft touch of colour, contrasting to the new darker materials used such as the black steel and off grey woods.
The new addition top floor had to be set back and out of view from the streets below, not to interfere with the original design of the structure. There are noticeable design changes in this new space, exchanging red exposed brickwork for clean white walls with large floor to ceiling industrial windows that run the entirety of one side, giving access to the roof terrace and impressive views of the iconic World Trade Center development.
Photography: Frank Oudeman
It is so beautiful to see a design that embraces the history and charm of its containing structure. Nothing feels forced about this project and whilst the designs are predominantly contemporary, there is also a timeless grace that impress visitors from the moment they step into the building. In a time where many architects and designers are pushing boundaries, desperately trying to attract attention, ODA has let the building take centre stage, creating work that is far superior to those that surround it.
