Harlem Townhouse [Passive House]
preserving history, enhancing sustainability,
and elevating urban living
Townhouse Gut Renovation in Harlem, New York
WAKE led the full gut renovation of a historic New York City townhouse, transforming it into a highly personalized and future-ready home while preserving its architectural heritage. This project harmonizes modern functionality with the timeless character of the original structure, ensuring it meets contemporary living standards without compromising its historical integrity.
A bold and expressive design approach reflects the client’s love for color, with carefully curated color-drenched and color-blocked rooms adding vibrancy and depth. Materiality plays a defining role in shaping the home’s character, with rich applications of stone, terracotta, and terrazzo bringing warmth, texture, and sophistication to every space.
Functionality and accessibility were key priorities, leading to the seamless integration of a four-story elevator to accommodate aging in place and enhance ease of movement throughout the home. The project also required approval from the Landmarks Preservation Commission for a full rear and rooftop addition, ensuring that all modifications honored the townhouse’s historic context while allowing for modern expansion.
Beyond aesthetics and functionality, sustainability was a core consideration. The renovation minimized environmental impact by preserving existing structures, reducing construction waste, and incorporating energy-efficient upgrades such as improved insulation, high-performance windows, and modern HVAC systems. These enhancements contribute to a more sustainable and energy-conscious home.
By striking a thoughtful balance between preservation and innovation, WAKE has redefined this townhouse as a timeless yet contemporary residence—one that respects the past, embraces the future, and fully reflects the character and lifestyle of its owner.
ELEVATOR HOUSE
Typology: Townhouse Renovation: Single Family Residence, Passive House
Location: New York, NY
Year: 2024-2025
Status: Ongoing
Size: 6,400 SF
Client: Private
Collaborators: Private
Design Team: Nathan E. Minett RA, Kevin Atkinson, Myat Khine, Xiaoxuan Hu, Kenneth Namkung, Jigz Miranda, Fil Hechanova
the enduring value of sustainable renovation
Sustainability, Economy, and Cultural Preservation
Environmentally, renovation is significantly less disruptive than demolition and new construction. It reduces landfill waste and the demand for new building materials, decreasing carbon emissions associated with manufacturing and transportation. Moreover, retrofitting these structures with energy-efficient upgrades such as improved insulation, modern heating systems, and solar panels enhances their sustainability and reduces overall energy consumption. By preserving the building’s original framework, renovations also limit the energy-intensive processes involved in new construction, such as excavation, concrete production, and steel fabrication. Additionally, adaptive reuse strategies help extend the lifespan of existing materials, further minimizing environmental impact while maintaining the character of historic urban fabric.
Economically, renovations stimulate local economies through employment in construction, architecture, and design sectors, often at a lower cost than new developments. Skilled tradespeople, artisans, and craftsmen play a crucial role in restoring intricate details, fostering a market for traditional building techniques and materials. Moreover, maintaining existing structures can stabilize neighborhoods and preserve property values by retaining the area's original charm and appeal. Thoughtful renovations also encourage long-term investment in communities, attracting homeowners and businesses that value both modern convenience and historic character.
In summary, the project to renovate NYC’s townhouses aligns with broader sustainability goals, cultural preservation, and economic stability, making it a beneficial alternative to new developments. It not only safeguards architectural heritage but also promotes a more responsible and resource-efficient approach to urban living, reinforcing the value of thoughtful, well-executed design.
