News & Insights

New York City’s brownstones are brimming with architectural character, but those historic layouts weren’t exactly designed for modern lifestyles. Narrow halls, compartmentalized rooms, limited natural light, and – usually – a history of here-and-there renovations can make even a beautiful Brooklyn or Manhattan brownstone feel surprisingly awkward to live in. A thoughtful brownstone layout redesign […]

There’s something undeniably magnetic about a Manhattan Classic Six apartment. Grand proportions, gracious layouts, and traditional craftsmanship give these homes a sense of permanence that some modern construction struggles to replicate.  While formal dining rooms and enclosed kitchens might suit some homeowners, others seek transformation for their prewar homes. A modern renovation often calls for […]

Love your Manhattan neighborhood, but hate how tiny your floorplan is? For some NYC homeowners, dreaming of more space doesn’t necessarily mean you need to leave the area you love. Instead, you might be able to purchase one of your neighboring units and merge the two apartments into a single, expansive home for yourself. Apartment […]

The most successful construction projects share something that has nothing to do with budget size or design complexity: they feel like a team sport. Everyone—client, architect, contractor—works toward a common vision with mutual respect and shared goals. When you experience this kind of collaboration, the process feels almost effortless, even when challenges arise. Unfortunately, that’s […]

You may have heard the term “white-glove” before, but probably never in architecture. White-glove service is often utilized to describe high-end services such as luxury sports car delivery or personalized courier services, but it can also apply to architecture and construction. For us, white-glove service defines the way we create homes for discerning clients in […]

Embarking on a luxury condo gut renovation is like preparing to climb a mountain. The journey will be both challenging and incredibly rewarding, but success depends entirely on proper preparation and realistic expectations. When you’re properly equipped for the ascent, you’ll find yourself enjoying the views along the way. Venture forth under-provisioned and every step […]

I recently had the pleasure of participating in Design Dialogues, Fublis Magazine’s series highlighting visionaries shaping the built environment. The conversation gave me a chance to reflect on K—DA’s design philosophy and share insights from recent projects. We covered a range of topics including our approach to creating timeless spaces that adapt to changing client […]

New York City’s architectural landscape is diverse, from the towering skyscrapers of midtown to the industrial lofts of Tribeca to the pre-war apartment buildings of the upper east side. However, the townhouse lined blocks of neighborhoods like Chelsea, the West Village, and Brooklyn Heights stand as icons of city living. These facades are a critical […]

The prototypical NYC townhouse is 20 feet wide and between 40 and 60 feet long. While these specific measurements vary, unless you luck into a corner lot, the only sources of natural light in your home may be the front and back, leaving a dearth of sunlight in the middle of your home throughout the […]

Renovating a Brooklyn townhouse is a significant undertaking. It’s a complex process, often expensive, and can feel overwhelming. But, with the right team and a clear plan, you can create a truly bespoke home in one of the world’s most vibrant cities. Below are the considerations that should be taken into account when planning your […]