A Custom Loft Transformation Inside Historic Tudor City

Editor

Sander Hicks

Category

Loft Bed

Date

December 8, 2025

In the heart of historic Tudor City, Phil needed a smarter, more functional bedroom layout for his growing family. We designed a custom loft and built-in storage system that transforms a compact space while preserving the charm of this classic New York landmark.

Tudor City is one of New York’s most iconic residential enclaves—an early skyscraper community built in the late 1920s and widely considered the world’s first high-rise residential development. Perched above Midtown’s bustle on a quiet elevated perch, the complex was designed as an urban retreat, complete with private parks, neo-Gothic façades, leaded-glass windows, and a unique blend of old-world charm and modern city living. Its Tudor Revival architecture—steep gables, decorative brickwork, handcrafted details—gives the neighborhood a timeless character that stands apart from Manhattan’s steel and glass.

Tudor City

When Phil, a resident of 5 Tudor City Place, reached out to us about redesigning his son’s compact bedroom, we immediately saw the potential to create something that honored both the family’s needs and the building’s historic character.

Designing for a Historic Space

Phil was looking for a space that would support his growing son—a place to sleep comfortably, play safely, and stay organized—all within the limits of a classic NYC bedroom. Tudor City rooms have their own charm and challenges: tall ceilings, deep window casings, and compact layouts shaped by nearly a century of architectural history.

5 Tudor City Place

Our goal was to maximize the room’s function while complementing the building’s materials and proportions.

The Custom Loft Solution

We created a floating loft bed system crafted in walnut and birch, designed to feel modern yet harmonious with the apartment’s architectural character. Key elements include:

Floating Loft Bed

A clean, panel-wrapped structure with warm wood tones and subtle vent cutouts for airflow and visual rhythm.

Integrated Lighting

Recessed LED puck lights transform the area beneath the loft into a bright workspace and play zone, with dimmers for nighttime winding down.

Storage Staircase

A Zen Space Makers signature:

  • Child-sized, sturdy steps
  • Built-in cubbies
  • Deep drawers
  • A safety railing that maintains the open feel of the room

Custom Cabinetry & Window Bench

We added a tall cabinet with glass-paneled doors, multiple drawers, and a long under-window storage bench—keeping the room tidy while preserving light and openness.

Craftsmanship for Compact Living

All components were built in our Brooklyn workshop for precision and quality control, then installed with care to meet Tudor City’s historic standards. The finished room feels brighter, more spacious, and truly accommodating for family life.

Working within a building like Tudor City is always a privilege—and designing for a child makes it even more meaningful.

Zen Space Makers: Crafting Calm, One Room at a Time

If you're living in a historic Manhattan building—or simply a compact NYC apartment—and want to transform your space with thoughtful custom design, we’d love to help.

Let’s build something beautiful together!