Grand St | Kitchen & Bath Refresh
This Lower East Side NYC renovation is a grand example of how thoughtful design and expert craftsmanship can completely redefine compact urban living. With careful planning and a blend of timeless materials and modern finishes, the transformation of both the bathroom and kitchen brings a sense of elegance, comfort, and everyday luxury to this stylish downtown home. In the bathroom, the renovation embraces transitional style, achieving a delicate balance between traditional charm and contemporary appeal. A wainscoting-inspired tile design in the shower area creates visual texture and a subtle architectural nod to classic detailing. This is paired with a modern stacked layout of crisp white subway wall tiles, producing a fresh, clean, and airy backdrop. The glossy black penny round tile flooring adds rich contrast and a hint of vintage glamour—tying in perfectly with the black matte plumbing fixtures and accessories throughout the space. The custom shower accent wall, designed to echo the warm wood tones of the floating vanity, brings cohesion and depth to the bathroom. This thoughtful design element connects function with aesthetics and helps establish a warm, calming palette. It’s these layered, intentional details that give the bathroom its grand feel—despite the modest square footage typical of Lower East Side homes. Functionality was just as important as visual appeal in this renovation. Storage and layout were optimized without sacrificing design, resulting in a space that feels open and uncluttered. Whether it's getting ready in the morning or unwinding at night, the new bathroom provides a grand user experience in every sense—comfort, style, and efficiency. The kitchen renovation continues the theme of understated luxury with a beautifully designed space that blends sophistication and practicality. The two-tone cabinetry—deep blue base cabinets paired with classic white uppers—offers timeless visual contrast while enhancing the sense of depth in the room. These custom SRNY shaker cabinets provide ample storage while adding a tailored, elegant aesthetic that feels both grounded and grand. Quartz countertops line the kitchen workspaces, offering a durable surface that’s as functional as it is refined. These counters also help frame the space, pulling together the cabinetry and backsplash. Speaking of backsplashes, a glossy white subway tile from TileBar was chosen for its reflective qualities and clean design. This surface catches the light beautifully, opening up the kitchen and giving it an inviting brightness throughout the day. High-performance Café stainless steel appliances blend seamlessly into the layout, lending a sleek and professional feel to the space. These appliances were selected not only for their look but also for their superior performance—ideal for an NYC kitchen that needs to work hard without sacrificing design. Polished brass hardware was chosen to punctuate the cabinetry with a pop of warmth and luxury, delivering that final grand touch. Every finish, fixture, and layout decision in this renovation was guided by the desire to create a space that feels grand in experience, even within a smaller New York City footprint. From the elegant tilework in the bathroom to the stylish kitchen palette and premium material selection, this renovation exemplifies how well-considered design can deliver a sense of timelessness and sophistication. Whether you're looking for inspiration or evaluating your own renovation goals, this Lower East Side transformation proves that a grand, beautiful result is always possible with the right vision, team, and attention to detail.
Designer:
Mary Kate D
Location:
Lower East Side Manhattan
Designer:
Mary Kate D
Project Budget:
100K - 150K
Project Client Testimonial:
“Eli and the Star team did a wonderful job on my kitchen and bathroom—so many oohs and aahs! Both projects were completed early, and the experience was smooth, as Eli handled all of the paperwork and interacted with my co-op management. The daily photos and constant availability put my mind at ease as I had to relocate during the work. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them! ”
the journey
Materials Used:
- Tiles – TileBar NYC
- Plumbing fixtures – Kohler matte black
- Kitchen cabinets – Semi-Custom two tone white and blue
- Countertop and island stone – Caesar Stone White Attica
- Appliances (stove, refrigerator) – Cafe