A UWS Prewar Kitchen Renovation
6 W 77th St, NYC
Project Overview
TYPE: Full-service design build gut renovation of the Kitchen, Living Room, and Dining Room in this Prewar Manhattan Co-op.
LOCATION: Upper West Side, Manhattan, Residential NYC
CONSTRUCTION DURATION: 3 months
The Full Story Behind this Prewar Open-Plan Kitchen and Living Space Renovation:
This gut renovation by Paula McDonald Design Build & Interiors transformed a dated Prewar apartment into a modern open-plan living space. The project began with a major kitchen overhaul, which required DOB permits, Landmark approvals, a vented hood, and relocation of the gas range. These elements added complexity to the timeline, especially with a strict move-in deadline before the start of school.
The renovation addressed immovable gas lines and plumbing while expanding the kitchen layout to accommodate family life. The seated peninsula perfectly fits the way the kids use the space, and new built-ins span a 25-foot window wall. Additional built-ins were added for the reading nook off the dining room. Recessed lighting was retrofitted with new housing and dimmable LED lights, creating a functional and bright environment.
This project highlights our expertise in co-ops, condos, lofts, and townhomes throughout Manhattan and NYC, integrating Prewar and Post-War architectural details while providing a seamless modern design. The open-plan layout was key to managing the busy schedules of three teenagers, making daily life more functional and enjoyable.
Key Renovation Highlights:
Comprehensive kitchen renovation addressing fixed gas lines and pipes
Expanded layout with a seated peninsula for family living
Built-in countertops along a 25-foot window wall
Custom reading nook off the dining room with built-in storage
Retrofitted recessed lighting with dimmable LEDs
Thoughtful integration of prewar and post-war architectural elements
Full construction, restoration, and design build expertise applied throughout
Project Result: Open-Plan Living Transformation
The kitchen, living room, and dining area now form a bright, functional, and modern open-plan space. Built-ins, lighting, and smart layout decisions create a home that balances style and practicality. The transformation reflects Paula McDonald Design Build & Interiors commitment to full-service design build, making life easier and more enjoyable for the entire family.
More Prewar Reno Before & Afters, Walkthrough Videos: We Renovate Co-ops, Condos, Townhomes, and More
For those of you who love the ups and downs of renovation transformations, don’t miss Paula McDonald Design Build & Interiors prewar and post-war project playlists featuring before-and-after videos of some of our most challenging Prewar and Post-War apartment renovations, as well as full walkthrough videos highlighting the open-plan design, kitchen build, and living space transformation.
If you love this Manhattan Kitchen and Living Space Renovation as much as we do, and you’re ready to transform your home, contact Paula McDonald Design Build & Interiors today! Paula McDonald is proud to offer full-service design build solutions that handle every detail — from concept through final construction and restoration.