In the bustling heart of Manhattan, Tony and Grammy Award-winning actress and singer Patina Miller, alongside her venture capitalist husband David Mars, sought a new residence that transcended their Chelsea loft. Their search was driven by a desire for expansive, sunlit spaces spread across multiple levels and the tranquil embrace of nature nearby. After a year-long quest, they discovered a grand townhouse on the Upper West Side, its historic charm and spacious interiors—featuring original crown moldings, magnificent archways, and a carved staircase from the late 1800s—captivating them instantly.
A Symphony of Style: Crafting a Modern Manhattan Oasis
Working with Josh Evan Goldfarb and Michael Edward Moirano of Evan Edward, a firm they had previously collaborated with, the couple embarked on a thoughtful renovation. Their vision was to blend "high-impact minimalism" with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The primary suite was reimagined by merging smaller rooms into a sprawling retreat, boasting a lavish boudoir for red-carpet preparations, a large soak tub installed by crane, and a writing alcove featuring Miller's crescent-shaped Mezzaluna desk. This personal sanctuary was designed to evoke the chic ambiance of a Parisian apartment, fulfilling Miller's desire for an escape that was both grand and intimate.
The couple ensured their home retained cherished pieces from their previous dwelling, such as a 1950s Sputnik chandelier. A distinctive wall installation of 26 vintage boom boxes, initially met with Miller's skepticism but Mars's enthusiasm, became the centerpiece of their music room—a testament to their shared love for diverse musical genres, from Leonard Bernstein to Notorious B.I.G. Mars’s office features a custom artwork he created with his brother, pop artist Robert Mars, depicting hip-hop legends, adding a personal and artistic touch to his workspace.
Throughout the townhouse, lighting serves as a dramatic design element. Notable fixtures include a ribbon-like Gaetano Sciolari pendant in the entry, an A-N-D Iris pendant in the breakfast room, a 1960s G.C.M.E. ceiling light in Mars’s office, and a conical Carlos Nason “Birillo” floor lamp in the family room. Every detail, from the bleached-walnut Versailles parquet floors to the rich hues of sienna, blush, and aubergine, contributes to a tranquil yet visually stunning environment. Miller emphasized her desire for a home that feels welcoming and unpretentious, where beauty harmonizes seamlessly with functionality, making everyone feel a sense of belonging.
This insightful project highlights the transformative power of interior design, demonstrating how a historic Manhattan townhouse can be meticulously updated to reflect the contemporary tastes and dynamic lifestyles of its inhabitants. It's a reminder that true luxury lies in creating spaces that not only impress visually but also resonate deeply with personal comfort and identity. The collaboration between Patina Miller, David Mars, and Evan Edward proves that even grand designs can foster an intimate and welcoming atmosphere, making a house truly feel like home.