New York studio The New Design Project has paired mid-century and contemporary furniture at this Midtown Manhattan apartment, and added pops of colour across the neutral interior.

The apartment, named Fresh and Serene on Park Avenue South, was renovated for a young client. The designers wanted the space to reflect both the location and the tenant's lifestyle.

"We wanted to create a space that felt refined and elegant but still young and urban," The New Design Project told Dezeen. "Our goal was to create a space that was impactful without trying too hard."

The designers balanced a colour scheme of grey and beige with dark accents and blue tones.

In the living room, a white Casa sofa from Camerich and light beige armchairs are placed on the Blue Diego Rug by Eskayel. Lit from behind by large windows and white walls, the furnishings were chosen to evoke a sense of calm.

The studio made a black and brass wall unit, and a large abstract artwork on an adjacent wall – creating a bold statement against of the rest of the lounge.

"We believe the colour palette and choice of materials lend a fresh and serene feel to the space, despite the odd bold accent and the location of the property on a busy avenue in Midtown Manhattan," said the studio.

Adding to contrasts across the interior, different styles of furniture are used together. Mid-century-style chairs stand alongside contemporary furnishings, like the designers' custom made marble and black oak nightstands in the bedroom, and floating upholstered bench in the dining room.

"We always try and incorporate several different styles in to our designs because we find it adds depth and interest to a space," The New Design project said. "This layering of styles tends to be through the use of different colours, tones and textures, rather than patterns."

Instead of modifying the layout of the spaces, the studio used lighting to draw attention to structural aspects of the space already present.

"The apartment was already in good condition, but we sought to emphasise the architectural details, such as specifying sculptural lighting throughout to emphasise the high ceilings and add drama," said the designers.

The Lariat 3 pendant lamp by Apparatus hangs loosely from the lounge ceiling, while chandeliers based on Lindsey Adelman's designs are suspended in the dining room and master bedroom.

The renovation is intended as a thoughtful and cosy design that can adapt to the lifestyle of its young tenant.

"The client wanted us to create a home that felt warm and considered, without feeling overly 'designed'," the studio said. "Ultimately, this client was looking for a beautiful home for her to enjoy and not necessarily to show off with."

Other recently completed Manhattan apartments range from a grand penthouse at Rafael Viñoly's 432 Park Avenue skyscraper, which received a makeover from Kelly Behun, to a compact Uptown flat featuring slide-out furniture.

Photography is by Alan Gastelum.