![Tribeca Townhouse by YUN Architecture](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2018/04/tribeca-townhouse-yun-architecture-interiors-renovations-new-york-city-usa_dezeen_2364_hero-852x479.jpg)
Yun Architecture refurbishes historic Tribeca townhouse
New York studio Yun Architecture has brought a landmarked federal-style townhouse in Manhattan's Tribeca neighbourhood back to life.
The Tribeca Townhouse was built in 1828, in the area that was home to the Washington Street Market until the late 1960s.
![Tribeca Townhouse by YUN Architecture](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2018/04/tribeca-townhouse-yun-architecture-interiors-renovations-new-york-city-usa_dezeen_2364_col_0.jpg)
Used as an egg and poultry distributor for much of its history, the house is one of nine that were saved by the city's Landmarks Preservation Society, and now-defunct Housing and Development Administration, when the market was redeveloped.
![Tribeca Townhouse by YUN Architecture](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2018/04/tribeca-townhouse-yun-architecture-interiors-renovations-new-york-city-usa_dezeen_2364_col_2.jpg)
"The nine houses were given individual landmark status for their uniqueness as a group of intact houses characteristic of late 18th-century scale and profile which did not exist anywhere else in Manhattan," said architect Susan Yun.
![Tribeca Townhouse by YUN Architecture](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2018/04/tribeca-townhouse-yun-architecture-interiors-renovations-new-york-city-usa_dezeen_2364_col_1.jpg)
However this home had fallen into disrepair despite its earlier renovation, so her firm Yun Architecture was asked by the artist couple owners to refurbish and update it while retaining some of the historic character.
![Tribeca Townhouse by YUN Architecture](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2018/04/tribeca-townhouse-yun-architecture-interiors-renovations-new-york-city-usa_dezeen_2364_col_5.jpg)
On the exterior, new windows, dormers and wood frames were added in keeping with the original architecture.
![Tribeca Townhouse by YUN Architecture](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2018/04/tribeca-townhouse-yun-architecture-interiors-renovations-new-york-city-usa_dezeen_2364_col_8.jpg)
A wooden porch in the backyard, originally deemed illegal, was authorised and rebuilt using cast-iron columns, railings and stone flooring – "keeping within a refined federal style aesthetic".
![Tribeca Townhouse by YUN Architecture](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2018/04/tribeca-townhouse-yun-architecture-interiors-renovations-new-york-city-usa_dezeen_2364_col_9.jpg)
Inside, the main staircase was moved to benefit the open-plan living area at entrance level. A studio, work and exhibition space now occupies the basement, while a library and bedrooms take up the upper floors.
![Tribeca Townhouse by YUN Architecture](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2018/04/tribeca-townhouse-yun-architecture-interiors-renovations-new-york-city-usa_dezeen_2364_col_13.jpg)
For the interior, Yun teamed up with designer Penelope August, who she had previously worked with at Selldorf Architects.
They kept the rooms light and bright, using pale paint to form a backdrop for more colourful furnishings and artworks that create a homely feel.
Salvaged, heart pine floorboards were laid throughout, and the four fireplaces were reactivated and clad with limestone mantles.
The duo also developed a range of custom pieces for the house, including woodwork, marbled porcelain tiles and blown-glass lighting.
![Tribeca Townhouse by YUN Architecture](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2018/04/tribeca-townhouse-yun-architecture-interiors-renovations-new-york-city-usa_dezeen_2364_col_18.jpg)
Terrazzo speckled with colourful recycled glass forms counters and splashbacks in the kitchen, where copper fixtures and faucets are also found.
![Tribeca Townhouse by YUN Architecture](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2018/04/tribeca-townhouse-yun-architecture-interiors-renovations-new-york-city-usa_dezeen_2364_col_24.jpg)
Antique pieces – from doors and sinks to wallpaper – were also used to add hints of the house's period, while retaining a contemporary look.
![Tribeca Townhouse by YUN Architecture](https://static.dezeen.com/uploads/2018/04/tribeca-townhouse-yun-architecture-interiors-renovations-new-york-city-usa_dezeen_2364_col_25.jpg)
The townhouse and its neighbours are unique to Tribeca, which is best known for its spacious loft-style apartments. Many have these have recently been renovated, including two residences converted into one home using a blackened steel staircase and an apartment where walls were swapped for walnut furniture.
Photography is by Devon Banks.
Project credits:
Architect and designer: Susan Yun, Yun Architecture
Interior designer: Penelope August
General contractor: Taconic Builders