Forbes
Projects
Lantern House
Making an Icon a Home
From the moment Thomas Heatherwick and Heatherwick Studio conceived of the design for Lantern House’s modern bay windows, the Related Companies project was destined to become one of the city’s most notable residential buildings. The challenge would be to translate the eye-catching exterior into an aesthetically aligned, comfortable interior. As Heatherwick himself said, “The design for Lantern House came from looking at the city’s existing buildings and thinking about which one you might want to live in, not just look at.”
Enter MAWD, which used its Experience-Centric Design process to design an interior that complemented both Heatherwick’s vision and the residents’ lifestyles.
The interiors are designed by March and White Design, which aimed to create modern rooms that nevertheless recall the handcraftsmanship and rich materiality of the past.
It Starts with the Experience
Beginning with in-depth audience research, the team then created mood boards with inspiring images and materials based on the project’s context. They studied the building’s architecture and setting on the High Line, knowing it would be critical to ensuring a cohesive relationship between the interior and exterior.
In keeping with the building's ethos of prioritizing quality craftsmanship, every detail of the interiors, from floor to ceiling, was considered and precisely placed. This balance between elegance and utility resulted in fresh, radiant spaces that channel a voluptuous tranquility through texture, surface, and depth.
“We started with something incredible,” said Elliot March, MAWD co-founder. “We were stunned by Thomas Heatherwick’s approach to the architecture, which was subtle and beautiful. The High Line cast a gentle, organic fluidity to the familiar industrial glazing.”
Designed from the inside, out
The residences themselves are defined by soaring, dramatic bay windows that illuminate elegant yet relaxed interiors. The radiant, loft-like spaces pair heritage brick and bronze materials with stone, marble, and the warm patina of oak. In the kitchens, fluting detail unites the wood and glass cabinetry, providing dimension, and clean lines are reflected throughout the space.
The result is a layered richness that feels harmonious and cohesive.
What you see is where you live
As designed by MAWD, the residences feature high-end details that enhance the focal point: the signature three-dimensional corner bay windows with panoramic views.
Authentic High Line Living
The interiors, which were driven by authentic materials, clever details and smart programming, are designed to transform from day to night. Timeless yet playful, luxurious yet comfortable and familiar, they reflected the integrated lifestyle of a West Chelsea resident – amenity spaces can be used for work, events, wellness and entertainment.
Residents will have access to premier services from a dedicated team of experienced professionals, who offer as much or as little service as desired.
The team at MAWD said they tapped into their experience designing private members clubs in Europe, to create spaces that easily transform from day to night and are intended to be used for both work and play.
Day-to-Night Amenities
The intimate yet sophisticated private dining room and adjoining lounge are designed for maximum flexibility, and the amenities space to feel like an extension of the home.
