The gut renovation of a 19th century New York townhouse afforded Mark Zeff the opportunity to reinvent the concept of an urban, single-family home. Rear windows were greatly enlarged and ceilings covered in Venetian plaster to welcome in and amplify available light. (Street-facing windows were limited by landmark regulations.) Furniture is pared down to a clutter-free minimum for the relatively small rooms. The palette is bright and neutral to keep spaces open and airy.

In the master bedroom, the cotton velvet headboard provides a tailored foundation upon which cleanly-upholstered, subtly-curvy furniture builds. Colorful and decorative pillows provide visual texture (not to mention a cozy place to lay one’s weary head.)