When a turn-of-the-century rectory meets a modern artist’s vision, magic happens. That’s exactly the story behind GRT Architects’ stunning transformation of the St. Thomas Rectory in Harlem, a project that celebrates both heritage and creative reinvention. Built in 1907 by Thomas Henry Poole, this neo-Gothic structure once housed the clergy of the neighboring church—until neglect set in and its grandeur faded. Enter GRT Architects, with a mission to bring the building back to life without erasing its history.
Preserving the Past, Crafting the Future
From the street, the Harlem Rectory still whispers its original story—brownstone base, brick façade, and pointed-arch windows that reach toward the sky. But look closer, and you’ll spot the subtle interventions: materials slightly shifted in tone to mark what’s new, craftsmanship that honors what’s old. It’s the architectural version of a perfect remix—vintage meets modern, and somehow it all just clicks.
The Artist’s Vision, Layered in Light and Texture
The client, a world-renowned artist, needed a space that could live, breathe, and create. GRT Architects responded with a five-story layout that feels both sculptural and serene.
- The garden level houses a guest apartment—charming and tucked away.
- The middle floors form the heart of the home, anchored by a jaw-dropping double-height living room framed by a newly merged pointed-arch window.
- And above it all? A sun-flooded painting studio, where the architects raised the roof by four feet (literally) to accommodate the artist’s large-scale works.
It’s a balance of light, proportion, and poetry—proof that function can absolutely be beautiful.
Material Magic: Where Old Soul Meets New Craft
If you love texture (and who doesn’t?), this project is a masterclass. Reeded white oak paneling wraps the interiors in warmth, while bespoke cast-brass hardware and three-dimensional concrete tiles add a touch of modern artistry. Every surface tells a story—one that feels handcrafted, personal, and just a little bit rebellious.
Even the floors become focal points: black-and-white hexagonal tiles meet pink wood stairs, creating a visual rhythm that’s bold but timeless. It’s the kind of home where every material choice feels like a brushstroke.
Design Takeaways for Your Own Home
You might not be working with a five-story Harlem landmark (if only!), but there’s plenty here to borrow for your own design adventures:
- Respect your home’s bones. Keep the details that give it soul—and let new elements complement, not compete.
- Play with texture. From ribbed wood to rough brick, tactile materials create warmth and depth.
- Use light as architecture. Bigger windows, skylights, reflective finishes—these are your best design allies.
- Mix eras fearlessly. The best interiors feel collected, not copied.
- Let art lead the way. Whether it’s a bold rug or a sculptural stair, think like an artist curating a canvas.
Why It Matters
The Harlem Rectory isn’t just a renovation—it’s a reminder that architecture can tell a story that evolves. By marrying historic bones with contemporary creativity, GRT Architects proves that good design honors the past while boldly embracing the now.
And honestly? It’s a little bit church, a little bit studio, and completely divine.When a turn-of-the-century rectory meets a modern artist’s vision, magic happens. That’s exactly the story behind GRT Architects’ stunning conversion of the St. Thomas Rectory in Harlem, a project that celebrates both heritage and creative reinvention. Built in 1907 by Thomas Henry Poole, this neo-Gothic structure once housed the clergy of the neighboring church—until neglect set in and its grandeur faded. Enter GRT Architects, with a mission to bring the building back to life without erasing its history.
Preserving the Past, Crafting the Future
From the street, the Harlem Rectory still whispers its original story—brownstone base, brick façade, and pointed-arch windows that reach toward the sky. But look closer, and you’ll spot the subtle interventions: materials slightly shifted in tone to mark what’s new, craftsmanship that honors what’s old. It’s the architectural version of a perfect remix—vintage meets modern, and somehow it all just clicks.
The Artist’s Vision, Layered in Light and Texture
The client, a world-renowned artist, needed a space that could live, breathe, and create. GRT Architects responded with a five-story layout that feels both sculptural and serene.
- The garden level houses a guest apartment—charming and tucked away.
- The middle floors form the heart of the home, anchored by a jaw-dropping double-height living room framed by a newly merged pointed-arch window.
- And above it all? A sun-flooded painting studio, where the architects raised the roof by four feet (literally) to accommodate the artist’s large-scale works.
It’s a balance of light, proportion, and poetry—proof that function can absolutely be beautiful.
Material Magic: Where Old Soul Meets New Craft
If you love texture (and who doesn’t?), this project is a masterclass. Reeded white oak paneling wraps the interiors in warmth, while bespoke cast-brass hardware and three-dimensional concrete tiles add a touch of modern artistry. Every surface tells a story—one that feels handcrafted, personal, and just a little bit rebellious.
Even the floors and fireplaces become focal points: black-and-white hexagonal tiles meet pink concrete surrounds, creating a visual rhythm that’s bold but timeless. It’s the kind of home where every material choice feels like a brushstroke.
Design Takeaways for Your Own Home
You might not be working with a five-story Harlem landmark (if only!), but there’s plenty here to borrow for your own design adventures:
- Respect your home’s bones. Keep the details that give it soul—and let new elements complement, not compete.
- Play with texture. From ribbed wood to rough brick, tactile materials create warmth and depth.
- Use light as architecture. Bigger windows, skylights, reflective finishes—these are your best design allies.
- Mix eras fearlessly. The best interiors feel collected, not copied.
- Let art lead the way. Whether it’s a bold rug or a sculptural stair, think like an artist curating a canvas.
Why It Matters
The Harlem Rectory isn’t just a renovation—it’s a reminder that architecture can tell a story that evolves. By marrying historic bones with contemporary creativity, GRT Architects proves that good design honors the past while boldly embracing the now.
And honestly? It’s a little bit church, a little bit studio, and completely divine.
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