Step Into 1970s Glamour In a Manhattan Apartment Reimagined
Welcome to a Manhattan sanctuary where the nostalgia of the 1970s meets modern-day luxury. Nestled in the cinematic charm of the West End Collegiate Historic District on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, this elegant New York City apartment, crafted by Crystal Sinclair of Crystal Sinclair Designs, is a bold exploration of style, warmth, and vintage allure. From vibrant color play to daring textures and geometric forms, Sinclair invites us on a room-by-room tour through a world where glamour and comfort effortlessly intertwine.
An Inviting Welcome
At first glance, the apartment sets the tone for a journey back in time, yet with a fresh twist. The entryway, rich in personality, features a plush area rug from Crystal Sinclair’s new collection alongside a striking wood cactus lamp—an art piece Sinclair loved so much she even sourced one for her own home. Here, every detail whispers refinement, inviting guests to explore further.
The Living Room- A Nod to Retro Romance
In the heart of the home, the living room embodies the essence of 1970s glamour redefined for today. At center stage is a softly curved Vladimir Kagan sofa that beckons you to sink in, surrounded by warm tones, plush textures, and an atmosphere that feels like “a sunset on a plateau desert,” as Sinclair describes it. The blush pink ceiling in Farrow & Ball Setting Plaster adds a dose of drama that feels both captivating and cozy. With nearly 80% vintage finds sourced from across Europe, this room tells stories of global design history while remaining a haven of warmth and modern-day luxury.
Anchoring the space is an exquisite late 18th-century tapestry, infusing the room with an artistic depth that feels effortlessly timeless. In true Crystal Sinclair style, the textured layering creates an inviting space that blends whimsy and elegance.
The Dining Room: Playful Patterns and Purpose
Stepping into the dining area, one is struck by the mix of retro energy and sophisticated touches. Sinclair chose warm wood tones and playful geometric-patterned textiles, capturing the lively yet refined aesthetic of the era. A rug from her triangle-patterned collection sets the scene, uniting earthy neutrals with vibrant warmth. Perfect for intimate gatherings or family celebrations, this room radiates a convivial, almost theatrical ambiance—a perfect pairing of 1970s nostalgia with modern charm.
The Kitchen: Functional Chic
With its vintage-inspired appliances and tasteful detailing, the kitchen is an understated nod to retro luxury. Sinclair’s approach here is minimalist yet impactful, with thoughtful touches like leather-bound handles and rich wood accents that blend functionality with subtle flair. This space doesn’t shout; it simply whispers elegance, prioritizing practicality without sacrificing beauty.
The Bedrooms: Dreamscapes of Personality and Warmth
Down a long hallway, a gentle reminder of the building’s storied architecture, lie the bedrooms, each imbued with its own character. Imagined for a vibrant family of five, Sinclair infused each room with personal touches. The master bedroom is an alluring retreat, grounded in layered textures of leather and wool, capped with a soft pink ceiling that adds a hint of romance. As Sinclair explains, it’s “like a gorgeous bedhead after a night of great passion,” a blend of sensuality and serenity that elevates the space.
The children’s rooms embrace playfulness with durability in mind. The twins’ room is a treasure trove of vintage charm with just the right dose of whimsy, while the teenager’s room exudes personality—a perfect blend of rebellious spirit and soft elegance, designed as a cozy, expressive sanctuary.
The Bathrooms: Subtle Glamour and Style
True to the apartment’s overall theme, the bathrooms are elegant yet down-to-earth. Sinclair introduced geometric wallpaper patterns that echo the era’s playful spirit while warm lighting adds a soft, flattering glow. Brass fixtures and vintage mirrors create an ambiance that’s as chic as it is functional, a beautiful testament to Sinclair’s eye for refined details.
Inspiration Behind the Design
Sinclair’s vision for the apartment stemmed from vivid imagery: a woman in a wool trench coat and the earthy tones of a clay tennis court. These visuals inspired a palette of pinks, creams, and warm woods that create an inviting warmth. The palette feels bold yet grounded, blending sunset tones to make the space alive and inspiring.
Sinclair incorporated the building’s Collegiate Gothic architecture into her design, balancing history with modernity. The apartment’s layout flows naturally, with each room offering a unique but connected experience. It invites exploration and feels cohesive.
Photographed by Adrian Gaut, each image reflects Sinclair’s vision. Styling by Lauren Davis Britvan adds cohesion and elegance. Sinclair has crafted more than a home—it’s a treasure trove of design, rich with emotion and self-expression.
In this Manhattan apartment, Sinclair proves glamour is more than a look—it’s a feeling and a celebration of design’s complexities. Step inside and be transported.
Photo Credits: Adrian Gaut
Interior Design: Crystal Sinclair Designs
