Owner and designer Tom Givone, the restorer of this meticulous Harlem rowhouse (and the Floating Farmhouse), shares a similarity to Michaelangelo in his sculpting philosophy: unearth what already lies within.
As such, this painted lady, located on a cobblestone cul-de-sac in the National Historic District of Sugar Hill, has reemerged from its original structure with a delightful interplay of history and modernity – the hallmark of Givone’s work as featured in Dwell, Dezeen, and other major design forums and publications.
The Sylvan Row House was first discovered by the self-taught-architectural designer in 1998. Starting in 2015, piece by piece, he returned it to its 1882-built origins, like bringing back the home’s original pocket doors and fireplace (previously buried in the walls) and returning the entry staircase and crown moldings.
High ceilings reveal roof beams and the floors are original pumpkin pine. Nineteenth-century French crystal chandeliers were painted gloss white and rehung, another is from Flos. Materials like anodized aluminum and Carrara marble were brought in, while the kitchen shows off a concrete cube range hood. Furnishings are a mix of flea market finds and high-end statement pieces, like the couch by Wolf Home or the antique trolley table in the living area off the kitchen.
Now this piece of history turns another page, offered as a unique vacation rental in Manhattan, and we are thrilled to offer it up as part of our collection.