Totally carpeted in monochrome beige, this 1960s raised platform — an optical expansion in a New York apartment living room — provided a cozy cloverleaf well of seating.
This expansion wasn’t a true remodel in that no structural changes were required. What you see was actually more like a platform or stage that expanded into the height of the room, except where the cozy seating nook was.
High ceilings made it possible for the main surface of the platform to start three or four feet higher than the actual floor, and still allow for enough headspace that someone could walk around to access the window side of the round built-in seats.
The sunken pit area had more than just curved sofas and space for clear lucite drink tables: there was also a wide “leaf” of space that could serve as a loveseat or a cozy reading nook.
Off-the-floor art hung from, and on, the ceiling. Lights were hidden within fabric-covered cylinders of fiberboard that also concealed stereo speakers.
An audio-visual surround was designed by the owner, an associate of Kahn and Jacobs, architects.
Shiny stainless steel accents held plants and decorated the wall, while the room benefited from pops of green, red and yellow.
ALSO SEE: The mid century conversation pit: A photo timeline of that fascinating 60s and 70s living room trend
