Designing a home is more than just selecting paint colors or choosing the right sofa—it's about storytelling. Every space has the potential to reflect the personality, lifestyle, and aspirations of the people who live there. And while the big-ticket items make the initial impression, it’s the custom details and finishing touches that truly bring a home to life.

There’s something beautifully symbolic about redefining your home as you step into a new chapter of life. For this Manhattan empty nester, ready to embrace more color, charm, and personality, we transformed her Upper East Side apartment into a "cool-girl" retreat with edge and elegance.

Tucked away on the Upper East Side, 130 East 80th Street, known as the Astor House, serves as the headquarters for the New York Junior League (NYJL). This five-story townhouse with two sub-basements is more than just a meeting place—it’s where passionate women come together to drive meaningful change in the community. And like any well-loved home, it carries a rich history, one that deserves to be honored and elevated.