How 20+ Designers Transformed a 1920s Era Townhouse In NYC

The history of 36-38 East 74th Street in New York City is almost as grand as its exterior. The home was once owned by members of New York’s high society, including George Whitney Calhoun and Dorothy Hearst Paley.

Over the years, however, the townhouse fell into disrepair. Behind its still-impressive brick facade, the interior’s design was deteriorating: Cream colored walls, dated surfaces or peeling wallpaper occupied almost every room. That is, until this May, when it became the 47th Kips Bay Decorator Show House. More than 20 designers showed up, each assigned to one room, and got to work on the renovations.

Less than three months later, the reno was complete, and now an estimated 15,000 people will tour the townhouse in the 30 days it’s open to the public (all proceeds go to the Kips Bay Boys & Girls Clubs of America).

We’ve seen it up close; the place is stunning. And while you may not have gotten the chance to visit, you came to the right place. HGTV.com is taking you on an extensive tour: Up the spiral staircase and through each of the five (yes, five!) floors we’ll go. Be prepared to witness a total transformation—before pictures included.

The entrance to the townhouse was certainly not as chic as its exterior. With cream walls and light green trim crawling up the staircase, the space needed some help.

Enter designer Richard Rabel, who transformed the space into a luxe entryway. His aesthetic was inspired by memories of chasing peacocks around his grandparents’ property as a child. Here, lush hues of blue and green paired with metallic golds and silvers create a moody and modern space. Organic motifs in the Japanese style pull the whole look together.