Laverne Cox, an Emmy-nominated actress and prominent LGBTQ+ advocate known for her role as Sophia Burset in “Orange Is the New Black”, transformed her 634-square-foot studio apartment in New York City into a haven of style and functionality.
Despite its compact size, the apartment feels far from cramped, owing to innovative space-saving solutions and a thoughtful design approach.
Cox enlisted architect Robert Garneau, known for his work on the modular “Pivot Apartment,” to help create a space that maximizes storage while maintaining an uncluttered and elegant atmosphere.
The result is a chic and functional living area that reflects Cox’s personality, merging glamour with practicality.
Every element in the apartment was chosen with purpose, reflecting Cox’s preference for minimalist luxury in the heart of the bustling city.
Design Features
The studio apartment is a masterclass in efficient design, featuring multifunctional elements that maximize the limited space.
A custom motorized Murphy bed in the living area folds seamlessly into the wall, creating more open floor space during the day.
To accommodate her tall stature and need for comfort, the bed is built higher than typical Murphy beds, complete with a tufted headboard that adds a touch of luxury.
For entertaining, the apartment boasts a backlit onyx dining table that folds down when needed, providing both style and functionality.
The main wall is lined with sleek walnut cabinets, offering ample storage for everything from clothing to wigs, blending practicality with aesthetics.
Despite its small size, the kitchen is strikingly sophisticated.
Its standout feature is the Tundra limestone backsplash that extends from the countertop to the ceiling, creating a unified and upscale look.
Matte black fixtures add a touch of elegance, while the streamlined cabinetry conceals appliances to maintain a minimalist appearance.
The bathroom complements the rest of the apartment with moody tones and luxurious details, including a spacious walk-in shower, marble surfaces, and a hidden water closet for added privacy.
The Renovation Phase
Renovating the apartment was no small task.
Cox began the renovation process in 2020, driven by a desire to escape the transient lifestyle of hotels and embrace her dream of owning a place in New York.
She and Garneau collaborated extensively, focusing on creating a home that would meet her needs while reflecting her style.
This project involved several challenges, such as finding storage solutions for a small space and incorporating Cox’s personal touch, including wig storage and a hidden glam station.
The renovation journey was documented on Cox’s YouTube channel, where she shared her experiences and insights.
From selecting materials to optimizing storage, every detail was considered.
Expanding the entryway closet maximized storage capacity, while strategically removing drywall in other areas revealed hidden spaces for additional storage.
The final result is a testament to Cox’s commitment to thoughtful design, with every inch of the apartment serving a purpose.
Personal Life: A Balance Between Glamour and Modesty
While Laverne Cox is widely recognized as a star in Hollywood, her living situation reflects a different side of her lifestyle—one of modesty and intentional simplicity.
Owning her first property at the age of 50 marked a significant milestone, symbolizing a shift from the whirlwind of a nomadic lifestyle to the stability of homeownership.
The apartment embodies Cox’s philosophy of living well without excess, demonstrating that luxury does not require an expansive space but rather a well-designed one.
Choosing to live in a studio aligns with her values of mindfulness and sustainability, encouraging a lifestyle free from unnecessary clutter.
A Glimpse Inside the Chic Studio
Soft tones and a plush ottoman create a serene atmosphere in this seating nook, where a delicate arrangement of dried branches adds natural beauty.
Elegant curtains cascade behind a sleek sofa, featuring neutral cushions that harmonize with the minimalistic decor and the strategically placed accent pieces.
Rows of designer apparel hang neatly within the closet, showcasing a selection of high-fashion garments illuminated by subtle interior lighting.
Dark cabinetry contrasts against a minimalist storage area, presenting clean lines and modern functionality in this organized space.
A refined marble alcove enhances the kitchenette’s sophistication, where under-cabinet lighting emphasizes the textured stone surface and understated floral decor.
The marble desk with matching cabinetry provides a workspace featuring understated elegance, complemented by a dark vase and fresh green accents.
Sleek panels and delicate greenery surround this marble workspace, merging contemporary style with organic touches for a refined, yet natural feel.
Frosted glass illuminates the desk area, where natural light reflects off the polished marble, creating a soothing ambiance perfect for quiet moments.
A seamless wooden panel slides open to reveal concealed storage, combining modern design with functionality for a clutter-free environment.
Thoughtfully designed cabinetry frames the marble surface, with soft lighting enhancing the contrast and textures within the sophisticated workspace.
Soft-toned built-in cabinetry seamlessly wraps around the corner, incorporating subtle gold accents that introduce a hint of luxury.
Behind the custom wood-paneled door, a neatly organized shoe closet showcases an array of stylish footwear illuminated by warm interior lighting.
Rows of dark and light-colored clothes hang neatly within the open closet, displaying an impeccable organization against the natural wood finish.
An inviting bed with a plush velvet headboard nestled into a nook of built-in cabinetry creates a cozy, intimate sleeping space.
The bathroom features a spacious soaking tub encased in sleek stone with soft lighting, setting a serene tone for relaxation.
A walk-in shower enclosed by frosted glass and fitted with sleek black fixtures offers a private and sophisticated bathing experience.
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