An integrated series of outdoor spaces at this Manhattan townhouse display the power of simplicity and restraint to create an immersive and tranquil landscape experience in contrast to the chaos of the city beyond. Through the distillation of materials, patterns and elements, the landscape architects aimed to provide spaces that are distinct and physically separate from each other but simultaneously feel like a unified whole. This level of simplicity, often overlooked as a strategy in favor of something more complex, helps to minimize distraction and therefore increase the home’s sense of calm and refuge. The adept manipulation of proportion, volume and light results in beautiful and highly functional gardens and terraces for the clients and their growing family.

Images by: Anthony Crisafulli Photography, SYLA