In my years of experience designing lobbies, hallways, and amenities for New York’s most discerning co-ops, condos, and hotels, one truth has never changed: A beautiful design that doesn’t function well is a failed design.

After more than three decades designing lobbies and hallways for some of New York’s most prominent co-op and condo buildings, I’ve learned one truth that surprises many Boards : good design isn’t expensive — it’s cost-effective.

When you walk through your building’s lobby every day, it’s easy to stop noticing the details. But your visitors and prospective buyers notice them immediately — the colors, the lighting, the furniture, and even how technology and packages have quickly taken over.

When I first started working with boards and property managers, something became very clear: when our clients have a basic understanding of the interior design terms we use during NYC co-op lobby and hallway renovations, the decision-making process goes faster.

As the founder and lead designer at Sygrove Associates Design Group, I’ve spent over 30 years creating lobbies that people love to come home to—and hotel public spaces that people remember long after checkout.

Real-world examples from residential buildings in New York City where architecture, neighborhood, and resident voices shaped the design decisions.

I've learned a lot during my three decades of NYC residential lobby renovations. At the top of my list is this: the most dramatic transformations happen when you respect a building's history while solving today's problems.

Here’s something I’ve learned after decades of working on co-op and condo lobby renovations in the New York City metropolitan area: it’s the mistakes you don’t see coming that trip you up. The kind that quietly erode your budget, delay your timeline, and frustrate your residents. The good news? With the proper guidance, they’re all avoidable.

As the founder and lead designer at Sygrove Associates Design Group, I've spent over thirty years leading a brilliant team of interior designers in transforming lobbies and hallways in New York City's co-op and condo buildings. We are often asked to do a "lobby refresh," which typically means the Board or property management wants to do as little as possible to enhance the building’s image.