Luggage carts are essential in residential buildings, helping transport groceries, luggage, sports equipment, and countless other items. Yet despite their utility, they often become visual distractions in otherwise beautifully designed lobby spaces.
After three decades of specializing in lobby design for New York City’s cooperative and condominium buildings, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges boards face when balancing practicality with aesthetics. Here, I’ll share three distinctive luggage cart storage solutions my team has implemented, each addressing the common dilemma: how to make necessary carts accessible without compromising elegant design.

Luggage carts present unique design challenges because they:

• Occupy significant floor space in high-traffic areas
• Are often one of the first elements visitors notice
• Need to remain easily accessible
• Must be stored in a way that encourages proper return
• Require durable solutions that withstand repeated use

When approaching luggage cart storage, we always consider both form and function, typically recommending metal finishes that coordinate with existing hardware. Our goal is transforming potential eyesores into design elements that enhance a building’s overall aesthetic.

For a 1952 cooperative on the East River, we honored the lobby’s original Verde Marble details while creating practical storage. Our solution: a custom cart closet featuring inset Verde Marble panels framed in dark bronze metal.

We specified substantial double doors with specialized hardware to ensure effortless opening, allowing carts to slide into this elegant enclosed space. Positioned within easy reach of both elevators and the doorman station, this solution maintains sophisticated aesthetics while keeping carts accessible.

This approach works well for buildings with:

• Available wall space for conversion
• A desire to completely conceal carts when not in use
• Architectural elements worth highlighting

For an elegant 1930s pre-war cooperative in Carnegie Hill, we presented an “easy in/easy out” luggage cart storage approach. We constructed a decorative wall using plexiglass “crackle” material framed in rich mahogany wood, complementing the new doorman station we also designed.

We extended the existing pre-war marble baseboard throughout the storage area, creating a cohesive look while providing perfect-height protection against the carts’ rubber bumpers. This solution respects architectural heritage while discreetly solving modern needs.

Ideal for buildings that:

• Prefer semi-concealed luggage cart storage
• Have limited depth for full closet construction
• Want to maintain period-appropriate design elements

In a recent lobby redesign, we created a “grab ‘n go” cart solution positioned strategically near the front desk and entry. This convenient placement allows easy access while maintaining the lobby’s refined appearance.

The interior features durable wall protection material specifically selected to withstand cart friction. The entry surrounds are stone to handle incidental impact—a detail we’ve learned is essential through years of experience with how these spaces actually function.

Recommended for buildings that:

• Prioritize maximum convenience
• Have limited space for enclosed storage
• Experience high traffic and frequent cart usage

While luggage cart storage might seem like a minor detail, I’ve learned over three decades that these practical elements often make the difference between a merely attractive lobby and one that truly functions. My approach integrates necessary features into a comprehensive design vision that enhances overall aesthetics.

My team and I pride ourselves on delivering solutions that respect each building’s character while enhancing functionality, durability, and visual appeal.

I’d love to show you how thoughtful design solutions for everyday challenges like luggage cart storage can transform outdated lobbies and hallways into warm, welcoming spaces that residents love to come home to.

To check out more of Marilyn’s articles about lobby and hallway interior design solutions, click here.

As the founder and lead designer at Sygrove Associates Design Group, I deeply understand the nuances of interior design, particularly regarding public areas of co-op and condo buildings. While lobbies and hallways often receive meticulous attention in design projects, elevator cab interiors frequently remain an afterthought.

However, these transitional spaces serve as crucial links, embodying the aesthetic flow between a building’s key design areas. Elevators are indeed little time capsules and should be a pleasant experience for all who enter.

Having dedicated over thirty years to interior design for lobbies and hallways, I’ve observed a consistent pattern: elevator cab interiors tend to be at the bottom of most renovation lists, considered only during necessary mechanical upgrades or ADA compliance checks. Yet, these “spaceships” within buildings reinforce the visual connections between the lobby, hallways, and amenity spaces.

Imagine stepping into an elevator that mirrors the grandeur or quaint charm of your building’s public areas. The experience is uninterrupted, and the design language continues seamlessly, enhancing the building’s architectural storytelling. One of my firm’s many strengths is converting overlooked spaces into assets of elegance and functionality.

One of elevator cab design’s most significant challenges and opportunities is balancing aesthetics with durability. With high traffic, elevators endure a wide range of uses—from pets, children, shopping carts, and luggage to move-ins/outs and trash transport. Therefore, it is necessary to choose materials that can withstand such wear while maintaining a timeless appeal.

(We have only one elevator in my building, so even the recycling and trash come down in the elevators, as well as cleaning supplies, vacuum cleaners…)

One of our favorite materials for elevator cab interior walls is woven metal mesh, prized for its durability and classic design. It integrates beautifully with other textures and offers endless creative possibilities, as well as long-lasting beauty and functionality.

Lighting: Lighting is integral to the ambiance of an elevator cab. We prioritize indirect lighting fixtures strategically placed to enhance warmth and comfort. These include lighting around the perimeter, downlights, and even surface-mounted decorative fixtures. (Pendant fixtures are a “no-no,” as they can sway as the cab goes up and down.)

Flooring: Our preference is porcelain or stone, but when there is a weight issue, we turn to Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT). LVT gives the appearance and textural feel of porcelain or stone, but it is lighter and (and requires significantly less maintenance).

stone, or concrete, combined with exceptional durability and easy maintenance—ideal for the high demands of elevator use.

Accessories: We love to add design elements to handrails, notice frames, and protective pads, aligning them with a building’s broader aesthetic without compromising on resilience.

• Ceiling Adjustments: Consult with the elevator company to explore options for removing the existing ceiling and raising it to accommodate furniture, for example, if it doubles as a freight elevator.
• Compliance with Codes: Ensure the escape hatch, a code requirement, is accessible and coordinate the weight considerations of new materials for safety. (See NYC’s elevator codes here)
• Weight: Before selecting materials, it is critical to understand if there are any limitations due to weight and counterbalancing the elevator cab.

Every project we undertake at Sygrove matches innovative solutions with practical design challenges. We do not see obstacles; we see opportunities for creative excellence. Much like our approach to integrating columns into lobby designs, we transform elevator cabs into hallmarks of style and continuity.

Lobby Design: How To Deal With The Column Problem
Common Lobby Interior Design Problems & How We Solve Them
Ways To Make Your Hallways Look Wider

As the founder and lead designer at Sygrove Associates Design Group, I am thrilled that our firm continues to be the go-to choice for NYC co-op and condo Boards and management companies. Our expertise in navigating the complexities of lobby renovations is unmatched, particularly when dealing with obstacles such as pesky – yet essential – columns.

Many lobbies have one or more columns in the middle. These elements are typically structural and crucial for supporting the building’s framework. Removing them without thorough evaluation could lead to a traumatic crash, destruction, and, at minimum, fractures throughout the building. If the column is a pathway for plumbing and electrical pipes, hefty costs would be incurred if removed and rerouted as required.

Our process begins with a meticulous evaluation to determine the role of each column. Is it structural—tasked with holding up your building? Or was it added for mere aesthetic balance? We use various techniques, such as probes, to diagnose their nature. Oftentimes, just going into the basement to see if the column extends all the way down gives us the answer. (If there is a question, a licensed structural engineer should review the conditions and issue a report.)

We have been entrenched in the co-op and condo lobby and hallway interior design industry for over thirty years. We have encountered and solved the problem of lobby columns many times. Our experience has taught us that while columns cannot be wished away, their presence can offer unique creative and design innovation opportunities.

Once we’ve assessed the column’s role, we pivot to design—where true creativity shines. Here are examples of how we’ve integrated columns into seamless designs:

Each project reconfirms what decades in the field have taught us: elements that may initially seem to be obstacles can be beautifully integrated into the design plan. Our ability to transform what others see as hindrances into integral pieces of the new lobby speaks to our ethos of innovation. We ensure that each lobby not only handles foot traffic fluidly but also enhances the everyday experiences of its residents.

As you explore options for your NYC co-op or condo building’s lobby redesign/renovation project, the thoughtful approaches behind our designs prove that Sygrove Associates will enhance your space and address the practical needs imposed by their frameworks.

Ready for a transformative lobby renovation? Reach out to me, and let’s breathe some new life into your lobby – column or no column!

As the founder and lead designer at Sygrove Associates Design Group in New York City, I’m proud that co-op and condo Boards and management companies choose our firm more often than any other for lobby, hallway, and common area renovations and redesign.

Beyond our 30+ years of service and success in the NYC metro area, a key benefit of working with us is that we approach each project with the intention that it will look great for years – even decades. Durability and long-lasting materials are as essential to us as beautiful and inventive design solutions.

Regarding maintenance, the selected design, pattern, and colors play a significant role in general carpet maintenance. For our clients, we typically look for carpets with an overall pattern and enough “interest” not to call attention to every little droplet or spec of dirt that shows up daily. Color selection and placement of colors have a strong influence on what “coverage” the carpet will innately provide.

Many co-op and condo residents in the New York area celebrate the holiday season by holding parties in one of their buildings’ common areas, whether it be a resident lounge, community room, or lobby. Of course, stains from dirt and grime are always a concern, but during this time of year, building maintenance must also worry about other kinds of spills and drips – especially red wine!

I’m not dissing red wine; it’s my favorite! But everyone knows it’s notoriously difficult to remove. So here are some tried and true methods to get rid of red wine and other stains in your building’s common areas during the holidays.

OMG! Who doesn’t fear spilling red wine on carpet? Especially during the holidays, when wine flows freely, accidents just happen!

The first bit of advice carpet manufacturers suggest (we use mostly Axminster 80% wool and 20% nylon) to take the drama out of an innocent cabernet or malbec spill on an expensive carpet is to act fast; the less time wine sits on your carpet, the more difficult it is to remove.

Any of the three products below will do the trick if you use them immediately. Find a spot easily accessible to store them in so they can be grabbed and used at the spur of the moment:

• Capture Carpet & Rug Dry Cleaner: Safe for all types of carpets including Wool and Code S fabric, silk, surfaces, and material.
• Spill Doctor: Instantly absorbs and expands into a fluffy snow-like texture on contact with spills.
• Folex Professional Carpet Spot Remover: Works on colorfast carpets that can be safely dampened with water.

As skilled interior designers, we can recommend some remarkable fabrics where we can even confidently select light colors because their innate cleanability makes them winners.

Crypton’s fabrics are our #1 “go-to” for upholstery in our public space projects. Easily cleaned with a solution of mild soap and water or Crypton’s own cleaning products. We also love Ultra Suede, a suede-like fabric that can be wiped down with mild soap and water*.

1. Crypton Upholstery Gold and Purple Stain Remover Kit with Odor Out Deodorizer – Formulated to Break Down Tough Stains Including Food, Beverage, Protein and More.
2. Chateau Spill Red Wine Stain Remover – Formulated to penetrate fabrics to remove stubborn wine stains, including wine stains from upholstery.
3. Vanish Oxi Action Multi Power Gel – This is a versatile stain remover that helps in removing red wine stains effectively. It also provides sanitation benefits and is suitable for upholstery.

In addition to storing cleaning supplies in an accessible spot, they can be grabbed and used at the spur of the moment by your staff; the record of the materials in your building’s common areas and cleaning instructions should be stored in one easy-to-access place that everyone knows about. We always provide our clients with a maintenance manual as a hard copy and a digital version.

Choosing the right interior designer is crucial to maintaining the charm and functionality of your building’s common areas. With over three decades of experience transforming lobbies and public spaces in New York City, I’ve seen the incredible difference a well-thought-out design plan can make. An effective designer not only enhances the look but ensures longevity with durable materials and practical solutions.

Our goal is to keep your spaces looking vibrant and fresh for years to come. By selecting a designer who prioritizes both aesthetics and durability, you ensure your building can handle the daily hustle and seasonal festivities without losing its luster. Be ready with recommended products and proactive measures for those unexpected red wine incidents, as having a plan can save time and stress.

Ready to give your common areas the care and attention they deserve? Call or email, and let’s start redesigning your building’s future—together.

Author’s Note: While working on a Grand Ballroom and Amenity space design recently, the carpet installers shared this tip for red wine spills. They said: “Pour cheap white wine on the red wine stain. Blot it with a clean white cloth instead of rubbing. You’re then left with a white wine stain. Treat it with a vinegar and water solution or a commercial cleaning product (like the ones above). And voila! The stain is gone! I had never heard of this before, but they assure me it works!

* Caution: Mild soap is to be clear, not colored. Seventh Generation clear soaps or clear dish detergent are best.