apartment therapy changing the world, one room at a time

The apartment feels a little dormy and ostentatious to me, and I just can't get behind descriptions written in caps.

well this is the nicest "guy" apartment I have ever seen, is there a the stainless-keg-a-rator?

BTW, what is that a 50" flat-tv??? or is it bigger?

Lighten up Daniel. This place has loads of personality. While it may not be my taste, for a single guy in the city, it's great. I love the "Wild and Crazy Guy" bar and the love pit couch. Oy, if the walls could talk... Kudos on finding a place with an outdoor room. We did the same thing - we searched until we found a place with a patio. It's tough giving up that space come winter! I love the pops of red, something I do myself. The fish tank is a really nice way to bring light through the place. One suggestion - give the rubber duckies a more prominent place in the bathroom.

The Ligne Roset furniture is great... but that bar is definitely taking the annual cheese... Not even that Beatles or Monkees diorama on the top shelf could help there...

Have you gone to the Vitra store? You might check out the rolling bar in sexy lacquer by Verner Panton. Definitely an item on my dream list.

Well edited, Frank! I like your cactus collection, even though I'm not a cactus person.

How long have you lived here, and do you rent or own?

The only suggestions I have would be to synthesize all those different pieces under your TV to ONE, for the sake of cohesiveness. There seems to be a lot going on there. Also, add a bit of personality on your walls. (Although, come to think of it, I must admit that I oohed and ahhed through your whole slideshow before realizing there was nothing hanging on the walls other than your television. )

Gorgeous floors.

Extra bonus points for being an immaculate housekeeper. That bathtub and enclosure gleam! Do you do anything special to the walls above your bathtub to prevent mildew? Are they sealed? Oddly, I have a duck in the exact same spot in my own bathroom.

I'm quite torn between your space and Patrick-the-other-one's as my favorite.

I'M GLAD FRANK IS SO ENTHUSIASTIC ABOUT HIS APARTMENT. But I wasn't really wowed.

Oops, nix my questions on renting/owning and for how long. I didn't see your rundown before I posted. Grazie.

This apartment is very nice but at the same time it's missing something - a soul or warmth or character, something. Hopefully those will come in time as he lives there longer. The white walls are something I'd change and the bar is just too much. Tone it down and close it up. I'm sure he loves the idea of having a such a nifty, swingin' pad but it all just screams to me that he's got lots of cash but that's all. I'm probably most irked by the fact that the only thing he appears to have cheaped out on was the stereo.
It is a nice place but it's trying too hard and is a little superficial to me but I'm married and settled down - don't let me rain on your parade.

Nice to see an apartment that takes a different turn from a traditional studio look. Reminds me of a relaxing lounge and I really like the colors and steel combination. Also, bathroom is to die for.
You even attempted plants- kudos for that. =)

Seems that you are very into that lounge/music feel (ok, dead give-away with the guitar on your bed and wall-o-cds =))- why not add some art to match? Not much (don't want to loose that feeling)...just a few pieces that might "lift" the space so everything doesn't feel like it's squashed on the floor? (if that makes any sense at all)

Nice job Frank, I really like your space (what can I say, I'm a rocker at heart! ;D )
Please no more caps though...=)

Ok, you spent a lot of $$$ on the place -- it just looks like a collection of really expensive stuff w/o any things tying it together. Why buy the flat-screen TV to save space and still keep CDs around (instead of ripping them to MP3) if not to show off your super-cool (and expensive) CD collection? Second the other comments about the bar - while you were tearing out walls, you could have put in recessed shelving or something. Heck, $120 at Ikea would've bought a more attractive solution.

That track lighting is horrendous. And have you ever heard of artwork?

I'm sorry...till now every one has gotten a cool out of prinicipal but I'm forced to place a so-so.

The home ent setup just makes my teeth grind. I see it happen so often...people just pile stuff under the tv as though they still had an armoire, or traditinal set up. You spent a year on the place you could have placed a conduit to a remote location and later on / as you expanded you could have run the wires. Even possibly inwall speakers instead of a sony dream machine.

That and...the fishtank...I imagine you spent a fourtune...so why is it a freshwater tank? (unless I'm wrong...I could be)

The stark whites to the blacks also reminds me of the 80's...a bit too much.(which is good if thats what your going for) Almost a bit guady...

Also does the 475sq ft. cover the terrace?

I'm sorry if this comes across as negative...and I really don't mean to be so but..pfft it is what it is.

On the plus side I like the "euro" feel of the bathroom that has every surface tiled (ceiling too right? ) I like the toaster as well...I almost bought one. (I went vintage instead) I do recall when the queen of england wants toast thats what they use.

There is definitely a bachelor pad vibe here. It feels sort of "retro" to me somehow. Don't care much for your bar choice and I'm afraid I have to agree with me of me inc. that the home entertainment system could benefit from some of the money spent on the built-in fish tank. Storage/clutter doesn't seem to be a problem for you and I do like the "pops" of red especially the cacti, but this apartment doesn't say comfortable home to me. Still it might be a contender.

If it weren't for the flatscreen, I would have thought I was looking at a spread for a cool batchelor pad in a 1970's Playboy.

It definitely says bachelor pad to me. All that stainless steel, black and white.Is that a tan accent wall in the bedroom? Id paint more of that. A color on the wall as you enter and see the fishtank would also make the fishtank stand out. And how about some plants on the deck? I think you;ve done a great job, but you need a little more warmth in your place. Love that bed.

Love it! Frank's quite the character and the apt is a labor of love for him, obviously. It might not be to everyone's taste but then again, they don't live there, do they?
Question - do the lights dim when you snap your fingers? That would be awesome.

Hey, Jimkk,
I'm not stalking you, honest, but how can you object to p(too)'s obelisks, and not Frank's cacti? =o)

This is the guy-est place I've ever seen that didn't have clothes all over the floor. If it could only meet Beth's girly jewel they could get married and raise a family of little studios. A solution to the housing shortage!

martha--
"Jim" had the obelisk problem, not "jimkk".

Looks like the island of unfinished thoughts....

oh sorry, getting confused. time to stop pretending to work and go home.

Very nice in a straight guy kind of way. I can see myself waking up here naked and giggling.

And wondering, "What's this guy's name again?"

MEEEEEow! What are you all eating today?

I like the space. I think it's neat.

Although I agree that the bar is kinda cheesy. Do people actually ever sit at the bar stools and drink?

However, sometimes cheesy can make a place fun.

Are the pops of red really there all the time, or was it for the photos, mostly?

And the terrace is cool. So jealous.

OK, that turned out to be a pretty cool apartment! I liked the materials used in the flooring, the fish tank is a cool touch, and I see what you mean about the patio.

There were things I didn't like so much... and the elegant sleekness of the place perhaps made them more noticible... the bar is pretty cluttered looking and takes up valuable floor/wall space. Ditto the CD collection and TV/audio setup. I would have liked to see some equally elegant and sleek built-ins to hold that stuff and keep things "clean."

At the same time, those huge walls cry out for big, bold artwork. For example, the wall you see straight ahead of you from the entryway. Why not hang one big painting there?

I think Frank did some really good stuff here (apart from leaning a little too heavily on the caps key) -- I just would like to see him take it all the way.

While it's a little slick for my taste, I bet it works really for Frank and his lifestyle. It's like a Maxim Magazine wet dream, and feels very "Patrick Bateman" (from American Psycho)--but, in a good way. And I don't think that's such a bad thing for him--since it's obvious he "lives the life." I won't address the interior spaces since most have already commented on them (except to add that the floors are amazing). I would really do something with patio/terrace to transform it into an outdoor room that flows with the rest of the space. Keeping with the playboy/bachelor/single guy vibe already in place in the interiors, I would hang floor-to-ceiling white outdoor fabric along the full-width of the fence and adjacent wall for privacy and soften the overall look. I agree with someone else's comments about adding plants. It seems like something simple and "architectural" like horsetail or pencil cactus in simple containers might work for Frank. (But maybe not, because of weather, huh?) Also, I would consider getting rid of the bistro set and have someone fabricate an L-shaped low, deep lounge seating area along the full-width of the fence and adjacent wall (covered in the same white outdoor fabric as the curtains). Maybe place a low modern-looking stainless steel firepit in the center? Again, not really my style, but I think it would maximize the outdoor area as entertaining space while giving it an Ian Schrager/Hotel Delano/Mondrian/SkyBar vibe. Just add top-shelf liquor, Thievery Corporation CDs, and "the beautiful people"... (Also, it would be a good place to take naps.)

Oops I just lost my post and now I see yet another person has suggested big bold art. I was thinking glossy, resin-type or color photography, either work the red and dark brown or choose something just because you love it and it will show you're not TOO hung up on decor (even if you are, and there is nothing wrong with that)

Second suggestion, I could really see a couple huge Yucca plants on that terrace. They are easy in sun or shade, cold hardy (mostly), drought tolerant, and follow the cactus theme. There are lots of different species but, only Y. filamentosa and Y. flaccida are cold hardy enough to be absolutely sure here.

Also, there's no harm in showing off a good CD collection.

It's very bachelor, but overall, I like it. We have the same faucet. Weird.

Re. artwork. They have frames for records at the Container Store. I don't know what's in the milkcrates, but you might consider framing a few of your favorites. My ex [a musician] did that in his house, and it looked good.

Where do you sit to eat? The bar doesn't look inviting. It's like a time-out area with the white walls closing in around you. I love the floors though and the terrace looks incredible. I'd like to see the waterfall.

Heh. This is the apartment equivalent of a penis car. It's shiny! It's expensive! It lights up from the bottom!

Kudos for the DYI renovation. The use of space in the apartment is not very efficient, though. The front room and the entertaining area in the main room both serve the same function. I'd use the front room as a study or something, since there is already a comfy couch to entertain guests.

The bed and the couch are both square, similar size and height, and I think it makes the room look smaller. When a space functions as both a living room and a bedroom, I'd opt for a giant bed or a giant couch, but not both. Actually, I wouldn't opt for giant anything. Except maybe a truly enormous cactus?

First the kudos - Love the outdoor space, the twin platforms of the bed and the sofa pit, the bathroom that's vaguely Italian. But it is a bit sanitary. I'm not feelin' the love. And I'm a bit put off by the emphasis in the pitch on money spent. I've never seen anything truly stunning that didn't involve some investment, but I'm more impressed with places that require at least some give and take between money and design.

This living space doesn't even deserve our attention.

People are being way too nice.
I like the wood floor a lot, and the couch.
The bathroom is nice.
The bar is a nightmare. What do you do in that room? My guess is nothing. Do you sit at the bar with a bosom buddy on those stools?
The Giant TV with nothing else on the walls is also horrible, and the agglomeration underneath is pointless.
The CD wall ... when looking at the pictures I prayed it was a bookcase, but no such luck. I hate CD walls, they're wrong.
Considering you did so much work, why not a few built-ins, to put your CD's and your liquor so you don't need that ugly bar. make the dining/bar area a little less sterile, for gods sake, and get some art for the walls.

Hmmm, rather bitchy, Brian. Let's see your digs.

Must admit Frank's enthusiasm is catching.

There are elements that I like and work well.
I love the LEM Piston Stool (almost bought them myself but wife and I couldn't agree on them) but must admit they look kinda lost next to the bar. They really need to be lined up in a row along a straight bar (breakfast or otherwise) for the full effect. Opening up the kitchen wall (with an open boxed shelving unit such as the one in the Mott st apt to retain storage above but to keep it open) to the living area would work to give you that breakfast bar. Also I would have been tempted to go for the walnut over the leather to match (or at least key into) the platform of the bed. I really like the bed too and like the fact that the pillows could make it work as a kind of sofa making (as others have said) the other sofa redundant. In the end it may be too deep to work that way though.

The use of a flat panel TV (I'm guessing that's the Sony 42" XBR950 LCD - pic not clear enough to tell) is ideal in a place like this but, as others have said, the space underneath is too cluttered. However, that console looks great. You need to show it off more. Possibly my moving the center channel to a wall mount under the tv or even using the built in seakers of the Tv as the center (not ideal but I'm guessing you're not one of those obsessive audiophiles) and removing everthing off the top. Also, low frequency sound is not directional so you can move that subwoofer to a hidden location to help clean up that area.

I agree, the floors look great also but, having said that, I would be tempted to get a largish rug to better define the seating area and remove the ottoman to be replaced by a low coffee table on top of the rug.

The best aspect is that outdoor space and I agree with you Frank that this was worth searching out.

In summary, I do "get" this place, it is not exactly my style but there are elements that are, and I would still do some more tweaking to perfect it. Thanks for sharing.

Excuse me for saying this, but please use constructive criticism when commenting.

Once again, as stated 123456789 times before by the regulars here...these people are opening their (a lot of times intimate) homes to us- please respect that.
(And I'm not aiming this at any one person...just a general statement to think about when you're writing a comment). Thank you!

oh and I agree with jamie pup about a rug and a table =) It would really define the "sitting area" part of the room.

One other question though for Frank- do guests sit on your bed? Just wondering because I never feel comfortable sitting on someone's bed (unless it was a futon or their bed/couch combo and that's all the seating there is)...Just asking because they way I think about it, a person is out and sitting on cars/trains/buses/benches/chairs/etc...then to go sit on something someone sleeps on. hmm...

I like the flooring. Looks like bamboo maybe? I might like the bathroom, somehow the tile being at an angle is throwing it all off. Most of the furniture is nice, but it's just not working in this space. I definitely thought 1980's at first glance. It is funny he's gone through the trouble to get this huge television but then there's no armoire or console to contain the other pieces so it just looks like a bunch of stuff piled on the floor. I think there are other spaces in the contest with so much more flow and good design going on.

Something I just realized, is it my imagination or are there no window treatments?

i dont know why people are being so negative about it. most of the negative comments revolved around the expensive stuff in the apartment- ostentatious, plasma tv, etc. i notice a trend of reviewing dingy lived-in, almost grotty apartments favourably. are people with money to splash discriminated against now?

This is a great pad. Perfect pad for a bachelor living the life. I can picture Frank, his parties, his orgies, the lines he uses to get chicks in here.

However considering the time and money spent, I feel Frank could have gone the extra inch and completed the sleek look of the place
-The bar is awful and out of sync with the place.
-I expected the latest B&O stereo system instead of this Home Theater in a Box.
-The outdoor space is bare, spruce it up.
-The CD rack is OK but considering the dough spent elsewhere, I expected to see some original custom made "structure" to house these babies.
-Idem for the clutter under the flat screen.

I disagree with the negative comments about the lack of "art". In my opinion Frank is not much into art but a nice, big Pop Art piece on the wall behind the sofa could add punch to the room and keep with the general feel of the place.

And people should remember this contest showcases personal spaces. The owner must feel at ease in the place. Based on his comments and the style he sought, Frank's personality and lifestyle match this bachelor pad. I can respect that. I dig the place.

Hajar—It's funny to me that when I clicked on your name the link is to your real estate website and your question/commentary is "are people with money to splash discriminated against now?" Oh puuhlese. Yes, that's exaaaactly the point of these 39 or whatever posts—money=bad, hovels=good. Frank points out that he's spent a lot of time and money on the place so it is reasonable for people to wonder why the stereo is sitting on the floor.

Hey, what is the award on top of the bar? maybe a daytime Emmy? or is it just a "World's Best Dad"?

Here's an idea for "pop art"...

Take the guitar and hang it on the wall?

I mean instead of having it on the bed.

That is unless you play every day.

This is a very interesting apartment for me. I can't resist adding comments. And, by the way, this is only MY reaction - I have never lived the life this apartment offers. I think we have very different budgets and taste. If I were given the space and budget, this would be a very different (not better or worse)space.

After hearing about your efforts, I came to understand the worth of your apartment. For me, though, the end product is not my style and I do not think that I would fully appreciate or notice the details that you have described above. Maybe some 'before' pictures could have helped explain this apartment more. I definitely think having knocked out a closet was a great choice for your apartment, especially when you have such juicy sunlight to enjoy.
I have a feeling that actually experiencing the apartment would do it the most justice to its integrity of materials(as opposed to mine, which ONLY looks good in pictures!). Even though I would LOVE to have this apartment, (or almost any of those shown on AT), I feel that there is an imbalance in terms of how much explaining is actually needed in order to enjoy the apartment. Without knowing the floors are 1" thick maple, they look the same as a floating wood laminate floor to me. But I know I would feel the difference if I walked on them, surely... The fact that the marble is Italian or that the bathroom is all stone translates intellectually, but not emotionally. I have seen ceramic tiles that look similar, excite me more and cost less, and were installed by someone who was not imported from Italy. Also, do you sleep with a guitar? =)

Oddly enough, the two things that I enjoy the most in your apartment are the cacti and sunlight in back - which are the cheapest things in the whole apartment. I also do like the open layout. I can appreciate this very much and would enjoy this space you have created based on that alone.

This place sort of feels like it should have a velvet rope in front... while it's not a place i could see myself in, there are definitely things about it which i like. The floors, the bathroom, the bed-as-lounge thing. But i will echo the many others above who suggested a console under the TV, some art, a coffee table, and a rug (perhaps a flotaki, in keeping with the shag-a-delic vibe). You've obviously worked hard on it, so congrats on the results you've achieved.

Well if the ladies are picturing themselves waking up there and giggling; I'd say you have a winner. DUDE! Do my apartment!

Not my style, though.

Given all the not-so-niceties, I thought I'd add to my earlier comment. I totally get the desire for a bar - my hubby would kill for one if we had the space and my neighbors have done a FABULOUS kitchen/bar combo that involved hunting for and finding an actual antique bar counter. That said, this one could be better. Frank, think "deco" and I believe you can have your cake (scotch) and eat (sip) it too! I also have to appreciate - given the bachelor pads I've seen - any guy willing to put his money and time into his surroundings.

Firstly, I'll second Miya's request to do, basically what our moms might say, "Watch the tone of voice" because I think there's no need to be openly nasty.

Now, for he's done with the place -- personally, I think it's great when people actually decide that they're going to be the one person who willingly, openly create a space that is NOT all about re-sale value, but exactly what they want it be, and although I'm not a fish person, I think the tank is a very intesting touch, which kind of makes for an organic version of a lava lamp idea, for instance. I'm not a cactus person, but I love their use here.

I really have to agree about the entertainment components on the floor, though. I would either buy, or have custom-built, a black laminate or dark chocolate stained wood cabinet the same height as the couch to hold the components, so it sort of made one big old stripe at the bottom of the wall to match that couch. I'm also not big on liquor, so I wouldn't enjoy the bar, but as they go, I think it's kind of fun.

As far as no art on the walls, if he really hates having art, per se, I would have maybe had certain entire walls painted with a medium to dark gray or something, just to give a bit more sculptural composition to the place.

OR ... instead of having just the CD's up, if he's anywhere near old enough to remember 12-inch LP's, maybe one horizontal stripe of framed ones of those smack up against each other, in those black frames that Restoration Hardware sells. That way it's not "paintings", but it still says something about what his particular taste in music (well, at least what OLD music he likes) which is still clean-lined, yet something of a conversation piece.

But basically, I like the all-shiny-and-new look, and I like his enthusiasm about his place and how much thought he put into each thing. I think it's pretty dang swell.

Frank's apartment is a joke entry, right?

what is with the negativity?

CONSTRUCTIVE criticism please!

Even if I didn't like an apt, I wouldn't say "why is this even here"- that's someone's home!
I would point out the elements I DID like, at the sime time pointing out _why_ I didn't like others. It's hard to believe you could absolutely hate everything...but if you did, there's a better way to state it.

rr- sorry to disappoint you but were you looking to drop me a short note? my email address is freely available on the website you saw. any means of identification on your end?
good that you clarified this contest's policy'hovel=good, money=bad'. wasnt so clearly explained on the context webpage

This was a riot! I've seen model apartments tricked out like this, and it's always a hoot. Money isn't discriminated against, but it's the easy way to do things. And it's boring. This apartment looks cold.

Frank's Custom Apartment puts all the others to shame!!! The clear winner. Not even close! I liked several of the others until seeing this masterpiece. While I don't have an apartment of my own that's as nice as any of the entries, I've been looking closely at every photo of every apt and reading all the descriptions as well. Frank's Custom apt stands out and is the most unique and original by far! I love that it has the most personality and he refrained from looking like a catalog just like pretty much all the others in this contest. What threw me off is that he's got some of the nice things you see in these fancy catalogs like the LEM piston stools and the Ligne Roset furniture and also the appliances. The difference here is how he organized all this stuff and what he put around them. He somehow made it magically work. Seems like every single inch was thought out so smart. Look at the other entries then go and look thru any interior catalog. You will find the same things in both but I guarantee you won't find one that looks anything like this gem! Impossible!!! Anyone can copy a photo in Architectural Digest but you cannot copy character, creativity and personal style.

If there's one thing that tops the cool list, it has to be this perfectly custom fish tank in the wall right above the bed? This is MTV Cribs quality craftsmanship but the difference is that it's done with style. Is that tiling around the tank too? Amazing! Let's not forget that the tank is right smack in front of the bar area on the other side too! I've worked with many designers and used to work with interior designers as well and what impresses me most about Frank's apt is the fact that he did it his way and his way only. It sounds like he did not hire someone to design it either. I love that he refrained from putting frames in the living area. Never seen it done like that I think ever. How bold and confident! Frank's pad is the only one that takes a chance and does it with contrast, interesting use of color and in the most unexpected way. Why is everyone so safe and boring? I'm sick of the nice, expected look. Does anyone not have any personality?

One thing I do not like about this contest is that some people purchased their place like this one and others rent. I've looked at some places that have immaculate and beautiful kitchens etc. Renters take credit for something they did not do. That's not fair. There should be two separate contest for owners and one for renters to be totally fair. Frank stated that he completely gutted out the entire place and started from scratch. He made every decision. How impressive! People don't go this far for their houses. The kitchen is killer! I've never seen a bathroom that's all tumbled marble including ceilings. And Granite in a studio? Wow! I don't thing the Bellagio has granite. Unreal! How smart to balance the granite floors with the gorgeous detailed wood. And he got the good stuff too! I'm blown away to say the least! Does someone really sleep on that bed every night? Okay It's obvious that I'm jealous and you deserve it. I can see clearly why Frank's masterpiece has gotten so many jealous sounding comments. Several people criticize the stuff under the TV? How petty. That stuff can be moved at anytime, besides it's nicely set up.

Lets be honest, any place can be suited up to look great with the right stuff in the right place but not every place has great stand-out elements like this outdoor space, not to mention the location it's in. Not every place has a custom tank in the wall. Not every place has a kitchen with stainless appliances and cabinets as well, with the black stone, supported with phenomenal granite floors. Not every place has a bathroom with marble everywhere that looks so clean and crisp. Absolutely gorgeous! How can anyone compete with this? Are the people entering telling all their friends to vote for them because it seems ironic that Frank's place is not dominating like I expect. Maybe it's because he entered late. Well those votes don't count I gather, but it does seem a bit strange to see some other rather average looking apts with so many Winner votes. Frank, don't be alarmed one bit. Love the cactai too! Frank you might hate me for one thing. If I had to say one thing, I have to agree that the most cluttered spot is under the TV but I have no doubt that you have good reasons. You could have removed some stuff for the photos but what I love is that you did not. That shows how much passion this guy has. He obviously puts a lot of heart into what he likes and that's why he has in my book, the clear winner. Not even a close second place!

Along with it's immaculate design and organization, this place seems to have too many interesting elements not to win first place. Anyone can throw up framed art and organize pillows on a bed like they do in the West Elm catalog, but it seems like the whole story behind this pad of how he did all the research and work to find the outdoor space on 15th St and how he took down an entire wall just for the fish tank ads to it's uniqueness and legend.

A lot of the criticism seems to also be concerning all the money he spent. Many times money is wasted on stuff that does not make a difference, but in this case he made every penny count and then some. I can make a list of things this place has and all the others lack and don't come anywhere remotely close. I can't do that for any of the others. That's what makes it a clear winner.

Last but not least, people always say that your place says something about you. I'm very confident I'd have a much more interesting conversation with Frank just because of his individuality and passion his place possesses. Frank, you don't need that guitar to be a rockstar with a place like that! This place says something about him and he's not scared to show it off even though it can be over the top for most. I'm sure if Frank was trying to please others like most of the entries, his apartment would lack the most important thing we as humans strive for. Character. Go Frank!

See, I told you this apartment gets Frank laid.

Lisa wins the Longest, most Passionate post on AT. Frank keep up the good work.

Lisa? Meet Frank. Or have you already met?

So lisa is franks new roommate I take it? (I kid...put the mace back down)

It's not that money was spent...

I just think some things were not fully thought out to their full potential
Namely the Ent Cntr. In more new constructions I see, there is usually a closet to the side set for A/v equipment, and the facade left for the tv, which is usually recessed in to the wall and occasionally framed. Even a pvc conduit to a closet would have made a huge difference. (if used in conjunction with a RF remote)

Someone pointed out the sub being in front.(good point)
Subs are just that..subsonic frequencies which are neutral/non directional. On top of that subs tend to be non shielded. Ergo if you place a vhs, or a roll of film on top of it...the potential to ruin the data. It just doesn't make any sense...

Personally If I was overseeing a total renovation I would have opted for in wall speakers + in wall sub. Those floors are perfect for a down firing set up.

I'm sorry but for a place that was gutted top to bottom...it just doesn't seem to have much thought put forth as it could have.

The fishtank...it's a freshwater tank! I mean you spend a fortune and then cheap out at the last second on filters/sand? Had it been a salt water tank w/ proper uv lamps the results would have been amazing. (think finding nemo)

There are a lot more knowledgeable people at AT in about everything from A-Z however these 2 things I know about and they seem like total after thoughts. Given he spent a year, it just seems Frank went so far and then stopped just short.

Although that wall would be perfect for a projector...

(projector=the perfect minimalist set up)

This was an interesting entry. I did like the kitchen and the bathroom--and I wouldn't have thought I'd like the bathroom tiles, but I did. Frank, I'm sorry, but I hate the bar with the fire of a thousand suns. (I had to get that out. No offense.) The outdoor space is fantastic, but I do think the ideas about painting the walls (even a warmer off-white) and putting down a rug are very good. As a woman who was single only 6 months ago, I do have to say that if I entered this apartment, I'd run like hell. It screams "Committed bachelor who just wants to get laid." That's fine, but those aren't exactly hard to come by in NYC, so I'd have taken off. No way would I wake up naked and giggling here, but at least Miya would. ;)

LOL Fiona- I think LISA beat me out of that one though... ;D

At first I saw this and thought, "My God, the Soprano's are for real..." but then again, I could see myself hanging here with some buddies before going out on a Friday night. It's not my style but it's totally a bach pad and I think that was his intention. If so, you did well. Add some art to make it less sterile and I'd mix drinks here. "You's did a nice job."

This one hangs together brilliantly. While it's not exactly my style, it's a beautiful piece of work. the pops of red are a great touch -- I might add some art to personalize it more, but it *all* hangs together -- not something I'm seeing often enough!

Definitely a winner!

HEY! I was the naked and giggling one, not Miya.

so friggin fun.

Great place! Perfect "Butt-Hut" for bringing the babes. And the fish tank is super-cool! Lit up at night with a nice young lady with ya. What more could you want!?!

Sorry, Miya and Mia! You are right--I have to admit I just didn't read Lisa's post because it was so long. There will just have to be a babe pillowfight--or catfight--which is what this apartment is all about. I'm applying my acrylic nails with rhinestone art right now, girls, so watch out! ;)

Wonderful space. great indoor style. The clincher is the fishtank and the outdoor space.

It's an awesome pad, can I house sit when you're away?

Super Cool. Definitly a smooth pad for a young bachelor.

Great looking pad. I love it love love it. Very modern and looks like a great entertaining pad.

Super PIMP pad!!

Bathroom is nice. Especially love the little Rubber Ducky in the corner. Makes me just want to jump in the tub with the ducky and squeeze it while the Lavazza is brewing.

Overall, very nice work

Franks Pad is Red Hot!!!

wow! can you send me your cleaning lady's number?

This place would have been my dream place when I was in my twenties or thirties but since I'm old now it's kinda intimidating. It seems like if I was to visit, I'd have to bring Paris Hilton. It blows me away especially after looking at the others. It screams Heterosexual. I see you did get a good amount of bad votes. I got a hunch most of those votes came from gay men who got a whiff of your testosterone after seeing your killer pad! I'm not homophobic but lets be honest...most nicely designed places are done by gay men and by the looks of Frank's Custom place it seems clear that he's far from gay. There's nothing gay about his place. So here's a message for the gays. Don't hate on Frank just cause he's got great non-gay taste! Go Frank! And when are we hanging out?

Nobody's place is as interesting sharp as yours!!!

First place by far!!!

Its obvious he put alot of thought into utilizing every inch of space. Although expensive, I love how clean & simple it looks. It doesn't show gaudy at all! I think some art on the walls would tie in everything as well! Its great to see a man put such great detail into his "castle".

Job well done,
Michelle (california)

I love this apartment. The fishtank is so cool - great deisgn. The floors are beautiful and so is the kitchen.

love the kitchen... sweeeet

Fish tank, sweet!

DOWNTOWN CHIC MEETS BACHELOR HEAVEN. I am very impressed at the cleanliness and lack of clutter for such tight space. Love the kitchen; I think I saw Dualit toaster on the counter. That gets extra points!

How cool is that bed!!!! Love the earth tones and the few splashes of color!

It's super-cool! A bachelor pad, with a fabulous fish tank - what more could you want? Seriously, when you consider how small it is and how spacious it feels, this one's a winner. I love the fish tank, think the
bar is fun (very tongue-in-cheek), and the
outdoor space is something else. It all
adds up to summer in the city, and the only
suggestion I'd make is to get a nice flokati when the weather gets cold (although I'll bet that bare floor feels dreamy underfoot). PS> I'd love to have the name of your cleaning woman!

John-- I'm pretty sure "the gays" quite enjoy a whiff of testosterone.

Hmmm, seems like Frank and Lisa's friends are posting. Or maybe just Frank and Lisa over and over again.

"It screams heterosexual." LOL.

love you brother frank!!!

I've never seen an apartment try as hard as this one (and that's not a good thing). It's a 1980's Long Island version of Liesure Suit Larry run amok... Quite a shame considering that the apartment itself is really nice. Too bad the owner has no eye for decor.

hmm...

i've been learning about all this design stuff lately, since i apparently didn't inherit as a result of being gay, sorry, john. the most important thing i think i got out of it is that design isn't about good or bad, but about solving problems and expressing personality.

if the problem is getting laid, this is amazing design. =) tho it does kinda make me think of cooper from the travelocity commercial. seriously - i think this does a really good job being the setting for the person frank is, or wants to be.

i love fish, and yeah, he could have gone saltwater, but freshwater gives you some good variety and is a much smaller daily hassle. and maybe the budget was blown on the maple, granite, and booze.

i like the bathroom. i like the outdoor space but i would have done more with it. i like the kitchen, but i'd soften it up a little. lousy place to be hungover.

and i LOVE the phallic cacti in the sun. (bet THEY're comin down in a hurry!)

So I have no problems with this place in the contest , however with the recent surge in "super cool (winner)" votes I have to re raise a comment I made earlier.

So its 475 sq ft...and the out door space is 125 sq ft. Doesn't anyone else see a problem with this?

If not...that's fine.

CURSE YOU AT!...I'm addicted.

I really don't see why people think this apartment would get you laid. The only woman who would put out for this apartment must have a Noo Yawk accent, black roots in overbleached hair, and a tanning membership she uses every day. She's also chubby and wears Uggs and a ruffle miniskirt. Pretty much Britney Spears now that she's completely hit bottom (not the cute schoolgirl version) with a Staten Island accent.

Ok here's my 2 cents. Frank and I actually have some of the same tastes but vary wildly in others. I think some of the choices you made were great and some should have been thought over more. For example,the kitchen is terrific and your flooring is probably the envy of many on this site. Kudos. Your choice in bed is great as well. That is a beautiful piece of furniture.

But from one guy to another, what is with that couch? It's the antithesis for the sleekness of everything else you're trying to achieve. Same goes for the bar and the clutter under your TV. If you're going to gut a whole place out and start over from scratch, some thought should be placed on where to store or hide your misc belongings (i.e. the huge stash of liquor bottles, the clutter all around your tv and man don't get me started on cd towers). CD towers or walls are akin to those plastic milk crates we used in college. Two words; Custom built-ins.

If you're going to go through the trouble to mount the plasma to the wall, why not get a long sleek low table or console that can store your cds and help hide some of that clutter? Also in-wall speakers would help tremendously. When I viewed your slideshow and the first shot was the entryway, it just looked cold and devoid of personality. Obviously you do have a personality as evidenced by the rest of the place so I believe you just need to tweak your aesthetic taste and develop it further.

For me it isn't at all how much money you spent but how you spent it. If you had enough money to gut this place and start over, I would seriously have looked at slightly cheaper alternatives for flooring and tile for the bathroom and used the rest of the money to hire a professional really design your space or have built-ins that utilized the space more efficiently. Looking at your place I would say you're in your mid-20's, making good money but not necessarily having an aesthetic knowledge honed enough in making consistent design decisions. BUT, compared to most hetero boys I know, who can't even put dishes in the sink, kudos to you for achieving everything you did on your place.

John, i wonder if i'm not the only gay male with a bit of a crush on Frank.
;-)
people dissing others for "trying too hard" with their style makes me cringe.

The fish tank was a great idea. Unbelievable attention to detail throughout the whole apartment.

I don't unsderstand why people leave comments if they have nothing nice to say. Ever heard of the old that goes "If you have nothing nice to say then don't say it at all." I bet your little apartments/studios is not perfect either. Enough picking on people who think they're so much better than others.

Now let's get to the real deal. I love the way everything is set up in this place. The fish tank really adds a nice touch to the space. The bar area seems fine to me. I don't see why everyone is making a big deal out of that. The bathroom and kitchen is very eye catching.

Everyone is making a big deal the TV and the so called "clutter" underneath the T.V. it looks just fine to me. At least everything is neatly set up. I don't see records all over the floor. So what he has some stuff on the floor, but at least he has them neatly set up in crates. Sometimes it's better not to conform to whatever else other people are doing.

I don't know about you guys but I am rating this place an A+++.

P.S. People who critique others are very egocentric, and think that they're better than others.

SUPER COOL APARTMENT!!!!!!

I love the outdoor space and the guitar...I would definitely wanna live here over all the other apts!

Well laid out. I dig.

This apartment makes me wish I was a gay italian man. I'd date frank in a second...just for his apartment.

Well done.
Jeff

I love the clean lines and red accents everywhere. My favorite feature is the fish tank. It opens up and brings life to the space. Would also love to see a fountain and some foliage on the balcony.

Yes, yes, I understand the "bachelor pad" aesthetic. But it's NOT "throw a lot of gadgets and money at an empty space". This apartment reminds me of what a 14-year-old boy's fantasizes about where he will live when he grows up.

I agree, I'm sure this place gets the girls, but probably because they missed the ferry back to Staten Island.

Actual constructive critism- Paint the glaring white walls, lose the obnoxious Sopranos-style bar, and you've some good working material.

I think Frank has very good taste. The apartment is modern, fun, sleek and retro. I love how he utilize all the space. The colors are fabulous. For all the poeple who bashed his apartment,you have no sense of style.

Frank has very good taste! Extremely stylish solutions for the small apartment. I love it, super ultra cool!!!

I can't say I share Frank's taste, though the floor is nice (although maybe overly polyurethaned) and so is the outdoor space. The kitchen is also well done, and I like the backsplash. I'll just keep quiet about the furniture, especially the bar. At least Frank still has tons of high school friends who can post about how his apartment is totally awesome. I bet they also love Frank's Camaro.

~Marisa

Thats the funniest thing i've heard in a while...

"franks camaro"

I have to say that it amazes me how much conversations are taking place because of Frank's place. I've been reading a lot of the posts on many of the contestants and for whatever reason Frank's place has em all talking. So all I want to say is congratulations to Frank and his apartment because if something about it causes this much energy and that many people have invested their time to write so much about it, (mostly great & some negative)then that shows you have something special and you should be a potential winner. I agree with the guy who said most of the others look like catalog apartments. So true! Your place is the only one that stands out for it's originality and you should have not used a flash with your camera. There is no drama in those photos but they are clear enough to see how unique and beautiful your place is. Definitely the most fun place in the contest. Who cares if you did not move your subwoofer? Give me a break people! That should not take anything away from this slick pad. I just want you to know Frank that I only liked 2 apartmets. Yours and Patrick's. Patrick's photos are better than yours are but your place destroys his for several reasons. His looks like something I've seen a million times. I've never seen anything like your place ever. So strong and powerful! What do you do for a living if you don't mind me asking? I bet it's something creative.

You are the only one I voted "WINER" for. Congrats and good luck. You've inspired me lots.

Josh

Nicely stated Josh. I guess when there is so much to talk about, that means there's gotta be something special at hand. And there definitely is. I like Patrick's place too. I actually thought it was the winner by far until Frank listed his place on Wed or Thurs. It surprised me figuring many of the other do look like design treatments I have seen before several times. You can tell that Frank did not copy anything and he took little things from different things he probably saw. Well however he got to it, I'd just like to say bravo! Just figure out a better way to set up the stuff under the TV and get some plants for the outside and you are done. Don't listen to the people that tell you to put art up. That's actually what I loved most. That you did not plaster art everywhere. So typical of people to do that. While others zigged, you zagged and should take this contest hands down.

Clearly, more money than taste has been put into the "design" of this apartment. The colors don't really work together, the furniture doesn't really work together, and the whole place ends up feeling very sterile, like a furniture showroom, except not as livable. Clearly, the objects themselves and their suggestion of status or wealth mean more than the functional combination of objects or the emotional qualities of the materials used, etc.

One striking design aspect that could've had some money thrown into it is the use of unique and well thought out lighting. There are so many amazing lighting products today that I would've expected something nice in an apartment filled with so much expensive crap.

The way the bed is crammed into the space between the wall and the sofa thing doesn't work at all in terms of efficient use of a minimal amount of space. Maximizing space is an essential priority in a small apartment, and it looks like you tried to cram as much stuff in the room as possible.

First, the bed takes up more space than it should with that ledge on the sides and the sofa is much too big for the room.

Then the colors just don't work. That red is awful in contrast with the brown, metal, and black colors. And the browns aren't matched monochromatically or complementarily in any kind of way. There just doesn't seem to be any consideration for the color palette at all.

It doesn't take much to improve this room. Get rid of the white bedding, the red/white pillows, and get some nice bedding, nice pillows (anything Maharam, Paul Smith bespoke I like a lot, very masculine), put up a large framed something or other on the wall, some art, something, cut up your sofa and get something smaller, and invest in some lighting, and plan it out the lighting carefully. Red is a great color, but the way you use it is not effective. The red table is nice because it's subtle, and other little flashes of red, like an alarm clock, or a small photograph, or a lamp, would look nice.

Basically, your design message is muddled. Either go all out minimalist or go warm and cozy. Don't mix your messages. It's like pouring gravy on your ice cream.

Upon first glance it is great to see how much thought went into Frank's apartment. But I have to ditto Kelvin's comments exactly. Scream BACHELOR PAD. I like stainless, TOO much of a good thing. The flooring, wonderful. The material choices for the bathroom are not harmonious. And generally poor color selection all around. The only wall hanging is of course a television. I do like many of the individual pieces but together it just does not work.

Frank totally used this apartment to lure me in, with it's attractive design style and lush amenities. I'm a 12-year-old school girl.

I think Jenny said it best; this is what a teenage boy fantasizes living in when he's all grown up. None of the elements work together as a cohesive whole. And I'm sorry but however much you spent on the tile in that bathroom just doesn't work together and ends up looking like concrete blocks. It doesn't even look like it belongs in the same apartment with your stainless kitchen. I bet you that the majority of posters that didn't like this place work in some sort of design field. You have "some" nice pieces and some god awful ones but interior design isn't just about how much money you throw at it. It's about efficient use of space, cohesiveness and style. Perhaps there is so much discussion on this place because it straddles a line between flashes of cool and all out tackiness.

Weeeeeeerrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrddddddddddddd!!!

I am most intrigued by Franks place not because it's my favorite. (it's actually tied for second on my list) What I love about Frank's place is that it's the only one in this entire competition that seems to have created a lot of controversy and back & forth debates. That's what the best art does.

If you think of anything or anyone that's ever done anything important and meaningful, you will notice that anything truly creative stirs emotions in people. That's why Frank's apt is the most valuable entry in this competition. There is nothing like it at all. I do agree that lots of the others look like stuff I've seen. Frank took a chance and I think it can use a thing here and there and it's 90% there, but that might be enough to win this thing figuring how safe everyone else seems to have played it. Oh and next time, grab an art student anywhere to take the photos. No dram with the bright flash. But that's the point, it still looks pleasing and impressive.

And as far as the gay/straight thing goes, I'm a gay man and I'm also an artist and even I got by the cheesy bar. Why have a perfectly set up pub in your place when you can go cheesy fun? Why is the word "fun" not come up when people talk about homes? Sure I like several of the cozy other places if I want to watch TV then take a nap. Frank's place is obviously not for naps. That's why I love it!

Why do gay people have to be soo GAY and why do STRAIGHT people have to be so straight? Frank obviously knows how to put stuff together and has a strong design sense. He lacked in having too much stuff.

Another thing that impresses me is that so many of the places I do like have great living areas but ugly kitchens or bathrooms. Frank's is the only place that both kitchen & bath and living area are all beautiful. Very little consistency with almost all the others. So that alone makes me swing my vote to Frank. The contest is for apartment and not just living rooms right?

My solution is for Frank to work with a good gay designer and prevent him from being overly gay. Then you'll have the best of both worlds.

Frank, If I was a woman, I'd fall in love with you even if you have heavy baggage. Forget about the tie. You should win just because you did it in a new way!

Enough of the Gay vs. Straight crap. You should not give Frank credit just because he is not gay. Give him credit because his place is the most fun looking place in the entire contest and looks damn great and clean too. You got my vote man.

Frank, I'm on the verge of buying a place in Brooklyn. Let me know if you'd like to give me some pointers. I'll pay you. Honestly. Thanks and I hope you win because you should. Thanks

Like the fish tank. Place is well put together. Great attention to detail.

A super cool place. Love the fishtank by the bed. The 70's touch can get the ladies.

This thread is fascinating. Now I am wishing that AT would have a match-the-owner-to-the-apartment contest. I feel sure I could identify most of our contestants by their apartments, but who knows?

Frank, love the hard wood floors. good choice in furniture. Looks like an awsome pad

Love the fish tank!

i want this apartment.

Frank, Your place is to die for! Such powerful use of color in just the right doses. Your style and design is so controlled and sophisticated. I've read just about all the feedback you have received and it surprises me that some people just don't get it.

You should win without any competition because the other nice places are not consistent like yours and they do look like catalog apartments that go down that same boring road taking no chances.

They say a place says something about it's owner. Judging by your taste in decor, I'm sure that you are by far the most interesting person in this competition because your place destroys every other one in this contest hands down without a close second place finisher. The name of this contest should be called "Who came in second place after Frank."

Can I come over? Seriously. Jess

I'm happy Frank's place finally got it's well deserved share of "Winner" votes. I'm sure most of the contestants tell their friends to vote for them but and that's cool I guess but what pisses me off is how obvious it is that several of the other contestants that are jealous of Frank's place told their friends to give him bad votes. You know who you are!!! There was a surge of bad votes in the beginning and now that the contest is coming to an end they slowed down and Frank's "Winner" votes finally tell the whole story.

I know this is the first year of this contest but it's disapointing to see tricks played like this. Personally I enjoy looking at the photos and reading the feedback instead of looking at the manipulated scores.

One thing is for sure. This is the clear winner and there's no way it received that many bad votes fair & square. Frank, you're place is too original no to win.

I could not say it better than the person who said that this is the only place that's consistent. So true! No one else has the entire combination of a kitchen, bathroom and living area as beautifully done as this place. Not to mention a killer terrace. Oh and a fish tank in the wall above the bed? Kick ass!

Man if those fish could talk?

i won't comment on the crib, because i won't say anything nice... but these have been the most entertaining postings so far. i can't get enough of these comments.

Dan, funny you should post that because it seems obvious to me that many of the latest postings are by Frank's friends. Some of you are posting under different aliases (who on earth uses the term destroy in a fun competition like this?)

I have posted the positives that I found in this apt but I can see negatives and can see why ppl would vote against it. I don't think that the negative votes were by other entrants friends because there are enough elements of this place to polarize opinions. Also, where are all the negative votes for the other places? I do believe the rush of positive votes are from Frank's friends. Nothing wrong with that but they could make more effort with their comments which are almost comical in their transparent sycophancy.

I must say that I agree entirely with jamie pup on his last posting... but you know what? i also agree with fiona--this thread is fascinating and i'd love to play match the apartment with the owner.

I wouldn't at all be surprised if it's not Frank's friends who are stuffing the ballot boxes with "Super Cool" votes (as well as posting comments) but rather Frank himself. All you have to do is delete your browser's cookies, and then you can vote as many times as you want for a place.

Because of this, I hope when the smackdown comes, Frank isn't one of the finalists because I think this isn't in the spirit of the competition.

Hey m, I don't agree that it's Frank himself posting here, because none of these comments are in all caps.

SHUT UP ALL OF YOU NEGATIVE PEOPLE. FRANK IS A DEAR FRIEND OF MINE, AND HIS APARTMENT ROCKS.

That's so insulting to make allegations for things you don't know for sure. These votes don't count for anything. Judges vote in the end. These posts suppose to be a fun way to interact so everyone can learn and also be inspired. Why are so many people insulting others and getting defensive?

The bigger question is, Why isn't this happening with any of the other entries? Just give Frank's place the win already. If this many people must devote their time vamping their opinions, then there's something special going on.

Lets have fun. There's not a million dollar prize or anything.

I agree Dan, this is all in fun but you were the first one to make allegations for things you don't know for sure.
Looks like most ppl already thought the way I did - it was really for the benefit of Frank's friends that I wrote that. The rest of us will stay happily amused at how these comments keep turning out.

I LOVE FRANK!!!! WOOOOOO! HE ROCKS!!!

i'm sorry for getting pompous about thirty posts ago.
the mockery of Frank bugged me.
i just felt that a place which reflects a character or an exciting life can be as praise-worthy as one where everything is considered so correct.

The best design is simple and that's why this place is my favorite. I love the way this place is minimal as far as the walls go. You get a sense of the space and colors more this way. Lots of the other places are way too cluttered with junk. I agree with the several posts that said the entertainment center area has too much but it is set up neatly. Frank, you really should try and hide that sub. That will make everything under the TV look more symetrical.

You'll get plenty of points for that Bathroom and Kitchen which are both nicer than any of the other 29. The living area is great too but you should get rid of that ottoman and put a little coffee table and rug to warm it up and make it feel cozy. These are things you can easily do without much trouble and I think they will make a big difference.

Where is the water fountin you mentioned? Photos are way too bright and I can tell you used a flash. Never use a flash with interiors. You lose all the drama of the lighting. Why did you not include a nice close-up of the fish tank area? Fish tank in the wall is killer! You should have photographed it better.

Well I think you should have a great chance of winning. You've got too many things that make your place the coolest. You've got my vote!

Justin

OMG, 414 supercool votes and 90% of the positive comments are basically written in the same voice. Too funny.

so cool cause it is a small space that seems so uncluttered -- love the outdoor space -- makes it seem double the size

frank's attention to detail is unbelievably great.
the bathroom is my favorite -- he has a great sense of design

Love your place. This one is one of the 3 that I really like. I like each of the three for totally different reasons. One of the others is very comfy. The other is very detailed. Yours just seems like I'd have the best time there. I voted Super-cool for all three. Well good luck. You should do well Frank.

"THEY GET TO THE BED AREA AND THAT'S WHEN I GET ALL THE QUESTIONS."

You get points for candor, and your superb design sense.

Questions like "Oh my god, how much did I have to drink?!?" and "Where the #@%^ AM I?"

And "How did you get the rufie in my drink?"

wooden floors are way easier to clean than carpeting.

This is the best set of comments that I've read in a long time.

I think that the apartment is truly horrible but in an amazing way. It reallllly isn't my style, but its incredibly consistent in its choices, and to do the 70s playboy pad thing so bluntly takes balls.