Prewar Manhattan apartments possess a romance that newer buildings simply cannot replicate—the gracious proportions, the sculpted moldings, the patinated hardwood floors worn by generations. But transforming these storied spaces into contemporary homes requires an architect’s sensitivity: honoring the craftsmanship of the past while quietly integrating the comfort, performance, and luxury expected today. Here is how MANNINO approaches the delicate balance between preservation and reinvention.
Read MoreHistoric Elegance, Modern Performance: Reimagining Prewar Apartments in the Upper East Side and West Village
Prewar apartments in the Upper East Side and West Village offer timeless architecture, but modern living requires thoughtful updates. This guide explores how MANNINO blends historic elegance with contemporary performance through improved layouts, custom millwork, integrated systems, and authentic materials—resulting in homes that honor their past while functioning beautifully for today.
Read MoreThe Art of the Manhattan Gut Renovation: What It Really Takes to Transform a Prewar Apartment
Prewar apartments carry a timeless elegance—but transforming them for modern living requires expertise, sensitivity, and a deep understanding of New York’s architectural fabric. This guide explores the full process of a Manhattan gut renovation, from navigating co-op boards to integrating millwork, materials, infrastructure, and design into one cohesive vision.
Read MoreHow to Plan a Thoughtful New York City Townhouse Renovation
Renovating a New York City townhouse is both an art and a logistical challenge. This guide outlines how to plan a thoughtful renovation—from zoning and structure to craftsmanship and light—so your home honors its history while meeting modern life.
Read MoreHow Much Does It Actually Cost to Build a Custom Home in Greater New York (2025 Edition)
Building a custom home in Greater New York is an art form — balancing architectural vision, craftsmanship, and cost. Learn what shapes pricing and why a Feasibility Study is the smartest first step toward building with certainty.
Read MoreLow-Carbon Luxury: The New Standard in High-End Homebuilding (2025 Edition)
Luxury and sustainability are no longer separate ideas. Discover how MANNINO is defining a new era of Low-Carbon Luxury—where timeless design meets responsible innovation through materials like low-carbon concrete, mass timber, and high-efficiency electrification.
The New Language of American Luxury Homes: 2025 Trends Shaping High-End Residential Architecture
From the rolling hills of California wine country to the coastal enclaves of the Hamptons, high-end residential architecture in the United States is in the midst of a quiet revolution. Today’s luxury homes are less about ostentation and more about enduring beauty, wellness, and environmental responsibility—designed to be lived in, cherished, and passed down.
Read MoreThe Complete Guide to Building a Custom Home in New Jersey (2025 Edition) →
Building a custom home in New Jersey is a rewarding but complex journey. Our 2025 guide breaks down the process—from land acquisition and design to permitting, construction, and move-in—offering expert insights to help you build with confidence and clarity.
Read MoreThe Architect as Builder: Why Design-Build Leads to Better Homes
In the world of custom homebuilding, the design-build model is gaining traction—but not all design-builds are created equal. At RS Mannino, we take it a step further. As architects who also build, we offer a uniquely integrated approach where vision, craftsmanship, and execution speak the same language from day one.
Read MoreFrom Flat to Vaulted: The Transformational Power of Ceiling Design
At RS Mannino, we believe ceilings are more than a finish—they’re a quiet expression of proportion, scale, and intention. This blog explores how vaulted ceilings can completely transform a space, with a spotlight on our #UnderTheGabledGreen project.
Read MoreThe Case for Walnut: Why Richer Woods Are Replacing White Oak in Luxury Interiors
White oak has shaped the visual language of contemporary interiors for more than a decade. But a quiet shift is underway. Designers and architects are rediscovering the depth, warmth, and legacy of darker woods—particularly walnut. At RS Mannino, we embraced this evolution in our #StoneManor project, where walnut floors, millwork, and ceilings brought elegance and gravity to every room, culminating in a showstopping space we call the Jewel Box.
Read MoreBeyond Drywall: Elevating Interiors with Texture and Luxury
Drywall has long been the default in residential construction, but in high-end design, flat surfaces feel uninspired. This article explores how materials like wallpaper, millwork, artisanal plaster, limewash, and fluted detailing can add depth, character, and architectural elegance to your home. Thoughtfully layered textures transform walls from background elements into focal points—imbuing spaces with warmth, shadow play, and timeless luxury.
Read MoreWho Does What? Clarifying Roles in a Custom Residential Project
High-end residential projects involve a network of professionals—architects, interior designers, engineers, and more. This article explores how responsibilities are typically divided across disciplines, how these roles have evolved, and why establishing clarity early on leads to better design, smoother execution, and more thoughtful homes.
Read MoreThe Hidden Complexity of Renovating a Manhattan Luxury Apartment
Renovating a luxury apartment in Manhattan is anything but straightforward. From restrictive alteration agreements to seasonal construction blackouts, the process demands far more than design—it requires foresight, precision, and deep knowledge of how buildings operate in NYC.
Read MoreBudgeting for Your Custom Home or Renovation: The True Cost of a Successful Project
Learn how to properly budget for a custom home or renovation by understanding not just construction costs, but the full picture—including design fees, consultant costs, and furnishings.
Read MoreBeing an Architect vs. Being a Design-Builder
"Being an Architect is like writing a recipe but never getting to cook it. Being a design-builder is writing the recipe and cooking in the kitchen." At RS Mannino, we believe that great design shouldn’t stop at the drawing board. As a design-build firm, we oversee the entire process—ensuring that the vision we create is the one you experience. Learn why this approach results in better homes, smoother processes, and unparalleled craftsmanship.
Read MoreBuilding a Luxury Custom Home in New Jersey: Navigating Regulations & Permits
Excerpt:
Building a custom home in one of New Jersey’s luxury home communities is an exciting opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind residence, but navigating the complex web of zoning laws, permit requirements, and community regulations can be overwhelming. Understanding key factors such as lot size restrictions, environmental considerations, and HOA guidelines is essential for a smooth process. At RS Mannino, we specialize in guiding homeowners through these intricacies, ensuring compliance while maintaining design excellence. Learn how to overcome common challenges and streamline your path to building a luxury home in New Jersey’s most prestigious communities.
Read MoreThe Art of Legacy Homes: Designing for Generations
Excerpt:
In a world where trends fade, true luxury endures. A legacy home is more than just a residence—it’s a testament to timeless craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and a vision that spans generations. At RS Mannino, we merge tradition with innovation to create homes that honor architectural heritage while embracing modern functionality. From masterful craftsmanship to future-proofing for evolving needs, we design spaces that stand the test of time. Discover the art of legacy homes and how we bring lasting visions to life.
Read MoreFrom Concept to Completion: A Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Dream Home or Major Renovation
From Concept to Completion: A Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Dream Home or Major Renovation
At RS Mannino, we offer a seamless, architect-led design-build experience for new homes and major renovations, ensuring every phase—from concept to completion—is meticulously planned and executed. Our integrated approach aligns architecture, interior design, construction, and estate management, eliminating inefficiencies and delivering a truly turnkey luxury home.
✔ Strategic Planning & Budget Control – We provide updated control estimates at every phase to keep your project aligned with your investment.
✔ Fast-Tracked Permits & Procurement – Our parallel process allows for faster approvals while refining design details.
✔ FF&E Services for a Move-In-Ready Home – We curate custom furniture, lighting, and styling for a fully finished space.
✔ Estate Management & Maintenance – Long-term home care to protect your investment.
Ready to build or transform your home? Contact us today to discuss your vision.
Read MoreWhat Is Full-Service Design? Why It Matters for Your Luxury Home
What Is Full-Service Design? Why It Matters for Your Luxury Home
At RS Mannino, we offer a seamless, architect-led full-service design approach that integrates architecture, interior design, and construction under one roof. From custom millwork to bespoke furnishings, our team ensures that every detail is curated and executed with precision—resulting in a home that is not only beautifully designed but also move-in ready.
Our process includes:
✔ Architectural Design & Master Planning – Creating a cohesive vision tailored to your lifestyle.
✔ Interior Selections & Custom FF&E Design – Sourcing and designing custom furniture, lighting, textiles, and accessories for a truly personalized home.
✔ Construction & Millwork Execution – Ensuring seamless integration between design intent and craftsmanship.
By choosing a full-service design-build firm, you benefit from a streamlined process, enhanced quality control, and a stress-free experience—all while achieving a home that is timeless, sophisticated, and uniquely yours.
Ready to bring your vision to life? [Contact us today](#) to learn how our full-service approach can transform your home.
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