Though the owner of this two-bedroom classic six on Central Park West chose to do a design refresh rather than a gut renovation, skilled contractor crews still needed to do the work.

So when acclaimed photographer and artist Sandi Fellman, working as the designer, came up with a beautiful update of the bedroom, bathroom, and den, she asked me to partner with her to hire and manage the team that could execute it—including refinishing the floors, replacing the vanity and sink, and having a custom wall unit built.

Blue-gray walls, rich ebony floors, bright new window and lamp shades, and fluffy bedding make the bright master bedroom a calm haven, far from its peach-soaked former life. A sleek, clean-lined custom built-in, designed and built by Cabinet Maker NYC of Prowood, Inc., brings the den/guest room out of the dark and into the 21st century. A new vanity, clean tiles, refinished original Art Deco tub, and a custom-made antique mirror turn the aged bathroom into a stunning new modern-meets-vintage space. The result is a calm and luxurious retreat that the homeowner hopes will be her sanctuary forever.

BEDROOM, AFTER

BEDROOM, AFTER

BEDROOM, BEFORE: The 1990s-era decor was dated, making the bedroom look like it belonged in an old hotel.

DEN, AFTER: A custom bookcase brightens the once dark and dated room, while accommodating modern media.

DEN, BEFORE: Dim lighting and outdated paint effects made this library space seem claustrophobic and dingy.

BATHROOM, AFTER: A new vanity and light, refinished tub, professionally cleaned tiles, and a dramatic antique mirror pull the elements of this bathroom together into a modern space.

BATHROOM, BEFORE: The period bathroom needed refreshing without a total remodel.