Discovering Home: A "Tree House" in the Heart of Manhattan
From Transient Life to Permanent Roots: Mason Gooding's Journey to Manhattan Homeownership
Having grown up in Los Angeles and frequently visiting his father, Cuba Gooding Jr., on various film sets, actor Mason Gooding didn't have a single permanent residence during his youth. As his own acting career blossomed with roles in HBO's Ballers, Olivia Wilde's Booksmart, and the Scream series, he continued a nomadic lifestyle. However, as he neared his 30th birthday, Gooding felt a desire to establish roots and purchase his first home. Surprisingly, it wasn't the City of Angels that captivated him, but rather the bustling energy of Manhattan.
The Allure of the Big Apple: Finding a Home Amidst Urban Greenery
Gooding's decision to settle in New York was fueled by his deepening appreciation for culture, a connection he fostered during his time at NYU. After searching extensively on Zillow, his manager presented him with an apartment listing that seemed almost too good to be true. This roughly 650-square-foot space, though in need of refurbishment, boasted an enchanting view of a neighboring courtyard, reminiscent of a serene "tree house." Gooding eagerly seized the opportunity to invest in this urban sanctuary.
Collaborating with a Visionary: Redefining Design with Claudia Roth
Acknowledging his limited expertise in interior design, Gooding promptly enlisted the talents of Claudia Roth from Claudia Allegra Interiors. Roth, however, commends his discerning eye. She notes that the apartment, in its initial state, demanded a significant amount of imagination to envision its potential, especially considering the outdated bathroom and kitchen. Gooding's ability to see beyond the imperfections and recognize the inherent charm of the space was crucial to the project's success.
A Palette of Bold Choices: Embracing Color and Character
In their initial design consultation, Gooding expressed his desire for a space that exuded both comfort and intrigue, citing the Ralph Lauren store in SoHo as inspiration. This prompted Roth to explore daring color schemes and patterns, and Gooding proved to be an adventurous client. Roth recalls that he was never hesitant to incorporate vibrant hues, often encouraging bolder choices, such as deep browns and a striking green for the fireplace, even when more subdued options were presented.
Transforming Spaces: From Rustic to Refined
The apartment's original small, wood-paneled kitchen underwent a dramatic metamorphosis, emerging as a rich, aubergine-toned gem. Similarly, the bathroom was reimagined into a sophisticated, moody retreat. The once-oversized living room fireplace was streamlined to maximize space, with its green tiles serving as a bold focal point. Custom millwork was integrated throughout the apartment, concealing radiators and air conditioners while providing extensive shelving in the second bedroom, which Gooding now utilizes as a cozy den.
Preserving History: A Blend of Past and Present
Amidst the extensive renovations, certain historical elements of the apartment were carefully preserved. The diamond-patterned living room windows, initially slated for replacement by a real estate broker, were deemed irreplaceable by Roth for their unique character. The original glass and brass doorknobs, described by Roth as "dainty and unexpected," were also maintained, adding to the apartment's charm. Gooding views his new home as a fresh start, yet deeply values its connection to the past, a sentiment he articulated as the "past making its way or reinventing itself into the future." As a memento of the apartment's previous life, he carefully saved a lemon-adorned tile from the old kitchen, a small piece of history to cherish.
A Sanctuary for Analog Pleasures: The Record Collector's Nook
In the dining area, a quaint analog nook was thoughtfully created beneath the historic windows. Initially considered as a bar by Roth, Gooding, who prefers not to drink much, envisioned it as a dedicated space for his prized Frank Ocean records and the rest of his extensive music collection. He reflected on a previous move where he had to part with many records, but now, with this dedicated space, he has no plans to cease collecting. For Gooding, a record player symbolizes a cherished connection to the past and the analog world.
A Place to Call Home: Comfort and Shared Moments
Mason Gooding finds immense satisfaction in returning to his Manhattan apartment, especially after travels for work or visits to his girlfriend in Austin. The space, he says, is a "physical manifestation" of himself. The once cramped kitchen, where only one person could fit, now comfortably accommodates both Gooding and his girlfriend, who enjoy cooking together. He humorously notes that while she does most of the cooking, he diligently handles the cleanup, striving to be helpful.