Clarity Therapy New York City: Wellness interior design for psychotherapy practice
The McGovern Project-designed space uses decor to focus on wellness and reflect a calming atmosphere.
By Karine Monie -
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In the NoMad neighbourhood, the 3,014 sq ft Clarity Therapy NYC occupies a building built in 1892. Originally a hotel designed by George Edward Harding & Gooch, the structure was a replica of Holland House in London. While still maintaining the architectural glory of its past, especially on the exterior, it is now a commercial office building.
“We were engaged to create a high-end residential feel for a boutique psychotherapy practice,” says Chris McGovern, founder of McGovern Project. The interior designer worked with Dr Logan Jones, founder of Clarity Therapy NYC, to shape seven therapy suites and a reception area in a harmonious colour scheme.
Director, owner and founder of Clarity Therapy NYC Dr Logan Jones (left) with interior designers Helen Ng and Chris McGovern.
“While most therapists were abandoning their offices and many clients were reevaluating their lives in New York City, I wanted to think of the future and how we could be of service to our community,” shares Logan.
The project's objectives were to preserve the building's history and charm through architectural details while adapting the spaces to meet functional needs, thus creating a relaxing and timeless aesthetic, and striking a balance between urban and coastal living.
To ensure privacy, Chris took special care to soundproof the space and used durable textiles such as custom-cut indoor/outdoor sisal rugs for high traffic areas and body-inclusive furnishings to accommodate bodies of all sizes.
“Mirrors were an important design element to add depth and enhance natural light reflection throughout the space,” says the interior designer. “They were carefully placed on the walls to ensure patients weren’t distracted by their reflection during sessions.”
Decorative overhead fixtures, wall sconces, and architectural lighting provide varied environments, while the therapists chose artworks that were both insightful and soothing. A variety of images featuring water and shorelines adorn the rooms, evoking the endless horizon and constantly changing nature of the ocean.
Though there is visual coherence throughout, there are also individually themed rooms with colours and patterns that play a key role. For example, the Navy Room has dark navy walls. Textiles and decorative objects in the Malibu Room are reminiscent of beaches and striped umbrellas.
In every nook, the serene atmosphere is an invitation to a meditative state, even in the city described as the one that never sleeps. Through this project dedicated to wellness, Chris demonstrates the importance of interior design to improve mental health with techniques that could work in any space, including at home.
Taking time to unwind, breathe, and feel good is now more important than ever.
For more information, visit Clarity Therapy.
Photography by Kylie Fitts