In a notable real estate move, Alfonso Cobo, a 32-year-old tech entrepreneur, has sold his meticulously renovated Tribeca loft for $6.9 million. This transaction highlights the blend of modern design and strategic financial decisions.
Originally acquiring the three-bedroom apartment in 2022 for $4.6 million, Cobo invested an additional $1 million to transform the space into a single-bedroom bachelor pad. His vision was driven by a desire to create a space aligned with his minimalistic yet textured design preferences. The old Tribeca warehouse conversion, dating back to the 1880s, was initially unremarkable, described by Cobo as lacking warmth and personality.
Cobo, who has an architectural background but primarily identifies as a designer, collaborated with British designer Helena Clunies Ross. Their partnership resulted in a high-end renovation that personalized 80% of the apartment’s interiors and furnishings. The design features a mix of Mediterranean influences and unique, high-quality materials, reflecting Cobo’s taste, which defies the stereotypical ‘sad beige’ aesthetic often linked to his generation.
Among the apartment’s standout features is a dramatic 16-foot olive tree, installed with the help of a crane. This addition brought an earthy feel to the modern space, integrating a natural element into the urban environment. Cobo’s renovation choices, such as removing two bedrooms to create a more versatile living space, catered to his current lifestyle needs, emphasizing social interaction and a personal retreat from NYC’s fast pace.
The sale of the apartment, facilitated by real estate agent Jessica Markowski from NYC firm Serhant, marks one of Manhattan’s priciest single-bedroom sales this year, a testament to the property’s unique appeal. Despite parting with the loft, Cobo remains committed to his passion for designing and renovating homes worldwide. His future projects span locations in the US, Bali, and Spain, reflecting his ongoing pursuit of innovative design solutions.
Cobo’s decision to sell was motivated by his increasingly bi-coastal lifestyle, as he divides his time between New York and California. This move allows him to focus on his new tech venture and pursue further renovation projects through his real estate company, Olivar.
Alfonso Cobo’s journey with the Tribeca loft underscores his dual passions for technology and design. While he has left behind a significant personal project in New York, his future endeavors promise to bring his unique vision to more spaces globally. Cobo continues to embody the spirit of innovation and creativity as he embarks on new paths in both technology and real estate.
Source: Businessinsider
