When fledgling interior designer and first-time home buyer Augusta Hoffman was looking for a slice of New York to call her own, she had her sights set on Manhattan’s East Village, for its vibrant soul and historic architecture. But, Hoffman says with a laugh, “Of course, I found a place that was the antithesis of that.” The abode in question, a contemporary, new-construction condo, lacked the prewar charm of its neighbors, but Hoffman saw potential in its bare walls, open-concept kitchen, and tall ceilings and opted to take the plunge. “It was the perfect blank canvas,” she says. A bright red runner greets guests in the entry hall of Augusta Hoffman’s Manhattan apartment. Built-in shelves and cabinets provide much-needed storage.