How Jesse Johnson Made an Apartment in ‘Mad’ Magazine’s Former SoHo Office Feel Like a Plush City Refuge

Architectural Digest

by Ian Volner

February 26, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Jesse Johnson’s first New York City project transforms a former Mad magazine office space in Manhattan’s SoHo neighborhood into a plush, inviting home that embraces its industrial history. Known primarily as an actor, musician, and hustler, Johnson has now added designer to his resume, creating a two-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bathroom apartment that balances modern comfort with the building’s structural quirks. From exposed sprinkler systems to a hulking steel beam in the bathroom, Johnson has turned these architectural challenges into design highlights, celebrating their industrial charm while integrating plush, refined finishes. The apartment features a mix of moody and inviting spaces, such as a kitchen with merlot-colored cabinetry and matching tile, offset by bronze accents and straw-backed chairs. In the dining area, Johnson designed a custom banquette to wrap around a tricky wall protrusion, while the bathroom showcases an exposed steel beam that was left uncovered to emphasize its industrial character. This approach reflects Johnson’s philosophy of letting the space “be itself” while creating a serene refuge in the heart of the city. Throughout the apartment, Johnson has incorporated elements like 12-foot ceilings, sweeping views, and a north-south enfilade that doubles as an art gallery. The corridor is lined with skyline vistas, featuring a green-tinged palette, European white oak floors, and a Nordic Knots Grand rug in Milano Green. A Thorens record player with JBL speakers and custom millwork add to the room’s refined, almost temple-like atmosphere. The project also highlights Johnson’s ability to adapt to different design challenges. While his previous work focused on beachy bungalows, this NYC apartment required a more structured approach, balancing industrial elements with plush finishes to create a calm, composed space. This blend of old and new, combined with the building’s storied history, makes the apartment not just a home but a unique piece of design art. For readers interested in design, this project showcases how structural oddities can be transformed into creative opportunities, blending industrial elements with luxury finishes to create a cohesive, inviting space. Jesse Johnson’s approach demonstrates the importance of adaptability and innovation in interior design, making this apartment not just a home but a testament to the power of thoughtful design.

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Originally published on Architectural Digest on 2/26/2026