How to Add Custom Steel to a Small NYC Apartment

A touch of custom steel can enhance any living space. But in a New York City apartment, a modern metal flourish can elevate the sense of style and functionality. Whether you’re introducing a trim privacy shield or shelving, you’ll end up with a visually pleasing addition.

Keep reading as we explore how to add custom steel to even the smallest NYC apartment. 

Know That Less Is More

While you might be tempted to add several metal elements to your apartment, don’t overdo it. You’re better off selecting a single steel piece to accent a small space. That way, you won’t crowd your apartment or compete with existing architectural elements or furniture. 

Opt for a simple steel partition to define an eating area, for instance. Or stack industrial steel shelves on a living room wall to create an eye-catching display area for your favorite books. Sketch a few options and take accurate measurements before investing in materials. 

Be Careful with Installation

Yes, metal can tolerate a lot of weight. But even so, you’ll need to be mindful of how you install any steel shelves that will hold items. After all, you don’t want to jeopardize pottery or framed photos with an unstable shelf. 

Make sure you’re using anchors and drilling into studs. If you’re adding a steel ladder to access a loft, know how much weight the ladder can safely hold. 

When in doubt, consult an experienced contractor so you’re not compromising your safety or the structure of your building. You may need to get permission from the building manager, too, for more extensive structural changes. Ultimately, you’ll need to meet NYC building codes before moving forward with a bigger project. 

Consider Hiring a Professional 

If you’re comfortable installing wall anchors and doing some basic drilling, you may be able to tackle a custom steel project on your own. But if you’re not handy, it’s best to outsource installation to a pro. 

A skilled professional can safely and securely install a ladder, shelf, or partition. For more robust projects, they’ll have the necessary welding experience to tackle careful installation. You can learn more about welding training here.

Set a Clear Budget

Scope creep can cause budgets to balloon quickly when you’re dealing with custom projects. That’s why it’s smart to set a budget and account for shifting costs. 

In general, you can expect to pay at least a few hundred dollars to install some steel shelves in a small apartment. This cost includes both materials and labor. For bigger projects, like partitions or ladders, that number can head north of $1,000.

Know that you may have to be patient, too. The best professional installers will be in demand in NYC. Plan on waiting several weeks before work can begin. 

Elevate Your NYC Apartment

Ultimately, steel elements can give your apartment a decorative edge. Add slim shelves to display cookbooks or travel souvenirs. Or add a sleek steel partition or ladder to give your space more structure.

With a careful approach, you can integrate a steel feature that stands out without overwhelming your space.