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A New Chapter: Erika Jones and Her Daughters’ Transformation in New York City

The relocation of Erika Jones and her two daughters, Gigi and Valentina, represents more than just a geographical move from New Jersey to New York City’s Upper East Side. It symbolizes a significant emotional transition as they embark on a new journey as an independent family unit.

A seasoned real estate developer specializing in affordable housing, Jones spent considerable time exploring apartments along Park and Lexington avenues. Her goal was to find a home that was conveniently located near her daughters’ school. However, when she discovered a high-floor apartment on Fifth Avenue with views of Central Park in a prewar building close to Museum Mile, she realized it was a standout opportunity amidst the limited offerings available.

The apartment had its quirks; it was a former amalgamation of two smaller units that left behind some design irregularities—awkward ceiling soffits, misaligned wall bump-outs, and mismatched wood floors. Nonetheless, Jones understood that with the scarcity of options, she would need to mold the space into her vision. Reflecting on her experience, she noted, “At the time there was limited inventory, so I understood that I was going to have to create for myself the space I wanted to live in.”

In her quest to transform the apartment, Jones reached out to designer Corey Damen Jenkins, recognized in the AD100 list. His maximalist style and inspiring personal story of rising from humble beginnings in Detroit to achieving success in New York resonated strongly with her. “I loved how he bootstrapped himself in Detroit and then moved to the big city of New York and was able to be successful here too,” Jones recalled. She saw a parallel between his journey and her own evolving narrative of resilience and transformation.

Originally, the renovation plans encompassed updates of the kitchen and bathrooms along with some cosmetic enhancements. However, as partnerships developed and ideas flourished during design consultations, Jenkins encouraged Jones to see the potential for a complete overhaul of the space. “I looked myself in the mirror,” she explained, “and said, ‘You know, if I’m not going to live how I want to live now, when am I going to do it? What am I waiting for?’” With that realization, Jones decided to embrace a full-scale transformation of her home, marking a significant milestone in her and her daughters’ new life chapter.

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