APARTMENT FOR A BIG FAMILY
The layout of this apartment features windows on three sides of the building. However, the small size and the proportions of the elongated rectangle made any transformations quite challenging.
A young family with two daughters needed a shared children's bedroom and a playroom, which could later be transformed into a separate bedroom. The main request from our clients was a large communal space for socializing. They also wanted, if possible, to combine the master bedroom with the bathroom and office, and to organize storage spaces and a guest toilet near the entrance.
PARENTS BEDROOM AND BATHROOM
We proposed to "bring daylight" into the master bathroom. To achieve this, we removed the partition below the balcony window, creating a floor-to-ceiling opening. The glazing of the balcony and the radiator in the floor allowed us to keep the bedroom warm, while natural light was introduced into the bathroom, which is separated from the bedroom by a glass partition.
The interplay between the bathroom and the bedroom is a central theme in the decor. The shared wall is adorned with green marble, and the headboard of the bed extends into the bathroom, visually unifying the two spaces. The bathroom mirror reflects the marble into infinity and captures daylight, filling the space with natural light. The bed area is highlighted by a soft, fabric headboard designed according to our sketch. The geometric, slightly Eastern pattern of thin plaster moldings on the ceiling and the minimalist plaster frieze on the wall organize and center the chandelier placement above the bed. This design also enables hidden ceiling lighting and concealed textile mounting on both sides of the bed, adding a touch of theatricality to the interior.
The bedroom furniture is custom-made. The use of modern materials and smooth, rounded lines ensures comfort and adds a touch of sophistication through the quality of craftsmanship.
Special attention should be given to the lighting selection in this room. The bedside sconces and chandelier with brass and black details evoke the 20th century, the Art Deco era, and contribute warmth and coziness. In contrast, the bathroom fixtures with matte globes and black bases are sleek and contemporary.
In the adjoining study, the custom-made bookshelf and desk, also designed according to our sketches, are noteworthy. The oak veneer, arranged diagonally, creates a remarkable decorative effect with minimal means by subdividing its proportions. The bookshelf becomes a significant element of the interior, while the desk, integrated into the window's corner bay, features convenient pull-out drawers. The quality of craftsmanship has been validated by excellent recommendations from the manufacturer.
Returning to the layout, an important detail is worth noting. The master bedroom offers excellent sound insulation due to its design and three doors. The wardrobe doors slide into the wall and are typically left open. This setup gives the apartment a feel reminiscent of pre-revolutionary apartment layouts with enfilades. When privacy is needed for work, the doors can be closed, isolating the study and bedroom from the rest of the apartment’s noise. Thus, on weekend mornings, children can play loudly without fear of disturbing their parents.
PUBLIC SPACE
The living room is combined with the kitchen, creating a spacious area for the entire family. The focal point of this space is the peninsula bar, which serves as a highly functional and ergonomic work area. Almost all essential appliances are conveniently located nearby, allowing the homeowners to enjoy cooking in their new kitchen.
The countertop is crafted from four pieces of Brazilian quartzite, Blue Roma, showcasing an unusually picturesque veining pattern. We also utilized a portion of this material economically for shelves and window sills. The bar and dining chairs, with their transparent backs, allow light to pass through and create a harmonious and fitting complement to the interior.
Initially, the bay window posed significant challenges. We had to insulate it, fix leaks, and replace the glazing units. To resolve these issues without sacrificing space, we opted to decorate the bay with porcelain stoneware. Combined with slender gypsum moldings that separate the bay from the main walls of the apartment and a flat frieze around the perimeter, the stoneware in the bay has become a true decorative element. The frieze on the wall under the ceiling unifies the living room's interior, while the bookcase niches become integrated furniture elements.
The three interior doors adjacent to each other, devoid of moldings and painted to match the wall color, along with the modular dimensions of all niches and partitions, ensure that this part of the living room does not feel visually cluttered. A decorative mirror with an aged Venetian glass effect is positioned between two niches, complemented by a vintage light fixture in the center.
The living room is equipped with a home theater system featuring a ceiling-mounted screen that descends via an electric drive. Additionally, ceiling-mounted tracks with technical lighting allow for customizable lighting scenarios throughout the day.
