Garden flat in Lyon photographed before and after a party

French studio Dank Architectes undertook the renovation of a 160-square-meter garden flat located in a residential area near Lyon, France. The objective was to transform the existing structure into an open-plan apartment suitable for a couple with two children, aiming for a loft-conversion style with efficient space utilization. The architectural approach focused on creating a more dynamic and less static representation of the completed project in its photographic documentation, opting to stage scenes depicting the days before and after a lively party. The inspiration for this unconventional photography approach stemmed from an unexpected visit by Steven Guigoz of Dank Architectes to the new owners. He discovered the apartment in a state of disarray following a celebration, complete with empty champagne bottles and wrapping paper scattered across the floor. This informal observation led to the realization that portraying the apartment in a lived-in, albeit messy, state could bring a sense of realism and "aliveness" to the architectural photographs, contrasting with the typically pristine and minimalist aesthetic often captured in such shoots. The architects intended to evoke curiosity in viewers, prompting questions about the events that transpired, much like someone trying to recall the details of a night out. The renovation, named Project Amou, involved significant structural changes. The existing partitions on the ground floor were removed to create a large, open-plan living area. One of the bedrooms was relocated to the first floor to optimize the layout. A key design element on the ground floor is a prominent grey-painted volume strategically placed in the center. This structure serves multiple functions: it delineates the entrance area from a television room, houses a laundry room and closet internally, and integrates bookshelves and a study area into its external walls. This multi-functional element effectively organizes and defines the various zones within the open-plan space. The double-height living and dining room is positioned adjacent to a series of glass doors, which facilitate a seamless connection between the interior and the garden, allowing natural light to flood the space. The original staircase was replaced with a new metal structure, whose design intentionally echoes the family dining table, aiming to integrate the furniture as an integral part of the apartment's structure rather than a separate entity. This design choice contributes to the cohesive and architectural feel of the ground floor. Material selections for the renovation were chosen to complement the minimalist design and functional requirements. The flooring features polyurethane screed, while the furniture incorporates MDF wood panels and laminated wood. Corian was selected for the kitchen work surfaces, and assembled parquet was used for the upper floor and the living room. These materials contribute to a contemporary and practical living environment. Frenchie Cristogatin was responsible for the photography of the project, capturing both the architectural details and the staged post-party scenes that highlight the apartment's capacity for vibrant life within its minimalist framework. #ApartmentRenovation #OpenPlanLiving #MinimalistDesign #ArchitecturalPhotography #LyonArchitecture #DankArchitectes #InteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #ApartmentRenovation #OpenPlanLiving #MinimalistDesign #ArchitecturalPhotography #LyonArchitecture #DankArchitectes #InteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture

144 months ago

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