a pastel-colored vestibule forms the core of this apartment in camogli, italy

Amidst the challenging early months of the invasion of Ukraine, an apartment in Kyiv underwent a transformative renovation, showcasing both creativity and resilience. The '2BM Apartment' project, led by architects Volodymyr Petrunok, Roman Savchuk, and Olexandra Alioshkina of TOP LAB Interiors, aimed to create a vibrant and functional living space despite budget constraints. The 560-square-foot apartment was designed for rental purposes, prompting a resourceful approach to materials and a bold experimentation with color. The design philosophy for the 2BM Apartment centered on trust and a willingness to take risks with unconventional aesthetics. The client's initial skepticism about a particular shade of green for the kitchen cabinets ultimately paved the way for an exploration of diverse colors and materials throughout the space. This bold choice became a defining characteristic of the project, establishing a lively and unconventional atmosphere. Primary colors are strategically employed to create visual interest and delineate different zones within the apartment. The kitchen features vibrant green cabinets juxtaposed with white square tiles and blue grout, creating a striking focal point. In the open living area, contrasting bright blue curtains provide balance and depth, complementing the bold kitchen design. The dining area continues this theme with a red pedestal table and matching red artwork on the wall. The bedroom offers a calmer ambiance with warm-toned walls and textiles, yet still incorporates a pop of color through a Yves Klein blue colored shelf. Resourcefulness is evident in a bedside table crafted from leftover tiles. A hidden element of surprise is introduced with a cherry red interior for the closet, revealed when the floor-to-ceiling white curtains are opened. The entrance features a bold blue sliding door made of polycarbonate plastic, echoing the blue tile grout used elsewhere in the apartment. The bathroom maintains the colorful concept with a yellow glass partition for the shower/tub, a red cabinet supporting the sink, and the consistent blue grout application. These deliberate color choices and material selections transform the compact apartment into a dynamic and visually engaging space, demonstrating that design innovation can flourish even under challenging circumstances. #KyivApartment #InteriorDesign #PrimaryColors #SmallSpaceDesign #ColorfulInteriors #ModernDesign #TOPLABInteriors #DesignInnovation

AIM Studio, in collaboration with Bianco67, has designed a compact, multi-level apartment interior in Milan, named Green Nest, featuring a dominant floor-to-ceiling Verde Alpi marble partition. This central element serves as an elegant backdrop and a functional separator for the various living spaces within the apartment. The design addresses the challenge of combining the dwelling's compact size with the desire to create inviting, functional, and representative spaces suitable for all times of the day. The marble wall, described as a "single gesture" and a "majestic wall," runs through the heart of the home, becoming the focal point around which the entire design revolves. It is positioned as a permeable threshold, dividing the lower-level living spaces from a staircase that leads to a habitable roof terrace. The main living room and bedroom, designed as a fluid area, can be separated by full-height ribbed glass doors, offering flexibility in spatial arrangement. A key aspect of the design is the practical integration of storage solutions within the marble partition. AIM Studio transformed the monolithic marble into an "inhabited wall" by perforating, crossing, and interrupting its thickness to accommodate various living functions. This approach ensures that while the marble acts as a precious shell, it is also highly functional, with every compartment and opening designed for utility, addressing the demands of small-footprint living. Behind this imposing marble structure, a central lightwell illuminates the staircase leading to the rooftop terrace, drawing natural light into the space below. Large windows in the main living area further enhance the natural light, creating an interplay of light and shadow on the reflective marble surface, reminiscent of chiaroscuro effects. This thoughtful lighting strategy contributes to the apartment's aesthetic and atmosphere. The kitchen, discreetly positioned in a corner of the living room, is defined by suspended travertine joinery and an embossed mirror feature wall. To ensure a balanced aesthetic, neutral-toned fixtures and restrained furniture pieces were carefully selected. These choices complement the modern design and accentuate the dramatic presence of the green marble without competing with it. AIM Studio's overarching design philosophy for Green Nest was a "search for authenticity," aiming for a minimal yet welcoming and functional design achieved through the use of natural, precious, and timeless materials. The studio expresses hope that this commitment to authenticity will resonate with the inhabitants, fostering family atmospheres and elegant, yet convivial, environments. Founded in 2012 by Claudio Tognacca, AIM Studio specializes in architecture, interior design, and product development, with projects both in Italy and internationally. The photography of Green Nest is by Simone Bossi. #MilanApartment #AIMStudio #VerdeAlpiMarble #InteriorDesign #CompactLiving #MarbleInterior #LuxuryMaterials #SpaceEfficiency #ItalianDesign

This article highlights an apartment designed by UR Bureau, which transforms a minimalist white space into a vibrant home using a kaleidoscopic gradient of colors. Architect Rustem Urazmetov's design philosophy questioned the use of a single color when a full spectrum could be incorporated. The result is a dynamic interior where shades of green, turquoise, blue, and purple are seamlessly integrated throughout each room, creating a cohesive yet visually stimulating environment. The main living space exemplifies this approach, with color transitions flowing from the kitchen into the dining areas and extending into the living room. Custom furniture pieces, such as a built-in purple banquet in a casual dining area and a double-sided sofa that gradually changes from turquoise to bright green, are key elements in establishing these color gradients. The design maintains a minimalist aesthetic by employing white walls and ceilings, along with pale grey floors, which serve as a neutral backdrop allowing the vibrant colors to take prominence without overwhelming the space. Large windows ensure the interior is filled with natural light, enhancing the luminosity and vibrancy of the hues. Beyond the color gradients, subtle graphic patterns on some surfaces introduce an additional layer of texture and visual interest, contributing to the overall sophisticated design. This meticulous attention to detail extends to other areas of the apartment, including the bathrooms and bedrooms, ensuring that the colorful theme is consistently applied throughout the home. Each bedroom features its own unique gradient color scheme, complemented by geometric accents that provide distinct character to individual spaces. For instance, the primary bedroom showcases a transition from blue to turquoise, with soft wall panels serving as a headboard that ingeniously extends to form a sofa. The closet in this room is enveloped in a bold blue, continuing onto the ceiling and floor, and features a distinctive rounded corner, adding a touch of architectural flair. The primary bathroom also embraces bold design with a vibrant purple color scheme, effectively contrasted by white surfaces and black accents. This demonstrates how even utilitarian spaces are integrated into the overall colorful design narrative. The consistent application of color gradients and thoughtful design elements across the entire apartment by UR Bureau results in a cohesive and lively living environment that challenges conventional minimalist aesthetics by embracing a rich spectrum of color. #MinimalistApartment #ColorGradient #InteriorDesign #URBureau #ModernLiving #CustomFurniture #ArchitecturalDesign #VibrantColors

This article highlights the comprehensive renovation and enlargement of a 2,583-square-foot apartment situated on the top two floors of a historic building in Rome. The project, undertaken by local firm Studio Strato, aimed to enhance the apartment's connection to its outdoor surroundings, specifically a lush green park. The redesign emphasizes preserving elements that narrate the building's history, such as exposed beams and pillars, which were intentionally left visible to showcase the restoration process and the building's historical layers. The renovation began with the demolition of existing internal walls to create a more open and integrated living space. This transformation resulted in a single, expansive area that combines the living and dining functions. The interior aesthetic was significantly brightened with fresh white walls and complemented by larch parquet flooring. A notable feature is a sleek black fireplace, contributing to an overall airy and modern environment. Central to the common area is a striking pink staircase, which serves both a functional purpose, connecting the lower level to the master bedroom above, and an aesthetic one, visually delineating the living and dining zones. To improve the apartment's connection to the outdoors and maximize natural light, large, expansive windows were installed. These windows not only flood the interiors with sunlight but also offer panoramic views of the adjacent park. The dining area, located next to the living lounge, provides direct access to a balcony, further blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living. The kitchen also underwent a modern upgrade, now equipped with stainless steel appliances, reflecting a contemporary design approach. Vincenzo Tattolo, co-founder of Studio Strato, articulated the design intent as enriching the house with a strong graphic look. This was achieved through specific material choices, such as using masonite for the walls of the master bedroom and the widest wall in the kitchen, adding a distinctive texture and visual interest. The master bathroom features Fornace Brioni tiles on both the floor and walls, contributing to a cohesive and sophisticated design. Similarly, the daughter's bathroom is adorned with dotted mosaic tiles, also from Fornace Brioni, ensuring design continuity and quality throughout the apartment. The article includes floor plans of both the lower and upper levels, providing a comprehensive overview of the spatial arrangement and how the renovation optimized the flow and functionality of the apartment. The project successfully blends historical preservation with modern design elements, creating a bright, open, and graphically rich living space that is well-connected to its Roman setting. #apartmentRenovation #romanArchitecture #interiorDesign #studioStrato #modernLiving #historicBuilding #openConcept #pinkStaircase #italianDesign

This article details the transformation of a 925-square-foot apartment in Almaty, Kazakhstan, by designer Elina Mussakulova of sdelaemremont.kz. Initially, the apartment presented significant challenges, including an unpleasant odor due to faulty plumbing, and a long, uninteresting layout described as trailer-like. Mussakulova's primary goal was to make the space welcoming and visually appealing for the new owner, Raushan. Upon entering the renovated apartment, guests are now greeted by handcrafted Metlakh floor tiles and a retro GPO Bermuda record player in the foyer, replacing the previous issues. A major design hurdle involved load-bearing transoms in the living room and bedroom that were awkwardly placed. Instead of concealing them, the design team decided to highlight these architectural elements with plaster corbels. Similarly, the long, seismic corridor was transformed into a series of nicely framed passageways, effectively addressing what was once considered a significant aesthetic problem. The kitchen's design originated from a unique wallpaper by Zak + Fox featuring monkeys, chosen because it reminded Mussakulova of the client's active personality and curly red hair. The purple fruit depicted in the wallpaper inspired the color choice for the kitchen cabinets, establishing a personalized and vibrant theme. A notable decision involved connecting the bathroom directly to the kitchen to create a more spacious entry hall. To mitigate the issue of a toilet next to the oven, a small room was ingeniously built within the bathroom to discreetly house the toilet. The apartment also features resourceful storage solutions, such as a yellow freestanding cabinet found at a flea market. Although its wood was in poor condition, painting it gave it a new lease on life, demonstrating a creative approach to repurposing. The homeowner's preference for a soft bench in the kitchen over a narrow island with stools was adopted, contributing to the kitchen's intended function as a relaxed social gathering area rather than solely a cooking space. This client's infrequent cooking habits allowed for the use of a tiled countertop, an unconventional material choice that perfectly suited her lifestyle. A rolling library ladder was a non-negotiable element for the designer, incorporated to visually heighten the ceiling and add a whimsical touch. The project also involved collaborating with a plaster specialist for the first time, who created custom plaster corbels under the transoms, adding intricate detail. The article highlights the use of stained-glass doors, a new and highly successful feature for the design team, which they plan to incorporate into future projects. These doors, despite limited color options, were combined to create a cohesive and striking visual element. The design philosophy also emphasized unconventional art placement, such as positioning pictures in unexpected corners, to create more engaging and dynamic visual effects. Key products and suppliers mentioned include Anthropologie for handles, Original BTC for lighting, Tikkurila for wall paint, Finarte for rugs, Zak + Fox for wallpaper, and Zara Home for furniture, illustrating a mix of high-end and accessible design elements used in the project. #ApartmentDesign #InteriorRenovation #KazakhstanHome #ColorfulInteriors #StainedGlass #CreativeSolutions #HomeTours #SmallSpaceDesign

The Vaulted Monochrome Haus, a 4,300-square-foot residence located in a Mumbai suburb, is a design by DIG Architects for a family of four. The project blends a monochromatic color scheme with minimalist aesthetics and refined comfort. This collaboration builds upon a pre-existing professional relationship, allowing the architects to explore innovative design concepts, with the vaulted ceiling emerging as a primary architectural and aesthetic element. The apartment's design integrates various materials such as gabion walls, frosted glass bricks, and Ceppo De Gre stone to create a unified yet distinctive environment. While the overall layout of the apartment largely maintains its original structure, strategic modifications were implemented to enhance spatial efficiency and functionality. For instance, a guest bedroom was converted into a study, facilitating the expansion of the primary suite to include a more spacious walk-in closet. The living area is conceived as a central communal space, connecting seamlessly to complementary areas such as a bespoke bar and an open-plan kitchen, thereby promoting social interaction and a sense of openness. Upon entry, the apartment features a frosted glass brick partition that gently diffuses light, separating the entrance from the bar area. The living room, a large rectangular space, is characterized by a subdivided vaulted ceiling that adds visual interest and dimension. This area serves as the home's core, designed to comfortably host gatherings, dining, and even film screenings. Adjacent to the living room, the dining area is intentionally positioned to encourage interaction, with clear sightlines throughout the space. A notable feature in the dining area is the Moon lighting pendant by Davide Groppi, which functions as a focal point and enhances the room’s ambiance. The Vaulted Monochrome Haus adheres to a grayscale palette, punctuated by the inclusion of Ceppo De Gre marble, a material not commonly found in Indian interiors. This monochrome scheme is enlivened by strategically placed greenery, which introduces freshness and warmth into the space. The design meticulously incorporates elements like sandwiched metal mesh in cabinetry and oak veneer in the study, reflecting a minimalist approach that prioritizes utility while maintaining a sophisticated aesthetic. The private quarters of the residence extend the overarching design theme while accommodating individual preferences. The primary bedroom features a four-poster bed set against a backlit installation of frosted glass bricks, conveying a sense of sophistication. Sliding partitions in this room offer flexible spatial arrangements, combining practicality with innovative design. In contrast, the daughter’s room diverges from the dominant gray theme, adopting a predominantly white palette to create a bright and soft atmosphere. Implementing complex design elements, such as the vaulted ceilings, presented specific challenges that required custom templates for precise execution and integrated lighting solutions to preserve the design's integrity. Similarly, the development of sliding wall systems to resolve spatial conflicts in the primary bedroom demonstrates the architects’ ability to overcome technical obstacles with creative solutions. #MonochromaticDesign #VaultedCeilings #MumbaiArchitecture #MinimalistInterior #ContemporaryLiving #DIGArchitects #LuxuryApartment #InteriorDesignIndia #HomeRenovation

In Milan's Città Studi neighborhood, a 1,023-square-foot apartment, housed in an early 1900s building, underwent a significant transformation by the design studio Kick.Office. The apartment’s young owners, new to the city, sought to revitalize their new home while preserving its original features, including parquet floors and vintage cement tiles. The primary design challenge was the unusually long and narrow hallway, which the clients were unsure how to approach. However, Kick.Office embraced this feature, deciding to emphasize its proportions and length, turning it into a central element, or 'promenade,' of the apartment’s design. The design team reimagined the hallway as a dramatic and functional space. They achieved this by introducing a barrel vault ceiling and applying a color palette that combines milk white with an intense terracotta red. Custom cabinetry and hidden doors, painted in a matte lacquered rust color, were integrated into the hallway, providing both storage and a seamless aesthetic. The flooring in the hallway was updated with marble-chip tiles from MIPA's Seeds collection, chosen for their contemporary colors while referencing historical Milanese apartment elements. Lighting played a crucial role in enhancing the hallway’s depth, with a series of wall sconces strategically placed to amplify this effect. Additionally, the hallway now incorporates niches, built-in cabinets, and a dedicated home office, catering to the increasing demand for integrated workspaces within residential settings. The apartment's overall layout was entirely reconfigured to optimize space and functionality. The sleeping area was relocated to the quieter rear of the house, overlooking a courtyard, while the living area was positioned to face the street. The living room features restored Italian oak herringbone parquet flooring and is furnished with a mix of classic and modern pieces, including a Wassily chair by Marcel Breuer and a vintage 1960s Italian teak shelving unit. The adjoining dining area and open kitchen showcase a dark green Veneta Cucine model with an ivory-colored quartz countertop. Hidden doors in the kitchen conceal the laundry area, refrigerator, pantry, and oven, maintaining a sleek and uncluttered appearance. The dining space is appointed with an LC6 glass table by Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret, and Charlotte Perriand for Cassina, paired with Cesca chairs by Breuer, and illuminated by a cherry-red Diabolo hanging lamp by Achille Castiglioni for Flos. The bathrooms also underwent a radical transformation. A large shower was created from a former kitchenette space, accessible through an oval door. A mirrored door in the closet area leads to the en-suite bathroom, which includes a toilet and sink. Privacy and light flow between these areas are managed by a glass-block wall. The guest bathroom features forest-colored enamel painted walls, a ceramic countertop bowl sink with a green Guatemalan marble top, and a custom matte lacquered terracotta-colored storage shelf. Wall tiles by Marazzi from the Crogiolo Lume series adorn the shower area, and a circular glass-block wall serves as a tribute to Pierre Chareau’s Maison de Verre. Throughout the apartment, the design integrates custom-made furniture with both modern and classic pieces, creating a functional architectural envelope that harmoniously blends vintage details with contemporary influences and restored elements with new additions, resulting in a comfortable and aesthetically balanced home. #MilanApartment #HomeDesign #HallwayDesign #InteriorRenovation #KickOffice #CustomCabinetry #VintageFurniture #ContemporaryLighting #SpaceOptimization

Decorating an apartment living room can be challenging due to limited space, awkward layouts, or budget constraints, especially when rooms need to serve multiple functions. This article provides 15 creative and practical apartment living room ideas suitable for both owners and renters, focusing on functionality and style. The suggestions aim to transform these often hard-working spaces into inspiring and comfortable areas. One key strategy is to zone the living room using paint and pattern. When room dividers are not feasible, varying paint colors, patterns, and prints on walls can visually segregate different areas within a small space. For example, specific colors can define a living area from a dining or office nook. Additionally, incorporating rugs with distinct patterns or shapes can further delineate zones, creating a sense of separation without physical barriers. Different lighting intensities can also be used to distinguish areas, with brighter lights for functional spaces and softer, ambient lighting for relaxation. Multi-purpose furniture is essential for maximizing space in apartment living rooms. Investing in items like sofa beds provides seating for daily use and transforms into a comfortable sleeping area for guests. Built-in storage, while ideal, can be expensive or unavailable in rented properties. Alternatives include purchasing versatile furniture pieces that offer both seating and storage solutions. Floating furniture away from walls can paradoxically make a room feel larger by revealing more floor space. Embracing the multi-purpose nature of apartment living rooms, rather than viewing it as a limitation, is another effective approach. This means intentionally carving out distinct areas for different activities, such as a dining area that doubles as a workspace. Using curtains or strategically placed furniture as soft room dividers can enhance the feeling of separate zones within an open-plan layout. For example, a large sectional sofa can act as a natural boundary between the living area and other parts of an open-plan space. Vertical storage solutions, such as open shelving systems, are highly recommended when floor space is limited. These systems utilize wall space efficiently, providing storage without cluttering the floor. Opting for slimline shelves in colors that match the walls can make them blend in, maximizing storage while maintaining an uncluttered aesthetic. An all-white color scheme, often inherited in rental units, can be embraced to create a serene and versatile backdrop, allowing for easy decor changes and maximizing natural light. Personalizing the space through mixed styles and textures can create an eclectic and unique ambiance. This involves incorporating furniture and decor that resonate with personal taste, even if they don't conform to a single style. Conversely, a simple and linear approach with contemporary furniture featuring clean lines can achieve a structured yet comfortable feel. Anchoring a living room in an open-plan apartment with a statement rug helps to define the area and arrange furniture around it, creating a distinct zone. Strategically placed large mirrors can significantly enhance the perception of space and light in small apartments. Mirrors, especially those leaning against a wall or placed just off the floor, reflect light and expand the visual area. Adding numerous houseplants introduces life and color, utilizing vertical space through shelving units. Piling up textiles and textures on sofas and surfaces, combined with a neutral backdrop and a simple color palette, can transform a small room into a cozy, rustic, and bohemian dream space. Finally, using book collections to add pops of color on simple shelves is a budget-friendly and decorative way to personalize a rented apartment, creating an instant library and visual interest without permanent alterations. #ApartmentLivingRoom #InteriorDesign #SmallSpaceLiving #HomeDecor #MultiPurposeFurniture #ZoningWithColor #VerticalStorage #EclecticDecor #BudgetDecorating

This article details the renovation of an apartment located on the third floor of an ancient building near the Palau de la Música in Barcelona, Spain. The project, undertaken by Colombo and Serboli Architecture, was designed for a young Italian fashion designer seeking a serene and warm living space in the Catalan capital. The architects were immediately captivated by the apartment's open proportions and five-meter-high ceilings, and sought to preserve and enhance existing charming elements such as massive wooden beams, wooden floors, a mezzanine overlooking the living area, and two-floor metal windows. A key challenge involved rationalizing a compact bathroom and replacing structurally compromised stairs leading to the second level. The design philosophy embraced a 'wabi-sabi' approach, integrating original features and imperfections while maintaining the apartment's inherent charm. Shapes employed are simple and bold, featuring recurring basic forms like squares, circles, and spheres, with sturdy solid surfaces to complement the monumental existing elements. The architects drew inspiration from the architectural styles of Luis Barragán and Carlo Scarpa, with Scarpa's influence particularly evident in the sculptural stairs and a central furniture piece that defines the entire project. The core concept revolves around a multifunction block, a layered central element around which the space and activities are organized, maintaining an open, loft-like layout. The dining area extends from the central stair element. On the kitchen side, the block incorporates niches, openings, and shelves for tableware and pantry storage. A substantial, arch-shaped travertine marble slab protrudes from the block, forming a one-legged dining table and an integrated bench. A small square niche cleverly conceals a spotlight, functioning as a disguised sconce. The stairs themselves are conceptualized as layers of materials, transitioning from a solid plinth to wooden block steps, then to a suspended micro-cement landing with a half-circle cutout designed to accommodate a tall plant. The final steps, made of light-colored wood, appear to float and double as a light source above the dining table through integrated LED strips. On the second level, the bedroom area remains open to the living space. A wicker panel serves dual functions as both a headboard and a balustrade. A suspended ledge, inspired by Paul Rudolph's Halston House, runs along the double-height space, forming bedside tables and a display shelf for the living area. The closet in the bedroom is designed as a warm monolith, clad in woven wicker screens. One screen cleverly conceals the entrance to a small bathroom, another hides a hand washbasin within a mirrored box, and a third integrates the stair's handrail through a diagonal cut. The bathroom is finished with vertical ceramic tiles featuring an elegant nacre finish, introducing a new texture to the apartment's overall palette of neutral shades. The architects utilized a neutral color palette but played with a variety of finishes, ranging from glossy to rough, selecting materials based on their tactile and textural qualities. These include white microcement for the stairs and seat block, light natural wood, and woven wicker panels. Enameled painted walls reflect light, contrasting with matte microcement, a rough travertine slab, and porcelain kitchen tops. A textured bouclé fabric was chosen for seat cushions, and brushed steel details, such as in the bespoke cooker hood, complete the material palette. #BarcelonaApartment #WabiSabiDesign #StaircaseDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #InteriorDesign #ColomboSerboliArchitecture #ModernLiving #MaterialPalette #FashionDesignerHome

This blog post highlights a particular vestibule in Columbia Heights, Washington D.C., that the author considers to be the "coolest" they have ever seen in the city. The vestibule features multiple portraits, leading the author to speculate whether these are of the original owners of the house. The article includes several images showcasing different angles and details of this unique architectural feature. The author expresses a desire for readers to share similar interesting or distinctive elements from their own homes, indicating an ongoing interest in unique home features within the D.C. area. The content is presented as a personal observation and an invitation for community engagement, typical of a blog format rather than a formal news report. The featured vestibule is characterized by its display of numerous portraits, which are a central point of interest for the author. This visual detail sparks a question about the history and occupants of the house, suggesting a sense of curiosity about local history and personal stories embedded in residential architecture. The article implicitly encourages readers to look beyond the surface of their homes and appreciate the unique characteristics that can make a space special. The request for readers to submit photos of their own "sweet vestibules or other cool features" suggests a community-oriented approach, aiming to foster a shared appreciation for home aesthetics and possibly uncover more hidden gems in the D.C. area. This interactive element is a hallmark of blog content, seeking direct involvement and contributions from its audience. The article's focus on a single, distinctive home feature, combined with the author's personal reaction and call for reader submissions, positions it firmly within the blog category. It does not report on a breaking event or public issue but rather shares a specific observation and invites discussion around a niche topic—unique home design elements in Washington D.C. The language is informal and conversational, further supporting its classification as a blog post. The images provided serve to visually document the vestibule in question, allowing readers to see what captivated the author's attention and understand the basis for the author's enthusiastic description. The overall tone is light and engaging, designed to entertain and connect with a local audience interested in home and local culture. #ColumbiaHeights #VestibuleDesign #HomeFeatures #DCHomes #ArchitecturalDetails #LocalInterest #HomeDecor #UniqueHomes

Paris-based designer Thibaut Picard, known for his work on luxury hotels like Kasiiya Costa Rica and Hyatt Regency Morocco, took on a rare residential project for a local couple. The clients, a marketing manager and a travel brand director who frequently travel, desired their one-bedroom apartment to evoke the comfort and exclusivity of a five-star hotel suite. Picard aimed to fulfill this by incorporating design elements inspired by their travel experiences. The apartment, approximately 700 square feet, features a dramatic entrance painted in a rich blue-green hue. Picard selected this color for its theatrical quality, intending to create a distinct universe within the space. Initially, the homeowners were hesitant about such a dark color, fearing it would diminish natural light. However, strategically placed cutouts in the transitional area, which also serve as practical spots for keys, convinced them that the apartment would not lack sunlight. The substantial 12-foot ceilings of the Parisian apartment also allowed the dark color to extend throughout the hallway without making it feel overly confined. Seamlessly integrated closets, painted the same shade, blend into the wall, adding to the cohesive design. The bold color scheme extends into the private areas of the apartment. The primary bedroom is adorned in a soft peachy pink, specifically "Pink Coral by Ressource." Picard explains that this shade was chosen to create a sense of comfort and luxury, transforming the bedroom into a boudoir-like retreat. The color subtly shifts throughout the day, appearing pastel in the morning and mauve in the evening, adding dynamic character to the room. The green marbled bathroom continues the rich and sophisticated palette. A key feature of the bedroom is the hidden walk-in closet and dressing area, ingeniously concealed behind what appears to be standard picture-frame molding along one wall. This clever design element fulfills the husband's long-held wish for a secret room, a concept Picard kept in mind throughout the design process. The apartment also incorporates practical and discreet storage solutions. The dining area, which doubles as a workspace for the owners, features built-in shelves behind the marble dining table, perfect for storing art books. Additional hidden storage for tablecloths and serveware is integrated beneath the bench seat and on either side of the shelves. To preserve the apartment's original crown molding, these cabinets are designed to stop just below the full ceiling height. In contrast to the vibrant hues in other parts of the apartment, the open-concept living space adopts a quieter aesthetic with a cool white paint. This choice was made to complement the sage green dining room shelving and to provide a more serene environment where the owners can focus on their work. In the evenings, the living area transforms into a cozy retreat with a mix of sleek mid-century furniture, many pieces upholstered in velvet, offering a comfortable space for relaxation and entertaining. The homeowners recall sharing wine with neighbors during the 18-month renovation, a distant memory now that the project is complete and they can fully enjoy their transformed home. #ParisApartment #ThibautPicard #InteriorDesign #HiddenStorage #ColorPalette #LuxuryLiving #HomeTours #Renovation #MidCenturyModern

Iñigo Berasategui and Ane Arce, partners from the Bilbao-based architecture firm AZAB, embarked on a gut renovation of their new condo, which featured a semicircular floor plan. The building, designed by Spanish architect Hilario Imaz, is a typical 1960s bourgeois housing unit, originally configured with a conventional series of rooms connected by a corridor. Despite its dated appearance, the couple recognized the apartment's potential, particularly its light-filled corner location and unique curved layout, which also posed a design challenge. The architects worked with a budget of 45,000 euros, including furniture and kitchen appliances, to transform the 969-square-foot flat. Their objective was to create a flexible, open space that embraced the building's curves. To achieve this, all interior walls were removed, resulting in one expansive open area. This decision was driven by an exploration of new ways to experience domestic space and was heavily inspired by Marcel Duchamp's Readymades, a concept that lent its name to the project: the Ready-Made Home. A key aspect of the renovation involved the reuse of existing materials and the incorporation of DIY techniques. For instance, Nero Marquina marble, originally used as kitchen flooring, was repurposed for the kitchen's edge and as a backsplash in the main bathroom. A former white marble kitchen countertop was upcycled into a table positioned behind the sofa, further illustrating the project's Duchampian and DIY ethos. Color played a crucial role in the redesign. Long, light-blue curtains, a bold pale-pink range hood, and a bright-yellow steel frame supporting the shelving system were strategically introduced. Berasategui explained that the fresh color palette was intended to highlight objects and soften the overall aesthetic, with a creamy tone for the background and a gradient of colors from pink to blue to draw attention to furniture and elements over the architecture. Even the front entrance features intentional patches of olive green paint, creating an unfinished look that raises questions about the definition of a completed home and suggests ongoing evolution. Additional design elements include birch plywood boards used for both kitchen cabinetry and living room flooring, reinforcing the DIY aesthetic. The expansive shelving system, suspended from a bright-yellow steel frame, reflects the couple's love for books. Berasategui also mentioned inspirations from “the atmosphere of the Factory and the first houses of Frank Gehry,” emphasizing a lighthearted, playful liberation that defines the home's spirit. The project successfully transformed a conventional 1960s apartment into a modern, flexible, and art-inspired living space. #ApartmentRenovation #OpenFloorPlan #BilbaoArchitecture #AZABArchitects #DuchampInspired #DIYDesign #RepurposedMaterials #ColorPalette #ModernLiving

The Kirribilli residence, designed by Luigi Rosselli Architects, showcases a harmonious blend of sustainable design principles and textural aesthetics. Located in Kirribilli, VIC, this completed residential project integrates several innovative features aimed at reducing its ecological footprint and enhancing natural climate control. The design emphasizes natural ventilation, thermal mass, and a thoughtful connection to its environment, resulting in a home that is both visually striking and environmentally conscious. A key feature of the residence is its self-cooling stairwell. This architectural element is designed to funnel sea breezes and draw cooler basement air from the lower levels upwards through the house, creating a natural 'chimney effect.' This passive cooling strategy significantly reduces the reliance on artificial air conditioning, contributing to lower energy consumption and a more comfortable indoor climate. The strategic placement and design of the stairwell highlight a deep understanding of natural airflow and its application in residential architecture. Another prominent and sustainable aspect of the Kirribilli residence is the use of rammed earth walls. These walls are constructed from locally-sourced materials, specifically clay, sand, and gravel. The choice of rammed earth not only provides a unique textural aesthetic but also offers excellent thermal mass properties. Thermal mass helps regulate indoor temperatures by absorbing heat during the day and releasing it slowly at night, thereby minimizing temperature fluctuations and reducing heating and cooling demands. The local sourcing of materials further lessens the project's carbon footprint by reducing transportation emissions. The residence incorporates additional passive design elements to optimize natural light and ventilation. Glass skylights and louvers are strategically placed throughout the structure. These elements are not merely aesthetic; they are functional components designed to capture and control sunlight, allowing for ample natural illumination while mitigating excessive heat gain. The louvers provide adjustable shading and ventilation, enabling occupants to manage airflow and light according to external conditions and personal comfort. Beyond the structural elements, the landscape design by Terragram plays a crucial role in rounding out the reduced ecological footprint of the Kirribilli House. Thoughtful landscaping contributes to the overall environmental performance of the property by enhancing biodiversity, providing natural shading, and potentially assisting with water management. The integration of landscape design with architectural design ensures a holistic approach to sustainability, where the building and its surroundings work together to create an energy-efficient and environmentally responsible living space. Luigi Rosselli Architects' design for the Kirribilli residence exemplifies a commitment to sustainable residential architecture. By combining a self-cooling stairwell, rammed earth walls made from local materials, strategically placed skylights and louvers, and integrated landscape design, the project achieves a high level of environmental performance and a distinct, textural aesthetic. The residence stands as a model for how contemporary homes can be designed to be both luxurious and environmentally friendly, prioritizing natural systems for climate control and material sourcing. #SustainableArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #PassiveCooling #RammedEarth #NaturalVentilation #ThermalMass #EcoFriendlyMaterials #LandscapeDesign #LuigiRosselliArchitects

Sydney interior designer Marco Meneguzzi has transformed a compact one-bedroom apartment into a serene inner-city retreat, meticulously curating antique furniture and classic design elements. After downsizing from a two-bedroom apartment, Meneguzzi embraced the opportunity to edit his possessions, retaining cherished antiques and ensuring others found good homes. His new residence, acquired in 2021, appealed to him due to its 3.5m-high ceilings, herringbone parquetry, broad balcony, individual entry, and tranquil location, surprisingly close to the CBD yet offering remarkable quietude. The apartment's original decor was dated and the layout inefficient, with a hallway consuming valuable living space. However, existing features like an elegant Louis-style fireplace and the herringbone floors provided a strong foundation for his vision. Meneguzzi aimed to create a luxurious hotel suite ambiance, drawing inspiration from boutique establishments like JK Place in Florence. This involved a design philosophy that combined ornate, hand-crafted architectural detailing with a simple, neutral color palette and minimal patterns. His renovation, spanning six months, focused on opening up the space. He removed the wall between the living room and the entry, creating a more generous, contiguous area that seamlessly connects to the kitchen. To enhance the flow and light, two sets of French doors were installed on either side of the living room fireplace, leading into the bedroom, thus establishing clear sightlines and visually expanding both rooms. Further French doors replaced existing ones leading to the balcony, adding a touch of classical elegance. The herringbone parquetry was extended into the kitchen, ensuring continuity in flooring. The kitchen itself was re-designed with generous shelving, including glass-fronted cabinets for displaying vintage dinnerware and special finds. Shaker-style joinery was incorporated, and cornicing was added throughout the apartment to maintain a classic aesthetic. The benchtop and splashback are crafted from Snow White marble, complementing the Dulux Palo Verde two-pac finish on the joinery. In the bedroom, built-in wardrobes were relocated to what was formerly part of the hallway, a strategic move to prevent a claustrophobic feel. While considering bronze-hued walls, Meneguzzi ultimately chose white walls for their calming effect and timeless appeal. The original herringbone floors were stripped and refinished to a muted 'nutty colour,' moving away from a reddish gloss. Grasscloth wallpaper and a four-poster bed were introduced to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Most of the furnishings were existing pieces, sourced from antique dealers in Melbourne and the NSW Southern Highlands, such as Edward Clarke Antiques and Lydie Du Bray Antiques. Meneguzzi's preference for plain, textured fabrics, particularly linen, is evident in the re-upholstery of chairs, opting for simplicity over potentially tiring patterns, which he reserves for rugs and paintings. He plans to introduce subtle pops of color through new artworks featuring orange, white, green, and clay tones. A cherished Spanish oak antique table, an exquisitely carved piece, holds a prominent spot at the top of the stairs, symbolizing his belief that meaningful possessions elevate any space. The completed apartment reflects a classic and timeless design that Meneguzzi believes will endure for decades, embodying his philosophy of curated elegance and functional beauty. The project successfully blends antique charm with modern comfort, creating a sophisticated and tranquil living environment. #ApartmentInteriorDesign #ClassicalInteriors #AntiqueFurniture #HomeRenovation #NeutralPalette #FrenchDoors #HerringboneFloors #ShakerKitchen #BedroomDesign #SydneyDesign

Minimalist apartment design, often perceived as stark or empty, can actually create calm, inviting, and serene interiors with strong visuals and interesting details without being overpowering. This approach is particularly effective in small spaces like apartments, where clutter can be more acutely felt. The philosophy behind this form of minimalism is not merely about owning less but about applying a decorating style that promotes a sense of comfort and well-being. Integrating texture into walls, for instance, can prevent starkness. Designers are moving away from blank white walls, opting for finishes like clay paint that offer a multi-dimensional look, adding depth and a sense of breathing to the space. Clay paint also makes smaller areas feel larger, introduces soulfulness to bigger rooms, and helps soften acoustics, contributing to a warmer ambiance even in minimalist settings. Another impactful approach draws from the ancient Japanese aesthetic of Wabi Sabi, which embraces imperfection and naturalness. This style can be incorporated into minimalist apartment designs by using antique and custom-made fixtures, textured walls, and casually draped linen blinds. This method demonstrates that minimalism doesn't require sleek, polished, or strictly contemporary elements, but can instead be grounded in humility and organic beauty. Choosing 'humble' furniture aligns with a growing trend in minimalism that prioritizes unpretentious and grounded pieces over flashy designs. This can be seen in studio apartments where custom-made seating with simple cushions and rough clay-plastered walls ground utilitarian elements like stainless steel kitchens, creating a design that feels authentic and true to the space's character. For apartments with open-concept layouts or visible connecting rooms, soft color transitions can unify and delineate spaces simultaneously. Instead of uniform colors, subtle shifts in a calm palette—such as off-white to pinkish terracotta to beige and dark tones—can add interest while maintaining a sense of flow and understated luxury. This strategy helps define distinct ambiances within an interconnected environment without disrupting the minimalist aesthetic. Embracing an apartment's original features, such as industrial elements in a loft-style space, allows for a unique minimalist design that emphasizes the building's narrative. By focusing on structural aspects and a muted color palette, these features can become integral parts of the design, transforming exterior views into artwork and creating comfort through minimalism. This approach proves that minimalist apartments don't need to be featureless boxes. Simplifying apartment hallways, which often feature numerous internal doors in a small area, is crucial for creating a positive first impression. Creative solutions like hidden doors or the strategic placement of built-in cabinetry can eliminate the 'corridor' effect, making entryways feel more expansive and less cluttered. This allows private rooms to recede, creating a seamless and minimalist experience for residents and guests alike. Utilizing pocket doors offers a flexible solution for maintaining an open concept while providing the option for privacy or concealing clutter. When open, pocket doors disappear into walls, creating an unobstructed entryway that appears minimalist due to the absence of architraves or trims. This design allows for the extension of spaces like kitchens into living areas while offering the practical benefit of closing them off to contain noises and smells. Maximizing built-in storage is essential for maintaining a clean-lined, clutter-free environment in a minimalist apartment. By integrating appliances and storage within architectural elements, such as a central joinery block that also frames an arched doorway, visual clutter is reduced. This thoughtful use of space ensures every inch is functional while contributing to a calm and minimalist aesthetic. Finally, while some may find it controversial, minimalism can effectively coexist with color. The key lies in how color is incorporated—through color-blocked areas, or cabinets and countertops made from uniform materials and colors. This allows for a pared-back feel even with vibrant hues, proving that thoughtful application of color can enhance a minimalist design without compromising its serene quality. Ultimately, successful minimalist apartment design hinges on mindfulness about possessions and intentional decorating choices. #MinimalistApartment #SmallSpaceLiving #InteriorDesign #HomeDecoration #WabiSabi #BuiltInStorage #ColorPalette #ApartmentLiving #DesignPhilosophy