A straightforward apartment
with an intricate interior design
LOCATION
Moscow
area
38 m²
GALLERY
The architectural framework of this interior resembles a grid of a tic-tac-toe children's game. It is deliberately simple, with straight lines, precise intersections, and clean volumes and planes. The challenge was to "strip down" the small space in a way that it would "resonate". The clients had specific preferences: the interior should be simple, comfortable, and practical, while also having a distinct image and style. It should serve not only utilitarian purposes but also aesthetic functions.
To fill in the spaces, we strategically placed X's and O's to form a harmonious alignment on the grid of the interior's architectural framework. This integration of functional and decorative elements creates a unified whole within the space.
The main function of this apartment is to serve as a "work-guest" space located close to the client's office. It provides a convenient place to stay overnight after a long workday or relax and meet friends without disturbing the children. I decided to keep the interior architecture as simple as possible. While it's possible to create complex and intriguing lifestyle scenarios within the interior for a specific client, it wasn't necessary in this case. For rental properties, it is convenient to have separate and easily understandable rooms with straightforward volumes.
The clients required a highly functional and uncluttered interior that pleases the eye in every aspect.
GALLERY
During the project development process, numerous layout options were explored, but none of them were ideal for the space. However, when the right solution was found, the interior design seamlessly aligned with it. The solution dictated the volumes, shapes, and even the color scheme of the interior, all while maintaining the coherence of lines and forms. The interior exists independently of a specific owner's image, yet it simultaneously sets the direction for the lifestyle within it. My interpretation of the concept of Hygge entails a cozy tranquility, a secure and comfortable environment free from irritants.
The kitchen and living room were merged by relocating the doorway from the entrance towards the window. This arrangement created a separate and private sleeping area. To create a sense of spaciousness and openness, the kitchen was visually connected to the hallway by removing the beam above the doorway leading into the kitchen. Now, the spaces seamlessly flow into one another.
GALLERY
In the room, it was necessary to accommodate both a living area and a bedroom. This was achieved by utilizing a low partition, which allows light to flow into the sleeping area and serves as a focal point within the interior composition.
GALLERY
Integrated storage systems are important elements of this interior. They serve both a spatial-forming function and a utilitarian purpose. They seamlessly blend into the architectural and color framework, adding volume and visual interest without overpowering the overall design.
The wardrobe in the bedroom area takes the form of an alcove and is connected to the bedside tables. It has a solid presence, yet it maintains an airy feel through the combination of finishes and its construction. The hallway wardrobe serves as a dominant feature in terms of color and volume within the interior.
All finishes, furniture pieces, and lighting were carefully selected to harmonize with each other, with combinations being meticulously planned in advance. There are no random objects or improvisations here. Every shade was scrutinized to ensure it lacked any unwanted yellowness or greenness, aiming to create a visually cohesive space. We carefully balanced and considered every element in this interior, finding the right proportions and combinations.
The project was published on the website of ELLE Decoration.
Photographer: Olga Melekestseva. Year of realization: 2017.