The flat in the tenement by Karolina Rzeszut of NoNo Studio is the result of her conscious work with the late 19th century monument, carried out under the supervision of the conservator and in close cooperation with the investor. The whole process started even before the purchase of the premises and from the beginning assumed to make the most of the potential of the historic interior.
Living in a tenement – choosing a location
The tenement house from 1890 is located in an intensively renovated part of Gdańsk, not far from the city centre. The investor entrusted the project to the same studio for the second time, and this time the scope of work included a thorough renovation of the premises previously used as a council flat. The architect was involved in the selection of the property, analysing several offers and consistently focusing on buildings with history. During the first inspection, it was already clear that the selected property had exceptional potential.
Strengths of old architecture
The value of the flat was determined by the many original elements that have been preserved in the building. The staircase with its mosaics and decorative stuccowork is very impressive. In the interior of the apartment, attention is drawn to the high windows, the glazed bay window and the trace of the former double doors, which hinted at the original amphitheatre layout. The way light is arranged in the rooms and the view of the neighbouring buildings were also of great importance. It was the panorama beyond the windows that became the starting point for further design decisions.
Renovating a flat in a townhouse
From the outset, it was agreed that the design should relate to the historic surroundings of the street and the architecture of the townhouse. The motifs visible on the facades of the neighbouring buildings found their echo in the interior, creating a continuation of the urban landscape. The solutions used do not reproduce the old forms directly, but interpret them in a balanced way. Reproduced window and door joinery, decorative wall mouldings, herringbone oak flooring, fine tile formats and opal glass in the lighting create an atmosphere rooted in history without being overly literal. The repetition of geometric motifs alludes to classical proportions known since antiquity.
Tenement flat and new functional layout
An important consideration was the reorganisation of the flat plan. The reintroduction of the amphilade improved airflow, interior lighting and the comfort of daily use. At the same time, a decision was made to enlarge the bathroom. It was moved into the former kitchen, thus gaining access to daylight. A wardrobe was planned in place of the previous narrow sanitary space. The kitchenette is located in the dining area with a bay window, which naturally promotes communal functions.
Colours and materials
The stylistic concept, inspired by art déco and modernism aesthetics, matured as the project developed. Design freedom resulted in bold combinations of colours and forms. A palette based on maroon, terracotta and ochre was broken up by accents of cobalt and blue. This choice of colours was of practical importance, as the north-facing flat needed to be visually warmed up. The natural light enhances the intensity of the colours, and the linen curtains with ombre effect subtly filter them. In addition, high-quality materials were used here, including wood, stone, brass, steel and fine fabrics and ornamental glass. The design also includes realisations by Polish design brands.
Art and other details
Works of art and objects of individual expression became an integral part of the arrangement. A painting by Piotr Kachny hangs in the dining room and a work by Jonasz Koperkiewicz in intense cobalt tones in the living room. In addition to contemporary furniture, objects found at antique fairs and glass from Polish glassworks have appeared. Attention is also drawn to utilitarian details such as organic furniture handles and an irregularly shaped carpet.
Author’s ceramics by Karolina Rzeszut
An original collection of ceramics designed by Karolina Rzeszut was also created for the project. Of particular note is the cylindrical Ubique vase in a shade inspired by Delphic ceramics coloured with cobalt oxide. The successful prototype initiated the development of the entire series, which also found its way into the studio’s subsequent projects.
Flat in a tenement in Gdansk
Working on this interior proved to be a demanding yet inspiring experience. The trust from the investor allowed for a consistent spatial narrative and the creation of a flat that tells a story rooted in place, architecture and individual choices for a new aesthetic.
Interior design: Karolina Rzeszut, NoNo Studio
Location: Gdańsk
Area: 85 sqm.
Photography: Martyna Soul Studio
