Post-war residential buildings harbour not only a specific charm, but also the potential to create interiors characterised by unique design. One such example is a 56-square-metre, two-room flat in a tenement in Gdańsk, located in a quiet neighbourhood near the city centre, which has undergone a thorough metamorphosis.
Thorough reconstruction of a small flat
The interior design, inspired by the character of the building and sentimental details, made it possible to create a space ideal for two people. The combination of family heirlooms and modern design has given the flat an individual style, where history interacts with the comforts of modern living. The two-room flat, despite its relatively small size, was designed to make maximum use of the space. The decision for a general renovation was forced by the technical condition – replacing the floors, reinforcing the joists, as well as modernising the electrical system and heating system were a necessity. As a result, the flat has not only been brought up to modern standards, but also fully safe for use.
56-square-metre interior full of details and contrasting colours
The kitchen was connected to the living room, creating an open space conducive to spending time together. In the bedroom, in turn, there was space for a separate wardrobe, which significantly increased the functionality of the entire layout. The aesthetics of the flat are based on warm shades of walnut wood, which harmonise with the light furniture. This solution not only optically enlarged the interiors, but also made them cosier. This was complemented by blue accents in the accessories and bathroom finishes, which introduced a subtle, elegant contrast.
Flat in a Gdansk tenement – original furniture and memorabilia
Most of the furniture was custom-made by a local carpenter, which gave the interior a unique character. At the same time, the owner, as a lover of good design, relied on furnishings from Polish manufacturers such as Borcas, Fameg, Tamo and Noo.ma. The combination of individual designs with products from renowned brands made it possible to achieve a harmony combining classic and modern. An important aspect of the project was the inclusion in the décor of family heirlooms, which have a special sentimental value for the owner. This approach made the flat in a tenement in Gdańsk not only functional and aesthetically pleasing, but also full of personal emotions and history.
About the author
Monika Wierzba-Krygiel has been active in architecture since 2011, working on a variety of projects both in Poland and abroad. She holds a degree in Architecture and Urban Planning from Gdansk University of Technology and studied at Universidad de Alcalá (UAH) in Madrid. She also completed postgraduate studies at the Gdansk University of Technology, specialising in architecture and pro-environmental construction and architectural and urban revitalisation of urban areas. She holds an architectural licence to design without limitations and is a member of the Pomeranian Chamber of Polish Architects. In his work, he focuses on creating functional designs based on the principles of sustainable development that meet investors’ expectations.
Project: Monika Wierzba-Krygiel(instagram)
Design and implementation date: 2024
Flat area: 56 sq m
Photos: Natalia Kaczmarek/inkadr
Read also: Apartment | Interiors | Gdansk | Furniture | whiteMAD on Instagram