The refurbishment of this flat in Katowice, carried out to a design by the Kubieniec Długosz studio, is an example of how thoughtful design decisions can completely transform a space, giving it new functionality, light and a distinctive character. The spacious flat, in which the owners had lived for years, had ceased to meet their day-to-day needs. The existing layout failed to make the most of the space’s potential, and the individual rooms did not form a coherent whole. These problems are now a thing of the past.
Architects Joanna Kubieniec and Katarzyna Długosz began their work by analysing various functional options, aiming to create an open-plan living area with a kitchen and an island, and to organise the flow between the private and communal areas. The result of the redesign is a space where light flows freely through the flat, and the individual zones are clearly defined. The open-plan living area has become a natural gathering place, whilst comfort in the private areas has been preserved. A key element of this transformation is the walk-in wardrobe with mirrored fronts, which reflects light and colours, making the space appear larger and emphasising the distinctive shade of pink present in the interior.
Pink as the central theme
The colour pink has become the foundation of the entire design. It appears in various shades and textures, creating a cohesive, recognisable composition. The most striking element is the pink kitchen island, around which domestic life centres. It is accompanied by patterned Flaviker tiles, which feature in the kitchen, living room, toilet and bathroom. Their graphic character balances the softness of the colours and rounded forms, introducing a harmonious counterpoint.
Soft lines and fluid transitions
Curved lines are one of the key design features. Rounded shapes appear in the joinery, furniture and details, and their role extends beyond mere aesthetics. Where one area flows into another, they soften the boundaries and make the space feel more gentle and relaxed. As a result, the flat takes on a natural, fluid character, and everyday life becomes intuitive.
Tailored to the residents
The changes also extended to the bathroom, where full functionality has been retained despite the new proportions. The washing machine and tumble dryer have been concealed within the built-in units, helping to maintain the calm, orderly character of the interior. In the bedroom, a work area has been created – a response to the owners’ modern lifestyle, which combines professional and private responsibilities.
The entire project was developed in close collaboration with the clients. Every decision, from the functional layout to the choice of materials, was based on an analysis of their habits and expectations. Rosewood, oak veneer and soft lines create a space that is at once bold, functional and full of light. It is a space designed with everyday comfort in mind – contemporary and personal, responding to the real needs of the household.
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About the studio:
Kubieniec Długosz is an architectural practice founded in 2013, whose development began with the design of Geszeft, a shop specialising in Silesian design – a widely discussed and award-winning project that provided a significant impetus for the studio’s future work. The practice is run by graduates of the Faculty of Architecture at the Silesian University of Technology, and their design approach stems from the values of the Silesian school of architecture: a focus on the problem, consistency in design decisions, and the belief that decoration is a result, not an end in itself. The studio handles projects from start to finish – from concept, through technical documentation and project supervision, to the final photo shoot. Although firmly rooted in the Silesian design landscape, Kubieniec Długosz does not limit itself to a single style. It combines an eye for global trends with a respect for local traditions, creating designs that can be minimalist and understated in form, or more expressive, making use of texture and colour.
design: Kubieniec Długosz
photographs: Studio archives
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