In a high-rise block in Poznań, right next to one of the city’s parks, there is a flat whose renovation has shown just how much potential such spaces hold. This corner flat, measuring just over 70 square metres, opens out onto greenery on two sides, and its layout – with spacious corridors, a separate kitchen and a large balcony – is an example of the division of functional zones that have accompanied (and continues to accompany) Poles for decades. Architect Ludomira Krzynowek-Wosińska from the KRZY/WO studio embraced this layout, giving the residents a completely new, contemporary interior design.
Modernist heritage
The first encounter with the interior was like a journey back in time. The preserved sections of wooden flooring, the original terrazzo, panelling and wallpaper revealed the history of the era in which the building was constructed. Although the flat required a thorough refurbishment, the designer knew from the outset that its greatest value lay in its modernist character – the space, light and proportions that cannot be replicated in new developments. Rather than attempting to faithfully reconstruct the former décor, the result is an interior design that draws on the past but speaks a contemporary language. Decorative motifs typical of late modernism were applied to the large surfaces of the bespoke joinery, whilst the wood – present throughout the flat – took on a darker, more refined shade. The old materials have given way to microcement, which has introduced a sense of calm and visual continuity between the rooms.
Light, space and art
Natural light plays a key role here. Throughout the day, it shapes the interiors, highlighting the textures of the wood, microcement and fabrics. In the living room, a painting by Fran Wasi catches the eye – an intense pink that acts as a counterpoint to the subdued palette of greens, neutral tones and dark wood. Alongside it are works by Felicja Parasol, which lend the space a more personal, collector’s character. It is art that lends the interior its individuality, ensuring it is not merely an aesthetic realisation, but a place that tells the story of its inhabitants. The living room also features accessories that reinforce its modernist flair – ‘The Good Living’ chair, a vintage marble side table and ficus plants, which add a soft, homely touch.
Kitchen and bedroom
The kitchen combines classic design with a subtle touch of modernity. Wooden base units are paired with light-coloured fronts on the wall units, and the whole is complemented by brass details. A sculptural terracotta-coloured lamp, reminiscent of an unfurled flower, brings a sense of lightness, as do the selected functional objects. On one of the walls hangs a graphic by Nikodem Szpunar in a vivid pink, which harmonises with the artworks in the living room. An Alessi retro kettle and metal tableware elements add character to the kitchen without disrupting its serene composition.
The bedroom has a more intimate feel, where the colour palette has been limited to soft, muted tones. A stronger accent is provided by the wooden panelling behind the bed, which subtly echoes motifs found in the rest of the flat. The space features delicate works of art – a small screen print by Sonia Dubois – and a vintage wooden chair. In the hallway, the Casamance wallpaper catches the eye, introducing a soft decorative touch without overpowering the architecture.
A contemporary interpretation of modernism
The entire project is a conscious dialogue with the building’s architecture. The interior makes no attempt to hide its history – on the contrary, it draws on its most valuable aspects and translates them into the contemporary language of family life. As a result, the flat retains the character of the space whilst becoming a natural backdrop for its residents’ everyday lives. This project demonstrates that the modernist heritage can be not only a source of inspiration but also a fully-fledged element of contemporary design.
design: Ludomira Krzynowek – Wosińska – KRZY/WO interior design studio
photographs: Pietruszka Photography
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