In Wrzeszcz, one of Gdańsk’s most distinctive districts, architectural history intertwines with the present at almost every turn. In one of the over-century-old tenement blocks on Brzozowa Street lies a flat whose renovation was an attempt to combine respect for the existing built environment with a distinctive, contemporary design language. Maciej Ryniewicz from the Akurat studio and Rafał Kaletowski are responsible for the project.
The 80-metre flat had gradually lost its original character over the years and required a comprehensive renovation. The work, carried out under the owner’s supervision, took almost two years. In doing so, the designers had to take into account not only the age of the building, but also the conservation status of the tenement and the birch trees growing along the street.
Rather than erasing traces of history, the architects decided to bring them to the fore and complement them with new elements. The existing window and door joinery was restored, and where preservation was not possible, faithful reconstructions were carried out. Local craftsmen played a key role, helping to recreate the decorative details on the walls and ceilings. As a result, the flat’s historical character has not merely become a decorative feature, but remains an integral part of its contemporary character.
Oak, which organises the space
One of the most striking elements of the design is the entrance hall. Its wall is clad with over 200 solid oak panels, each approximately three metres long. Their rhythmic arrangement leads through the flat towards the central part of the living area.
However, the wooden surface serves more than just a decorative purpose. Hidden behind this sculptural wall are some of the utility areas – a wardrobe, a larder and the entrance to the bathroom. As a result, the technical fixtures remain almost invisible, whilst the interior retains its visual order.
A particular challenge was the small toilet with an irregular floor plan. Rather than attempting to visually conceal the room’s unusual geometry, the designers decided to emphasise it. The walls were finished with tiles laid out in a fluid, uninterrupted composition. This created an almost sculptural form which lends the interior character whilst simultaneously organising its complex geometry.
A brass island in the centre of the home
In the living area, the historic fabric of the townhouse meets far more contemporary solutions. Alongside the restored elements are vintage pieces of furniture sourced from auctions in Poland and abroad, as well as original designs by the Akurat studio, crafted by local artisans.
The most distinctive feature of the living area is the brass-clad kitchen peninsula. Its unusual triangular shape is no accident – it stems from the geometry of the room, where the living room, kitchen and dining room form a single open-plan space.
This striking piece of furniture will change over time. The brass finish will begin to develop a patina, and its surface will react to light and its surroundings. Particularly in the evening, the metal reflects light from various directions, transforming the kitchen island into what is almost a shifting sculpture.
The kitchen unit itself has been treated more as a piece of furniture than as traditional fitted units. Despite its compact size, it accommodates all the necessary functions, whilst its form remains visually consistent with the rest of the living area. A round dining table was created from the materials left over from its construction. It is accompanied by French chairs with distinctive resin seats.
Gdańsk captured in the interior
The owner has treated the flat not only as a living space, but also as a place for his collection. The walls are adorned with rare historical political posters, which he has collected over the years.
Among the contemporary references is also a painting by Jacek Kłosiński depicting Lech Wałęsa. This is a particularly clear nod to Gdańsk and its recent history – a city inextricably linked to the birth of Solidarity and the figure of its leader.
The project on Brzozowa Street does not, therefore, attempt to recreate the past exactly as it was. Instead, it uses it as a starting point for a contemporary interior. Original details, woodwork and decorations sit alongside brass, sculptural fittings, vintage furniture and bespoke designs. As a result, this over-century-old tenement has been given a new lease of life, whilst preserving the memory of the place where it was built.
Design: Akurat studio
Photography: PION Studio
See also: Flat | Architecture | Kitchen | Bathroom | Housing estate
