On Wolsztyn’s main shopping street, in a tenement house dating back to the late 19th century, a space has been created that combines the functions of a design office and an intimate concept store. This place was created by interior designer Katarzyna Hoffmann from the LaskowskaWnętrza studio, who decided to breathe new life into the premises, which had been hidden for years under layers of successive renovations and tenants.
The building, dating from 1898, served shopkeepers for decades. The neighbouring premises housed the oldest grocery store in the area, run by the owner of the tenement house for over 70 years. When the architect took over the space, she knew she was in for an encounter with history. The original wooden floor was discovered under the tiles and rubber flooring. After cleaning and renovation, it became one of the most important elements of the interior, giving it a natural character and cohesion. The same was true of the doors, which were hand-cleaned of several layers of oil paint and now once again display their original structure.
An open space from recycled materials
The ceiling proved to be the biggest challenge. The old, badly damaged coffers were verging on kitsch, but the architect saw their potential. After renovation and repainting, they became one of the most recognisable elements of the studio. Although initially no one believed in this idea, today it is difficult to imagine this space without its characteristic ceiling in a muted shade of blue.
The interior layout was unchanged – two former rooms connected by a joist now form one open space. After removing the old floor and exposing the boards, the space needed to be filled with concrete, but this allowed its original character and proportions to be preserved.
The architect did much of the work herself, with the help of family and friends. She entrusted the more serious tasks to a friendly renovation team. The result is an interior that does not look like a turnkey project, but like a place that is maturing along with its owner.
Soft colours, natural textures, eclecticism
From the outset, the architect had a clear vision: soft beiges and browns, natural materials, simplicity of form and light that emphasises the century-old walls. The colour scheme is warm and cosy, and the muted blue ceiling provides a subtle counterpoint.
The interior style can be described as eclectic, combining historical, contemporary and chance-found elements. One of the owner’s favourite accents are chairs brought from Germany, a gift from a friend. The space also features furniture and accessories that the architect uses in her design work.
Walls by chance
One of the most surprising discoveries turned out to be… the walls. The architect dreamed of light surfaces with a delicate finish. When she entered the premises during the work, she was delighted with the texture and colour of what she saw. It turned out to be a preliminary plaster mortar. After impregnation, it remained permanently, creating a subtle, natural background for the entire arrangement.
Today, the renovated space houses a design office and, more recently, a concept store. It is a place where the architect presents things she likes and works with on a daily basis – from small items to interior design elements. The space serves as a showroom, studio and meeting point with clients. With history in the background!
design: Katarzyna Hoffmann-LaskowskaWnętrza
photos: Jaga Kraupe
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