At a time when the square footage of flats in cities is becoming increasingly compact and property prices are constantly rising, studio flats are returning to favour as an alternative to larger units. Although often seen as transitional spaces, they are increasingly becoming the conscious choice of those looking for functional, aesthetically pleasing and well-designed interiors. The key to success in this type of realisation is skilful space management and a creative approach to the division of functional zones. A perfect example of such an implementation is a studio apartment with a mezzanine in one of the beautiful pre-war tenement houses in Poznań. The project was realised by VERSJA studio.
History in a modern version
The flat of 27 sq m, with an additional mezzanine of 9 sq m, is located in the heart of the Lazarz district – one of the most atmospheric parts of Poznań. It is located on Henryka Siemiradzkiego Street, near Wilson Park. The project aimed to create a functional, compact space, while retaining the original townhouse character of the interior. The high ceiling, the large classical window and the preserved and restored stucco – cleaned, restored and repainted in its original colour – are elements that define the flat. These historical details become a counterpoint to the modern solutions that have been used in the arrangement of the space.
A studio apartment with mezzanine – zoning
The focal point of the flat is the multifunctional black block. This design element is not only an eye-catcher, but also has an organisational function. The logical division of the flat into three zones is built around it. The first of these is the service zone, which includes a corridor, a bathroom and a cleverly concealed dressing room. All these elements have been integrated into the structure of the block, so that they do not dominate the rest of the interior, but at the same time form an integral part of it. The next zone is the living space, i.e. a spacious living room with a kitchenette, which is seamlessly integrated into the side of the black module. Such a move allows the flat to remain open without sacrificing the functionality of the kitchen. The final, third zone is the sleeping area. The bedroom is located on a mezzanine floor, which is accessed by an elegantly integrated staircase. This solution not only makes maximum use of the interior height, but also provides the occupant with comfort and a sense of privacy.
Interior colours and rhythm
The arrangement relies on a subdued, minimalist colour palette. Grey dominates, emphasising the calm and modern character of the interior. At the same time, red accents, such as the chairs and RTV cabinet, give the space energy and expressiveness, breaking its ascetic expression and introducing a subtle colour rhythm.
VERSJA – about the studio
The VERSJA team from Poznań is responsible for the realisation. It is an interdisciplinary design studio that specialises in creating spaces that combine history with modernity. Its approach involves an in-depth analysis of the place, the needs of the users and the specifics of the existing architectural fabric. The team’s experience in the real estate industry means that it is able to manage an investment comprehensively – from concept to design to completion.
Project: VERSJA(instagram, facebook)
Photos: Jaga Kraupe
Read more: Architecture in Poland | Interiors | Poznan | Tenement house | Apartment
