A new 135-square-metre flat near Kabacki Forest, designed by Ewa Wolańska of the Perfect‑Living studio, is an example of how contemporary architecture can capture the atmosphere of pre-war tenement blocks. Situated right next to Kabacki Forest, with views of greenery and low-rise buildings, it has become a home for a young family seeking to combine modern solutions with the atmosphere of interiors characteristic of old Warsaw.
The architect opted for an eclectic approach based on the simple forms of modernism and natural materials. It is these elements that define the character of the flat, in which every detail has been carefully considered with regard to functionality and the everyday comfort of all its occupants.
Layout for a family of two
The centrepiece of the flat is the living area, spanning over 50 metres, comprising the living room and a kitchen with a superbly designed larder. This area opens onto the terrace, further enhancing the connection with the surrounding greenery. The private area has been clearly separated – it comprises two children’s bedrooms, a master bedroom with a walk-in wardrobe, a home office, two bathrooms and a large, almost 10-metre-long walk-in wardrobe combined with a laundry room and additional storage space.
Initial changes
The project was not limited to rearranging the existing space. The walk-in wardrobe by the entrance was converted into a home office, the bathroom adjoining the parents’ bedroom was repurposed as a private walk-in wardrobe, and an additional storage room was created in the private area. Thanks to these modifications, the flat now better meets the needs of a family of four.
The biggest challenge turned out to be the diagonal layout of the living room in relation to the kitchen and the rest of the flat. To maintain visual coherence, the flooring was laid in two directions – in the living room and the hallway, it changes orientation, which helped to visually organise the space and emphasise its character.
The most interesting solutions
The architect opted for warm whites, walnut veneer and shades of blue and terracotta. In the kitchen, the orange Smeg fridge catches the eye, adding a vibrant touch. The fitted kitchen units with veneered fronts and the large island – despite their size – do not overwhelm the interior. Another key element is the openwork bookcase set against a wall painted in the same colour, which adds a sense of lightness and creates an interesting design detail.
The design also features Flowerpot lamps, Kartell side tables, a restored Danish table with chairs, and Wowdesign tiles. The owners brought several pieces of vintage furniture with them from their previous flat – these introduce subtle references to tenement interiors, which were the architect’s main source of inspiration. The wall next to the kitchen is adorned, amongst other things, by an old clock, which now tells the time in what is the heart of the family’s gatherings.
design: Ewa Wolańska – Perfect-Living
photography: Kamil Lech – Digital Estate Studio
See also: Flat | Warsaw | Interiors | Modernism | Eclecticism | whiteMAD on Instagram
