In one of the most distinctive buildings in São Paulo’s Jardins district, an interior has been created that combines the owners’ personal style, inspiration from 1970s architecture, and functionality suited to the couple’s modern lifestyle. Felipe, an architect, and his husband have created a home that serves both as a venue for entertaining guests and as a daily sanctuary for them and their three beloved dogs.
The starting point was the desire to live in a place where the kitchen would finally become an integral part of the living area. In their previous homes, they had never managed to achieve such a connection, so the priority here was to create a space where cooking, conversation and free movement would naturally blend with the living room and dining area. The second key requirement was a spacious, comfortable walk-in wardrobe area connected to the master bathroom, suited to the couple’s daily routines. A separate TV room also played an important role – a place for daily relaxation where they could sink into a soft sofa with their dogs, away from the area designated for entertaining guests.
The owners also wanted the kitchen to be conducive to more intimate gatherings. It was therefore designed to function as an extension of the living room, with space for wine, snacks and conversation, without having to leave the main living area.
A comprehensive renovation and a new functional layout
The flat has undergone a complete modernisation. Of the four original bedrooms, two were combined to create a spacious master suite with a walk-in wardrobe, whilst the third room was converted into a home cinema combined with a study. The living area, previously divided into three parts, has been merged with the former breakfast room and kitchen to create one large, open-plan space.
In the service area, one of the two staff rooms was incorporated into the enlarged laundry room, whilst the other was converted into a dry pantry with a wine cellar. The opening directions of some doors were also altered to improve privacy and the flow of movement.
New installations
Given the age of the building (1970s), the owners decided to completely replace the electrical and plumbing systems. The new heating system was designed to serve all hot water points simultaneously. The electrical installation was built from scratch, with a new switchboard, a greater number of circuits and zoning adapted to modern needs, including the automation of selected areas.
The architect deliberately opted against suspended ceilings in most of the living area, routing the installations directly through the ceiling. This allowed for greater room height, though it required precise planning. The standard heights of sockets and switches were also altered, adapting them to the ergonomics preferred by the owner.
Inspiration: the futuristic 1970s and 1980s
The design’s aesthetic stems from the architecture of the building itself – the glass façade, aluminium frames and the era’s characteristic atmosphere, which brings to mind American interpretations of 1970s modernism. Felipe immersed himself in the iconography of those decades: in futuristic references to the space age, in soft curves, dark woods and deep earth tones.
The living area was given a richer, more theatrical palette, whilst the private quarters were kept in white with a distinct texture, avoiding a sterile feel. The design represented a deliberate departure from the previous home, which was maintained in a classic, neoclassical spirit. Only a few pieces of mid-century furniture have been retained, harmoniously linking the past with the new context.
The structural challenges became an asset
As in many 1970s buildings, there were structural surprises. However, it turned out that the ceilings were double-layered and lacked visible beams, which allowed for the use of floor-to-ceiling doors and a cleaner, more contemporary effect. On the other hand, routing the services through the ceiling required more time and meticulous planning. Ultimately, it was the specific nature of the structure that allowed for solutions that might have proved impossible in a newer building.
The interior has been designed as a sequence of experiences. Upon entering the flat, the visitor finds themselves in a small gallery where the wood-clad lift shaft becomes a display feature. Here, one finds collectibles, works by Geraldo de Barros, sculptures and lighting by Santa & Cole. This is the first hint of the aesthetic that runs through the entire home: Brazilian art, design, personal mementos and a warm interpretation of wood.
The living area – comprising the living room, dining room, kitchen and bar area – forms a single fluid space. It is dominated by browns, mustard accents, shades of amber and metallic details. The kitchen extends into the living room thanks to a large island and a Palomino quartzite worktop, which becomes the focal point of the space. Dark veneered built-in units tie the whole space together, lending it cohesion and depth.
In the dining room, the central feature is a table designed in Felipe’s studio. The stainless steel frame is paired with a glass top, which can be extended using a removable wooden frame to accommodate larger gatherings. It is accompanied by Swiss chairs sourced from an antique shop, reinforcing the dialogue between bespoke design, vintage furniture and contemporary pieces that is characteristic of the entire project.
Greenery is introduced via a large, woven vase designed in-house, filled with chamedorias. This is a subtle nod to the aesthetics of the 1970s, but with a modern twist. The bar area consists of a USM module and a 1970s bar, inspired by Scapinelli’s Italian designs, also sourced from an antique shop.
A clear division of functions
Behind the gallery and the living room lies a more intimate part of the living area – the TV room. This space has been designed with everyday comfort in mind. The dominant feature is a modular sofa approximately 3.80 metres long, positioned opposite a curved panel that envelops the interior and creates the impression of a soft, welcoming capsule.
Adjacent to the TV room is a study with a curved desk and bookcases. It is a place where, alongside books and albums, objects from childhood and keepsakes of sentimental value are displayed. This introduces a more personal, less formal tone, emphasising that this is a space for work, but also for memories and reflection.
The master suite has undergone the most dramatic transformation. One of the former rooms has been entirely converted into a wardrobe, creating a spacious walk-in. The key feature was combining the wardrobe with the bathroom into a single functional unit: an island with drawers flows seamlessly into a countertop with a washbasin. Above it hang adjustable mirrors inspired by make-up mirrors, whilst an additional large mirror enhances the sense of depth.
The bedroom is kept in white with a distinct texture, with textiles as the only colour accents. It is a deliberately tranquil space, designed with rest in mind.
The bathrooms throughout the apartment are designed around the concept of a home spa. Mosaic tiles cover not only the walls but also the ceilings, creating an enveloping, uniform environment. In the master bathroom, a Carrara Gioia Venatino marble worktop with a white background and grey veining has been used, emphasising the clarity and elegance of this part of the apartment.
design: Felipe Carolo
photography: Fran Parente
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