An asylum in a pre-war tenement. This is how Alex Jaskółowska lives

In one of Warsaw’s 1930s townhouses, an interior was created that was initially intended as a showcase on the Airbnb platform, but eventually turned into Alex Jaskółowska’s private flat. The project, prepared for the travel blogger by La Folie Studio, proves that classic and quite contemporary elements can create an exceptionally harmonious whole.

Renovation of a townhouse flat

The approximately 90-square-metre flat has survived almost intact since post-war times, retaining the specific spirit of those years. The adaptation therefore required extensive modernisation of the installations and changes to the layout of the walls, but in such a way that the great history contained within these old walls was not lost. It was possible to separate an extra bedroom in the premises, and the bathroom was enlarged by part of the corridor. It was designed as a space divided into two zones: the first contains a free-standing bathtub and washbasin, while the second contains a shower, toilet and bidet.

Alex Jaskółowska’s Warsaw flat

The architects from La Folie Studio took care to preserve the characteristic elements of the pre-war architecture in the flat. The oak parquets, doors with doorframes and stuccowork were therefore restored, and in some cases they had to be reconstructed. The arrangement combines classic forms with vintage details and modern furnishings. Subdued colours, natural materials and a timeless design attract attention. The use of budget solutions that imitate more expensive finishes, such as skirting boards made up of two profiles or marble tiles instead of large slabs, was an interesting procedure.

Vintage kitchen plus antiques

The kitchen was designed to be compact and functional, mainly for occasional cooking. The interior was enriched with furniture found at auctions and refurbished pieces. These include chairs designed by Rajmund Teofil Hałas and lamps in the Hollywood Regency style. The whole creates an extremely cosy and atmospheric atmosphere.

Alex Jaskółowska’s flat

According to the original plans, the flat was to be used for short-term rental, but eventually the owner Alex Jaskółowska decided to live there permanently. The only change made after completion was the conversion of one of the bedrooms into a study. A few months later, the investor returned to the design studio she was working with with another challenge, this time for a house in the countryside.

design: La Folie Studio
photos: Moodauthors

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