A flat in a modernist tenement in Łódź designed by Hanna Pietras and Anna Petrova is an example of a subtle combination of contemporary solutions with the spirit of historical architecture. The entire space exudes harmony, sophistication and a sense of aesthetics, which is characteristic of the style of Hanna Pietras Architects.
The 140m2 interior is filled with natural materials such as wood and stone. The historic soul of the flat has been preserved through restored parquet floors laid in a classic herringbone pattern, and some of the door woodwork has been preserved and refreshed.
“Our aim was to create a space that respects the historical context of the building, yet responds to the needs of contemporary users. Every detail has meaning, and the interiors tell stories that connect the past and the present,” says architect Hanna Pietras.
A climate that you can feel from the entrance
The contrasting geometric mosaic flooring in the entrance hall brings an expressive, artistic touch to the foreground. The light-coloured walls, decorated with subtle mouldings, create an elegant and calm base for the other details. The focal point is a designer wall lamp with a form reminiscent of concentric circles, which provides both functional lighting and a decorative element. A design curiosity is… a cupboard built into an old door recess. Here, the architects designed a serving window between the entrance hall and the kitchen – great for serving groceries, for example. In the background, passageways to further rooms are visible, and the arched details of the original, restored doors emphasise the characteristic atmosphere of the townhouses.
“This is where we begin our journey into our world of eclecticism,” say architects Hanna Pietras and Anna Petrova
Eclecticism not only in the details
Above all, the investors wanted a bright and fresh space with room for their mementos. Hanna Pietras added what she loves most here – eclecticism. It manifests itself here in the skilful combination of different styles and eras, which creates a unique and balanced space. Contemporary furniture and design elements are juxtaposed with historical accents, such as classic parquet floors or architectural details. On the one hand, there are the modern lines of minimalist furniture, and on the other, vintage objects such as a tennis racket, which introduce an element of nostalgia, but at the same time highlight what the investors are passionate about! This combination makes it possible to create a space that not only meets contemporary functional needs, but also pays homage to the past, thus creating a coherent whole that pleases the eye.
In the living room, the spacious vintage armchair with footrest, made of leather, attracts attention, creating a zone of comfort and relaxation. The curved, minimalist floor lamp from Aromas is a perfect example of the balance between functionality and design. The whole is complemented by designer accessories. The dining table area is also worth noting, specifically the chairs – each one is different. Where did this idea come from?
“The chairs and table are elements of particular value to the investors – they come from their previous flat and have been arranged in the new space as sentimental keepsakes. Decorative accessories and family heirlooms, collected over the years, act as a bridge between history and modernity. They give the interior a unique character, where the past meets the present. This harmonious combination of various elements, both those with a rich history and new accents, perfectly reflects the eclectic style and personality of the residents,” adds the architect.
This open space from the dining room, through the living room leads us to the kitchen. Where the architects used an interesting solution of a kitchen worktop leading out into part of the living room and providing additional seating. And the kitchen itself? The kitchen is all about natural materials. The dominant element is warm walnut-coloured wood, which covers the fronts of the cabinets.
Modern ceiling lighting in a black finish emphasises the industrial character of the space, while visible background accessories such as an artistic flower vase and asymmetrical mirror introduce elements of art and decoration. The overall design is compact, functional and ideally designed to combine practicality with aesthetics, making this kitchen a pleasant place for everyday use.
“The functionality of a space is more than just its practical use – it is the skilful combination of aesthetics, ergonomics and the needs of the user. A well-designed interior not only looks beautiful, but also facilitates everyday life by adapting to the rhythm and habits of the household members. It is a space that promotes harmony, gives a sense of comfort and fulfils its purpose, while remaining a place where one wants to stay, work and relax. It is functionality that is the key to creating an interior that really works – on every level,” – says Hanna Pietras.
An eclectic interior in a modernist townhouse in Łódź combines history with modernity
An eclectic tenement flat is a space that uniquely combines history with modernity to create a harmonious and inspiring whole. Every element of the interior, from original architectural details to contemporary touches, tells its own story, creating an atmosphere full of character and personal expression.
“For the investors, it proved crucial that the flat exudes elegance and timeless style. It was this aspect that made the project meet their expectations 100%,” adds the architect.
Carefully selected materials, such as wood and fine fabrics, give the space elegance, while colourful accents and artistic decorations bring freshness and dynamism. This space, designed by Hanna Pietras Architects in close cooperation with the investors, celebrates the diversity of styles while providing functionality and comfort, being an ideal example of a modern approach to interior design in historic buildings.
Design: Hanna Pietras,Anna Petrova
Photos: KRONIKI / https://www.kroniki.studio/
About the studio:
Hanna Pietras Architects is a boutique architecture studio of luxury private interiors and commercial (medical, hotel) interiors established in 2012 – a unique place on the design map of Lodz. In her creative process, Hanna Pietras is guided by the belief that beauty and harmony elude finite definitions, rigid frameworks and fixed schemes. She enjoys experimenting with colour and form, breaking conventions, combining styles, being inspired by trends but not succumbing to them. Design interiors that resonate with the energy of their owners and allow them to feel at ease in them. https://hannapietras.com/
Read also: Architecture in Poland | Apartment | Eclecticism | Interiors | whiteMAD on Instagram
