Until recently, renting a flat in Poland was associated with mediocrity, i.e. old furniture and a worn-out kitchen. Today, the expectations of tenants, who are no longer looking only for comfort but also for style, are growing. The trend of ‘aestheticising tenancy’, well-known in the West, is also gaining popularity here. In response to this phenomenon, landlords are increasingly investing in thoughtful design. This was the case with the two-storey premises on Aleja Solidarności in Warsaw, which the investors entrusted to Monika Michałowska. They wanted the architect to create for them an elegant flat full of natural materials, meeting the needs of demanding tenants.
Living room with kitchen in an aesthetic setting
In the open-plan living area, the minimalist but warm kitchen catches the eye. Its lower cabinets are made in a beige shade, with vertical milling, which adds lightness and rhythm to the development. The upper cabinets and open shelves in light oak flow seamlessly with the rest of the flat. The stone worktop and the soft-draw backsplash curved against the wall add a subtle retro charm to the kitchen. The whole look is complemented by the mirrored Arcs Wall Sconce wall sconces from HAY. The focal point of the space is an oval table surrounded by chairs in cinnamon tones. Their soft lines and tactile fabric break up the austerity of the kitchen setting. This is the Ripple model from Comforty, designed by Krystian Kowalski. Above the table hangs the iconic Flowerpot lamp. The seating area features a sofa in a shade of warm beige, a natural rug and a maroon RTV cabinet by TYLKO. The latter is distinguished by its intense colour, which breaks up the calm palette. The wall between the windows is decorated with three graphics by Karol Pomykała.
Elegant flat and staircase like a sculpture
The staircase, which was originally intended to take up more space, was completely redesigned. Michałowska reduced and moved the staircase, gaining more space in the living room and additional rooms on the first floor: a bathroom and a room that were previously impossible to plan. The new form of the staircase resembles a sculpture suspended in the air. The warm white lacquered aluminium looks like a folded sheet of paper. Hidden under the staircase is a practical wardrobe integrated into the space, discreet yet roomy.
A subtle play of textures and history in the bedroom
On the first floor, there was a small but carefully designed bedroom. A built-up area was created around the bed to organise the space, creating an intimate frame for tranquillity. The focal point of the wall is the ‘Seasons by May’ wallpaper by William Morris with an earthy, floral composition, evoking the spirit of English craftsmanship. The bed in deep brown, upholstered in bouclé fabric, is complemented by textiles from Warsaw’s Conco showroom. Next to it stood the ceramic Oka table designed by Maja Ganszyniec and the Pastform chest of drawers, which can be used as a dressing table. The whole, although frugal, gives the impression of refinement and cosiness, providing a place for regeneration and tranquillity.
A small home office with great potential
An additional room on the first floor functions as a study. The small room with a window onto the staircase has been furnished with functionality and aesthetics in mind. A desk, a String bookcase and an original chair designed by Hałas (restored by Sylwia Biegaj) create a composition that inspires work and concentration. The upholstery in a mix of fabrics makes this piece of furniture a comfortable and distinctive accent piece.
Bathrooms – two different narratives, same language
The lower bathroom is a space of calm. Stoneware that imitates natural stone, zellige tiles that reflect light and a veneered cabinet under the washbasin create an interior that has a soothing effect. Here, it is the detail that counts: an oval mirror, milky wall lamps and elegant fittings create an impression of harmony. The upper bathroom, although much smaller, is not inferior to the one below. Light colours dominate here, with accents of dark wood and ceramics. Black accessories, such as hooks, shelves and a paper holder, add character without destroying the visual balance. The materials used and their arrangement show that even in a small space, a sophisticated effect can be achieved.
An elegant home that lives
The interior of Monika Michałowska’s project is not one of those “for show”. Here, the architect has created a space that invites you to live. It is dominated by the warmth of natural materials: wood, stone, ceramics and fabrics. A calm, consistent colour palette links all the rooms without taking away their individuality. Every detail has been considered for comfort and aesthetics.
Source: monikamichalowska.com
Photos: Martyna Rudnicka
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