A flat in a 1980s block of flats in Kraków was designed by Alicja Karwowska-Dziedzic and Bartłomiej Dziedzic of the Norestudio studio. The 63-square-metre interior proves that it is possible to live beautifully in the so-called ‘big plate’. The flat was purchased in a condition suitable only for general renovation. It is located in a residential area -Kurdwanów Nowy, which is far from the centre of Krakow. Most of the housing estate are blocks of flats from the 80-90s.
“The owners of the flat are Oliwia and Grzegorz – a young couple who, despite the considerable challenges of the upcoming renovation, out of sentiment for the housing estate and appreciation of the advantages and assumptions of old construction, decided to breathe a new spirit into the neglected space. The Norestudio studio prepared an arrangement for this 63m2 space, taking advantage of its advantages – a favourable layout of the rooms and access to 3 sides of the world. The wide corridor made it possible to functionally arrange the space with built-in furniture, allowing a large number of the owners’ books to be displayed and outerwear to be placed in closed sections.” – explain the architects
For the investors, it was important to prepare a flat with a timeless design, which at the same time fulfils its function for a young and dynamic couple, as well as fitting in with the aesthetics of the old housing estate. The result of these intentions is a space that draws on the colours and forms of modernism and Polish design from the communist era.
“Simple, functional furniture was proposed, making maximum use of the existing space, enlivened by interesting free-standing furniture and accessories. The refurbishment involved replacing electrical installations, levelling walls and replacing flooring, and a number of challenges were encountered along the way, which were successfully overcome. The biggest challenge proved to be the arrangement of the small bathroom, which needed to accommodate a shower and space for a washing machine and sink. The existing space with a bathtub was converted into a shower recess with a high built-in unit, which accommodates the washing machine as well as household chemicals. And another recess for the washbasin catches the eye.” – add Alicja and Bartosz
In the kitchen, it was important to create a space for daily dining. The space under the window was used for this purpose, extending the line of the worktop. Given the small space of the kitchen, and not wanting to overwhelm it with a massive enclosure (e.g. for the fridge), the studio proposed a white enclosure, flush with the line of the door opening, giving the impression of an extension of the corridor walls. Doors were dispensed with here, facilitating communication and optically widening the space.
Project metrics:
Designer: Norestudio Alicja Karwowska-Dziedzic, Bartłomiej Dziedzic https://noreststudio-wnetrza.pl/
Photos: Joanna Krowiranda https://www.joannakrowiranda.com/
Location: Kraków, Kurdwanów Nowy housing estate
Area: 63 sqm
Date of completion: June 2024
Scope of the project: complex, 3d model, author’s supervision including general renovation
Read also: Achitektura w Polsce | Apartment | Interiors | Apartment | Krakow | Architecture of the Polish People’s Republic | Socialist Realism | Modernism
