Flat in a pre-war building. Each room is a different journey!

The flat in a pre-war building in Budapest was commissioned by a private client (Danica), who invited Katrin Rulinskaya, founder of Katrin Mood Studio, to collaborate on the interior design. The architect was given clear guidelines: it was to be bright, subtle and the colours were to be subdued. Another requirement was to give the interior depth through the use of appropriate textures and textures, and to emphasise the 4.2-metre high ceilings.

Katrin points out that the project was not easy. The more than 115-metre-long interior was in a deplorable state. Many of the main elements (main walls, floors, doors and windows) needed extensive reconstruction. However, the architect decided to salvage everything that could be. Thus, most of the windows, door frames and doors were restored. Several new walls were also added to the interior to create bathrooms dedicated to each of the bedrooms.

One of the first rooms you find when you enter the interior is the kitchen. More than four metres high and equipped with two windows, the kitchen was the designer’s biggest dilemma, as the kitchen is located quite far from the living room, creating functional difficulties. This problem was partly solved by transforming part of the too-large corridor into a kitchen, which not only gave it more space and light, but also brought it closer to the living room with the dining area. The most interesting element of the kitchen is the stylish island made of yellow travertine, which was completely custom-designed by the architect herself. The island, although monolithic, is mobile and moveable. Its curves were applied with comfort and safety in mind. In addition, the object introduces a cheerful atmosphere, ideal for chatting with friends while cooking or having breakfast.

An interesting element is the aesthetics of the rooms themselves. As the architect explains, each room is a different story, or more precisely, a different journey. The owner is a travel enthusiast and wanted her passion to permeate the interior of her flat. A walk through the house is meant to be like a trip through memories of the world.

“My goal was to create an atmosphere that is both retro and modern. I wanted there to be a sense of nostalgia in the air, like a scent. However, it has to be subtle, not overwhelming. My main aim was to evoke positive emotions, because I believe that this is what gives a project its value. The flat has that dreamy, romantic vibe with a hint of holiday atmosphere, as if you were lounging in the sun somewhere exotic. And the sight of the old brick buildings outside adds a rough charm to the mix. The fusion of cultures was a huge inspiration.” – this is how Katrin describes her project

Katrin also emphasises the marriage of modernity and retro style. Like sacred and profane, these worlds are separated from each other, but together they create completeness. The aesthetic of the flat is based on retro and vintage style, which is emphasised by the furniture, decorations, textures or accessories. Modernity is what you can’t see. It is all the technology that has been encapsulated in the interior. This treatment allows you to enjoy that ‘romantic and dreamy atmosphere’, while not giving up the advantages of the modern world and its conveniences.

“Every detail, texture, pattern, material and fabric has been carefully chosen to complement each other, creating a harmonious dialogue. I find joy in creating such combinations as a once neglected space comes alive and takes on a spirit.” – adds the architect

Where there was a problem with insufficient sunlight, tall mirrored walls were used to illuminate the space and give it the depth that the owner wanted. Depth was also to be given by passageways topped with arches. A small art gallery was also added to the interior, as well as an area with African artefacts and a handy tea, coffee and drinks station. This clever configuration frees up space in the main kitchen for essential kitchen accessories.

“Another element that adds character is the panels. Instead of feeling ‘lonely’ through the high ceilings, we divided the walls into three levels: dark panels at a height of 1.80 metres (slightly higher than the average human height), white walls in the middle and a ceiling painted slightly lighter than the walls to create a cosy atmosphere. The panels are made from 6mm MDF frames with painted interiors, offering an elegant, simple and affordable decor option.” – adds Katrin Mood Studio founder

The wardrobe is also worth noting. To emphasise the retro vibe, the architect replaced the traditional wardrobe doors with custom-made curtains behind glass.

“The details were inspired by the surroundings – elements of the staircase, details and the colours of the city, which are also the colours used in the Art Nouveau style. And Budapest is the number one city in the world for this style. We wanted the flat to blend in with the surroundings while reflecting the owner’s personality and taste.” – concludes Katrin

How do you like the flat in a pre-war building by Katrin?

photos: Marat Gutikov
design: Katrin Rulinskaya / Katrin Mood Studio / https://www.instagram.com/katrin_mood/

Read also: Apartment | Interior | Renovation | Hungary | Eclecticism | Vintage | Modern classic

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