The tenement building on Kielecka Street in Stary Mokotow features a project by Studio Zemła, which was created in collaboration with architect Olga Guz. The flat covers more than 160 square metres and is characterised by an expressive composition and a carefully considered layout, perfect for a family of four. The two combined units have been transformed into a cohesive space where history meets bold use of colour, light and art.
The entrance to the flat was treated as a prelude to the story to follow. The hallway, deprived of natural light, was designed in dark navy blue tones. Custom-made furnishings dominate, including a lacquered wood-framed wardrobe finished with wallpaper by Dedar, and a bench with Kvadrat fabric by Raf Simons. Atmospheric interior lighting is provided by a Fabbian ceiling lamp and a Nemo wall lamp by Le Corbusier. From the dark hallway, one moves into a bright living room with high windows that let in plenty of light and are reminiscent of elegant Parisian interiors. Instead of a television, there are bookshelves and a collection of paintings. The space is complemented by classic furniture, including an LC2 armchair in burgundy upholstery, a Noguchi table and a solid oak table with Bruno Rey chairs in dark burgundy. This is completed by the Nemo movable lamp, which introduces an element of dynamism to the arrangement.
Mokotów flat highlighted by the colour
Colour in the flat plays an organising role and becomes the main content of the overall composition. The children’s room is dominated by lime, red and natural oak. The cabinets and bookcases were made to measure, and details such as handles, textiles and the Kvadrat carpet were chosen with harmony and enjoyment in mind. The room is cosy and perfect for the youngest member of the family, as well as being fully functional. The hallway also leads to a bathroom with a large mirror and a rounded wall, to the laundry room and to a room that acts as a place of tranquillity. This interior is dominated by whites, greys, oak and linen accents and is designed to promote relaxation. A piano is also placed here, further emphasising the family character of this small space.
A townhouse interior with a strong statement
The kitchen also stands out with its intense colour scheme. Mustard-coloured fronts are juxtaposed with three-dimensional handles, a Taj Mahal quartzite worktop and the red accent of Gessi faucets. Functionality was combined here with a distinct aesthetic, reminiscent of sculptural forms. A small table and bench with Raf Simons upholstery have been placed in the dining area, while a wall of birch veneer conceals the passage to the private hosts’ area. Part of the former servant’s quarters has been converted into a private back room for the householders. The lower ceiling and smaller windows open up to the greenery, which promotes a sense of tranquillity. The bedroom, furnished with a Hästens bed, is surrounded by soft Pierre Frey fabrics and Dedar wallpaper. It is accompanied by furniture made of chevron, linen curtains and Gubi lamps, which create an atmosphere of elegance and comfort. From the bedroom, an amphitheatre passage leads to a dressing room finished in oak veneer and full of natural light. The second bathroom combines different materials and textures. It uses black and light CE.SI tiles with a glassy sheen, steel fittings, ceramic wall finishes and veneer in the entrance area.
Mokotow flat as a story
In the flat on Kielecka Street, layers of colour, light and respect for preserved elements such as stucco, woodwork and oak parquet floors build a coherent and multidimensional whole. It is a space designed not as a stage set, but as a place where everyday life becomes an integral part of the architecture.
Design: Studio Zemła
Photography: Nate Cook
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