How to design a minimalist flat? This is how 3XEL Architects did it.

This flat in a turn-of-the-millennium building has undergone a metamorphosis that goes far beyond simple modernisation. It is an example of conscious design, in which architecture becomes a tool for building everyday rituals, relationships and comfort. The minimalist flat was designed by Justyna and Patryk Ławrynowicz from the 3XEL Architekci studio.

The original layout – full of random divisions and unintuitive proportions – did not meet the needs of a family of four. The decision to thoroughly rebuild was therefore not so much an aesthetic choice as a necessity. The demolition of most of the partition walls opened up the possibility of creating a completely new spatial narrative, spread over two floors with different characters.

The ground floor became the stage for everyday life. It is an open space, pulsating with life, where the kitchen, dining room, living room and open study/guest room intertwine to create a multifunctional activity zone. From the moment you step inside, you can feel that the new layout has given the flat a sense of fluidity and naturalness. The common denominator of the entire project is natural oak – present in the woodwork, doors, flooring, shelves and furniture. Its warm tone brings order to the interior, creating cohesion and a timeless character. This role is particularly evident on the ground floor: the individual zones differ in function, but remain in dialogue with each other thanks to the repetition of the material.

In the living room, a large, round mirror with backlighting attracts attention. It is not only a decoration but also a luminous landmark that adds depth and modern lightness to the space. Right next door, in the dining room, the central place is occupied by an oak table by the Polish brand Lawaform, surrounded by Betty chairs by &tradition. Above it hangs the iconic Vitra Akari lamp, whose soft, paper light introduces a subtle, artistic tone. This combination of classic design and natural materials creates an atmosphere of conscious, balanced elegance.

The kitchen has been designed with simplicity and functionality in mind. Acrylic worktops emphasise its modern character, and the combination of light-coloured upper cabinets with veneer lower cabinets creates a harmonious composition. The central island serves as a meeting place – this is where the household members stop for a quick breakfast, a short chat or a moment’s break. HAY stools, thanks to their light form, fit perfectly into the minimalist design of the kitchen, and a modular DCW Grass lamp hangs above the whole, adding modernist precision to the space.

Another important element of the ground floor are the custom-made Flutes doors with grooved glass. They gently filter the light, creating a semi-transparent boundary between the living room and the open study, which features a chaise longue by the Danish brand Softline – perfect for a short rest or working in a less formal atmosphere.

The first floor repeats the material logic of the ground floor, but changes its mood. It is a quiet, intimate space, designed with regeneration in mind. The bedroom is dominated by light-coloured furniture and a low bed platform inspired by Japanese minimalism. Subtle spot lighting creates a soft aura, complemented by the classic Artemide Falkland lamp – its textile form introduces evening calm and delicacy. The wardrobe, directly connected to the bedroom, has been designed to make everyday organisation intuitive and effortless.

The children’s space is the most relaxed part of the flat. The combination of a bedroom and a playroom gives the youngest residents the opportunity to arrange the space themselves and naturally divide its functions. Pastel colours, soft textures and the “FIGLE” neon sign add energy without disrupting the material consistency of the entire design.

design: 3XEL Architects

photos: AleksanderFigiel

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