An apartment has been created on Kraków’s Narodowa Górka that proves that 38 square metres can become a fully-fledged living space – provided that designers and developers are prepared to take bold decisions. In this case, the key was not only the thoughtful use of every centimetre, but also the redefinition of the functional layout.
The idea that would shape the entire project emerged as early as the initial site inspection.
“We wanted it to be possible to see the light streaming in through the large balcony window from the entrance,” said Anna Rybacka from the head made studio, which designed the interior. It was this idea that led to the bedroom and living room being swapped. As a result, the small flat gained a sense of depth, and its layout ceased to be predictable.
Loft-style wall
The new division of space required precise solutions. The bedroom was separated from the living area by a 2.4-metre-high loft partition, fitted with double doors featuring grooved glass. This solution allowed light to reach the kitchenette whilst maintaining privacy in the sleeping area. The wall’s diagonal positioning was no accident – it allowed a full-size table to fit in the kitchen, and the entire layout gained a distinct sense of dynamism.
“This approach completely transformed the perception of the space,” emphasises Anna Rybacka. The slant was later repeated in the furniture details: in the wall-mounted cupboards in the bedroom, in the headboard of the bed, and in the end piece of the bookcase in the living room. These are subtle yet consistent references that organise the interior and lend it a sense of cohesion.
Bespoke furniture
Given the limited floor space, the priority was to create as much storage space as possible. The built-in units in the entrance area flow seamlessly into the kitchen; the bedroom features a spacious wardrobe and a row of wall-mounted cupboards; and the living room has a bookcase, a wardrobe and a small desk. The bathroom also features well-thought-out storage solutions, including a large cabinet under the washbasin that houses the washing machine.
In the kitchen, particular attention was paid to the natural stone worktops, which the clients considered a key feature. In addition to the main work surface, an extra worktop was designed in the recess above the oven, creating the perfect spot for a coffee machine.
Modernist inspirations
The budget required sensible choices regarding materials, which is why most of the cabinet fronts were made from laminated panels in shades of beige, complemented by accents of brick red and orange. Black skirting boards and metal details in the bathroom act as a graphic outline, bringing order to the composition.
The walls are covered with wallpaper in a variety of textures – from neutral, fabric-like finishes to geometric patterns in the bedroom and a bolder design in the living room. In the bathroom and above the kitchen worktop, small ceramic tiles have been used, with the grout lines forming a subtle grid.
The modernist character of the housing estate served as the inspiration for the entire design. Simple forms, clear divisions and a balanced colour scheme ensure that the interior is both functional and full of personality.
The project on Narodowa Górka is an example of how conscious design decisions can transform a small space into one that not only fulfils all its functions but also provides a sense of freedom. This flat does not pretend to be larger than it is, but cleverly makes the most of its limitations, creating an interior with a distinctive, modern character.
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About the studio:
Thehead madedesign studio was founded in 2011 by Anna Rybacka, a graduate of the Faculty of Interior Design at the Academy of Fine Arts in Kraków, who previously worked at the ‘bez atu’ Interior and Furniture Design Studio. The studio has completed numerous projects for both private and public interiors. In its designs, it combines traditional technologies and objects with contemporary elements. It values the individuality of interiors achieved through the skilful integration of art objects. It particularly enjoys projects in buildings with historical potential, which offer the opportunity for unconventional arrangements.
design: Anna Rybacka – head made
photos: Pietruszka Fotografia
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