The interior design by IDA Design Mates is the story of a search for a balance between classic elegance and contemporary lightness. The homeowner wanted a calm, subdued space without excessive ornamentation. Her dream was a classic style, but without the heaviness that often accompanies traditional solutions. The architect duo responded to these expectations by creating an interior in which neoclassicism is combined with eclectic elements. Tradition meets modernity, and the local cultural context becomes an integral part of the design.
The inspiration came from the city of Almaty – its architecture, rhythm of life and art. The designers drew on the work of local craftsmen and Kazakh artists, giving the interior a dimension rooted in the national heritage. The colour palette was chosen to create an atmosphere of warmth and harmony. Natural tones, soft textures and welcoming materials create a space where it is easy to calm down. Sanderson, Morris & Co and Thibaut wallpapers adorn the walls, while natural wood – often hand-carved – lends authenticity to the interior. The arrangement features furniture by Roche Bobois and Caracole, lighting by Aromas del Campo and Forestier, ceramics by Villeroy & Boch, fittings by Grohe and accessories by Anthropologie. The whole is complemented by classic construction materials and Dulux paints.
The most striking accent of the flat is the monumental mosaic in the kitchen, inspired by Moldakhmet Kenbaev and Nikolai Tsivchinsky’s work ‘Girl with a souvenir’. It depicts a young woman in traditional dress, holding an amulet in her hands. This motif, chosen almost simultaneously by the client and the designer, became the symbol of the entire interior. Above the kitchen island hangs a chandelier, the form of which is coincidentally related to the shape of the amulet – a happy coincidence that gave the space additional coherence.
The implementation process was not without its challenges. The centrally located load-bearing column forced a reorganisation of the functional layout. Instead of treating it as an obstacle, the designers turned it into a reference point around which circulation was organised. A book niche was created next to it – rarely found in the entrance area – and the column itself was veneered and decorated with a painting by a Kazakh artist.
The interior is full of contrasts. Reclaimed and recycled elements appear alongside luxurious materials – such as chairs bought on OLX, refurbished and upholstered in Dedar fabric. Delicate stucco is juxtaposed with an ultra-modern chandelier made from Forestier ropes, and marble finishes sit alongside simple custom-printed wallpaper. It is in this play of opposites that the strength of the design lies – the classic gains freshness and the modern gains depth.
Special attention has been given to the children’s rooms. Although small, they are full of atmosphere and warmth. In the little girl’s room, there is a reading corner with a chair and lamp, a mirror and hangers for accessories – all adapted to the child’s height. This is the realisation of a dream for the client, who shared a room with her three sisters when she was a child. The boy’s room is more sparse in form, but is enriched by a painting depicting a grandmother riding a bicycle with her grandchildren – a touching tribute to family memories.
designed by Aisha Adilshiyeva and Samat Moldir “Ida design mates studio”
photos: Damir Otegen
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