In Gdańsk’s Wrzeszcz district, in a tenement house dating back to 1890, restored with respect for its original character, they renovated a flat that combines the history of the place with modern design sensibility. The building, recognisable by its loggias running along its entire height, became the backdrop for the “Wa10” project – a design created for Marcin, a father of two who needed a functional, organised space ready for the daily rhythm of family life. The space metamorphosis project was created by Raca Design Studio.
The most important challenge was to reorganise the layout of the flat to accommodate three full-size rooms, a comfortable kitchen with a dining area and a bathroom, which previously… was not part of the flat. It was located in a common area, shared with the neighbouring flat, which required not only creativity from the designers, but also a precise approach to installation and construction. The result of these efforts is an interior that has regained its logic and fluidity, while gaining a new, distinctive identity.
The inspiration for the arrangement was the Japandi style, interpreted here with great sensitivity and enriched with mid-century modern accents. This combination defines the way of thinking about the interior: simple, natural, but at the same time elegant and timeless. The colour scheme is based on muted green, brick red, off-white and dark wood, creating a calm, organic base. It is counterbalanced by black and burgundy details, which add energy to the interior and emphasise its character.
Japanese inspirations
One of the most recognisable elements of the design is the built-in furniture with protruding body panels. Their proportions are reminiscent of Japanese tatami mats, and the vertical slats on the fronts and door transoms subtly refer to shōji walls. These are details that do not dominate, but build an atmosphere – perceptible, yet unobtrusive.
After functional changes, the centre of home life moved to the kitchen connected to the dining room. It is a space that benefits from natural light coming in through the loggias, giving it softness and depth. The small dining room has become a place for everyday gatherings, and its distinctive accent is the Bushido wallpaper with a Japanese dragon motif. This decorative element introduces a touch of boldness and contrast to the interior, breaking up the calm colour palette and giving the space an individual character.
The new bathroom, separated from the dining room by a glass block wall, is an example of the skilful use of light. Brick red and dark wood create an intimate atmosphere here, and the natural light penetrating through the glass adds an almost theatrical mood to the interior. Burgundy details tie this part of the flat together with the rest of the design, emphasising the consistency of the project.
The bedroom and children’s rooms focus on functionality and cosiness. Built-in furniture organises the space, offering convenient storage, while natural materials and a consistent colour scheme create a sense of harmony. These are interiors that do not try to impress, but rather support everyday life – quiet, soft and well thought-out.
“Wa10” is a project that shows how contemporary design can correspond with history without trying to drown it out. In Marcin’s flat, the past and the present come together naturally, and the whole creates a space that is functional, atmospheric and deeply personal. This is what the new version of the 73 sq m flat looks like. Well done!
design: Raca DesignStudio
photos: ZASOBYStudio
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