For the architect couple, a dwelling with an almost century-old pedigree was quite a challenge reminiscent of an archaeologist’s work: uncovering layers long hidden underneath successive reconstructions. In their own apartment, Anna Nowak-Rogowska and Michał Rogowski of Pracownia Annowska focused on the quality of the materials and uncovering traces of history. They wanted an interior that would reflect the spirit of bygone years and at the same time be a good place to live comfortably in the second decade of the 21st century.
The architects’ couple’s flat in Rembertów
The building in which the architects’ flat is located was built in 1926 as part of a complex erected for military personnel stationed in Rembertów near Warsaw. The area used to have limited access, but is now part of a quiet neighbourhood surrounded by greenery. The intimate scale of the buildings here creates an atmosphere conducive to everyday interactions and gives the area the feel of a small, orderly town.
The subdivision of the 80 sq m flat
The flat is 80 sq m in size and has been partitioned with a solid wall. This arrangement creates a natural division into an activity area for the occupants and a more intimate area. Through this, the space functions very clearly and the individual parts complement each other without interfering with each other’s role.
Living zone – living room and kitchen
The southern part of the premises is occupied by the living room connected to the kitchen. It is a place for daily life and meetings, filled with plants, books and small keepsakes. Exposed brick juxtaposed with the retained wooden floor creates a solid base for the calm colour palette. Surrounding the industrial kitchen are designs by Jindřich Halabala and Anders Pehrson juxtaposed with furniture from Ikea and those remembering bygone eras.
Private area – bathroom and bedroom
The northern part of the flat leads from the entrance through the hall to the bathroom and the bedroom. Here, a calming atmosphere reigns, based on a marriage of brick and soft fabrics. Warm tones and a variety of textures create the image of a place designed strictly for relaxation. The owners have taken care to create a calm rhythm in the interior, so that the space is conducive to regeneration and allows the intense course of the day to come to a halt.
The flat of an architectural couple – light and materials
The flat is filled with a large amount of natural light, which emphasises the structure of the walls and the drawing of the floor. The combination of brick, fabrics and delicate lighting fixtures creates an effect of harmony based on simple means. The materials introduce a sense of warmth and create a perfectly designed backdrop for daily activities.
Renovation of a townhouse flat
The flat of the architects’ couple from Pracownia Annowska has been given a whole new rhythm by uncovering old layers of history and combining them with the amenities of modern urban living. The interior retains the memory of years gone by, while offering a clear layout of functions.
Design: Pracownia Annowska – Anna Nowak-Rogowska, Michał Rogowski
Photographs: Kaja Osikowska-Tasz
Styling: Ewa Alicja Jezierska
Read also: Apartment | Interiors | Warsaw | Tenement | Detail | whiteMAD on Instagram
