Nowa Huta in colour – this is the most apt way to describe the transformation of the 87-square-metre flat in the Na Skarpie housing estate, designed by Maria Kosińska-Krupa of the Huta Wnętrz studio. The owners, Dominika and Paweł, knew from the outset that they did not want a neutral or predictable space. They opted for colour, art and deliberate references to vintage design, creating an interior that is vibrant, inspiring and remains functional in everyday life.
The makeover encompassed both the functional layout and the character of the interiors. The designer focused on giving the flat a sense of cohesion, improved practicality and a distinct identity based on colour, light and details that reflect the owners’ everyday needs.
Renovation within the old layout
One of the key changes was the removal of the impractical toilet, which took up valuable space in the entrance area. In its place, spacious built-in storage was created, concealing the laundry area behind mirrored fronts. This has brought order to the flat and created a more rational layout.
The bathroom proved to be a major challenge, requiring a complete repositioning of the plumbing connections. In buildings from this period, such work can be unpredictable, but ultimately we managed to create a space that is comfortable, modern and functionally refined.
The power of colour
From the moment you enter, it is clear that the flat has a distinct character. The colour scheme on the walls and concealed doors references old-style panelling, but with a fresh, contemporary twist. These are complemented by glass blocks and colourful floor tiles, which brighten up this part of the flat and introduce a sense of lightness.
Behind the glass blocks lies the study – a workspace that remains visually connected to the rest of the flat. It is not isolated, but forms a natural extension of the living area.
A library within easy reach
The central part of the flat is formed by an open-plan living area – a combination of kitchen, dining room and living room. Its most important feature is a bookcase almost 5 metres long. Books are an essential part of the owners’ lives, and for Dominika also a work tool, which is why such a large bookcase was one of the key design principles.
Next to the bookcase is the dining area with a round oak table, vintage chairs and an iconic lamp designed by Louis Poulsen. Opposite it is a brick corner unit, which adds a strong accent and provides a counterbalance to the simple form of the bookcase. It is accompanied by a composition of paintings, lighting and geometric forms on the walls.
The kitchen, though small, catches the eye with its combination of blue, shades of yellow, wood and coral. Granite worktops add elegance, whilst the yellow radiator covers with semi-oval cut-outs and a window in the same colour emphasise the natural light, which lingers exceptionally long in this part of the flat.
Bathroom and bedroom
The bathroom is the most graphic interior in the flat. Cobalt-and-white tiles flow seamlessly from the floor to the walls, creating a striking accent. The remaining surfaces are finished in powder pink and white, which brings order to the composition and echoes the panelling in the hallway. The whole is complemented by artwork in shades of cobalt and a brick-coloured washbasin, which visually links the bathroom to the living area.
The bedroom is the most delicate room in terms of colour scheme. It was intended to be a space for tranquillity and relaxation with a book. From the outset, the owners planned to collaborate with a Kraków-based artist, who created a mural using natural plasters, harmoniously blending all the colours present in this interior. This is complemented by 4-metre-high built-in units with semi-circular cut-outs and original lighting.
Maria Kosińska-Krupa emphasises that both the design and the execution went exceptionally smoothly. The clients placed their full trust in her, which allowed the concept to be brought to fruition without compromise. The result is a flat that fully reflects the original vision – colourful, thoughtful and refined in every detail.
design: Maria Kosińska-Krupa – Huta Wnętrz
photography: Sylwia Rzenno – Fotografia Przestrzeni
Read also: Flat | Interiors | Kraków | Makeover | Furniture | whiteMAD on Instagram
