The new house near Warsaw is an example of a deliberate continuation of earlier design choices. Moving from a 60-square-metre flat to a 200-square-metre space, the owners once again invited Hanna Pietras and Anna Petrova to collaborate on the project. Rather than changing the style, they opted to build on tried-and-tested solutions, adapting them to a larger scale and new conditions.
The starting point for creating this interior was not a catalogue of inspirations, but experience. The owners had moved from a 60-square-metre flat, which, although small, had been designed to perfection. Well thought-out, functional, and timeless. The move was driven by a need for more space, not a desire to change the style. That is why it was a natural step to invite the same architect to collaborate once again.
The functional layout of the kitchen was carried over almost exactly as it was – simply because it worked. Instead of starting with inspiration from Pinterest, the starting point was the actual experience of using the space. What worked stayed. What hadn’t been there before could finally be introduced, says architect Hanna Pietras.
The new house is therefore not a ‘new story’, but a development of earlier choices. The scale, light and proportions change. The core remains the same.
Light shapes
The greatest transformation concerns the ground floor, particularly the kitchen and living area. The former, enclosed kitchen has given way to an open space, enlarged and illuminated by floor-to-ceiling windows. It is a decision that completely changes the way the house functions. The kitchen ceases to be a back room and becomes the centre of life. The island organises the flow, whilst the light – streaming in through the wide front – lends the space a sense of softness.
Alongside functionality, there is another important aspect – the relationship with the surroundings. Large glazed areas ‘draw’ the garden inside. Greenery is no longer just a view from the window, but a real part of the interior. The light changes throughout the day, defines the space and sets the mood – adds Hanna Pietras.
The high-ceilinged living room, open right up to the ridge, enhances this experience. The shelves running right up to the ceiling are not merely decorative – they meet a practical need whilst fulfilling a dream for which there was previously no space. This interior does not rely on flashy effects. Its strength lies in its precision.
Colour as a tool
Although neutral walls and wood form the base, colour plays an organising role here. Mustard-coloured kitchen units warm the space without dominating it. Green appears in the doors and details, creating subtle links with the stone by the fireplace. Red is a detail that enlivens the composition. The most striking accent is the blue LEXAVALA lamp above the island. Simple, linear, bold. It is the element that ties the whole together and gives it character. The kitchen features an arched recess with a sideboard and wallpaper depicting mischievous monkeys – a pattern originally designed for the Milanese patisserie Dulciora. It is an element that breaks with the modern aesthetic and adds a personal touch to the interior.
The same wallpaper appears in the bathroom, creating aesthetic continuity. It is not about literal consistency, but about atmosphere – ensuring the interior has its own identity rather than being a collection of random attractions. The design is also not afraid of ambiguity. It is not pretentious; it does not try to be ‘perfect’. This is what makes it authentic. The interior of this house is not a showcase of possibilities. It is an example of design that stems from relationships, trust and an understanding of needs.
design: Hanna Pietras, Anna Petrova
photographs: Hanna Połczyńska/Kroniki
styling: Anna Hynek
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