by Furnishly | Jan 27, 2023 | Design Inspiration
This dwelling has seen a lot of history unfold in the center of Kyiv since 1909. Following the bombing and fire in 1941, the building underwent a major reconstruction in 1950. This individual apartment redesign began just a month before the pandemic hit in 2020 and was completed in 2022 amidst war. Designed by Oksana Dolgopiatova, the apartment has a view of the National Academic Franco Theater on one side and the statue of Independence Square on the other. Inside, the apartment is a sophisticated sanctuary with striking molded ceilings. Neoclassical motifs add elegance and flair. An open-plan layout and glass walls give the living space light and airy feel.
The living space is a light-filled, open layout. During the reconstruction of the previously bombed apartment, a plethora of reinforcing beams and screeds were discovered. These structural additions determined layout decisions and influenced solutions for ceiling and wall casings.
The facade of this building, and of those that surround it in the historical center of Kyiv, displays embossed friezes and ornamental motifs. These motifs inspired circular-shaped panel molding across the living room ceiling, which is dramatized under black paintwork. Two black coffee tables and a matching couch take the dark accent to the floor.
The plush black sofa is centered in front of a color-matched doorway to achieve a symmetrical balance. A pale second sofa and matching lounge chair counterbalance the dark effect. See more inspiration for a black couch living room.
A light throw breaks up the black sofa upholstery. Coffee table books brighten the black coffee table, along with a vase of colorful foliage.
One wall of the living room is panel molded to achieve an elegant neoclassical aesthetic. Large paintings lean against the wall paneling, illuminated under modern wall sconces.
Herringbone wood flooring and wooden baseboards add warmth to the interior decor palette.
A glass partition wall lightly divides the living room from a home office. Its black framework features the prevalent circle motif that decorates the ceiling, historical building facade, and authentic balcony railing.
Natural light is shared through the floor-to-ceiling glazed partition. Two lounge chairs are situated out in front of the glass, where they allow the line of sight to pass between them.
A patterned sofa is situated in the entryway to the home office, creating an interesting focal point.
Modern wall sconces illuminate the office couch area, creating a comfortable reading spot. Panel molded walls and a black ceiling continue the aesthetic of the lounge to achieve one cohesive aesthetic.
Inside the modern home office, the desk is situated in front of the window to capitalize on natural daylight. A freestanding shelving unit displays an uplifting array of indoor plants.
Built-in cupboards hide away a multitude of office supplies and household items.
Abstract artwork brings color and movement to the scheme.
Back out in the main living space, a black oval dining table is paired with rattan chairs to create rich contrast. A large dining room chandelier descends from the ceiling in high-contrast black and white finishes.
Behind the dining area, a black kitchen installation is elevated with luxe gold accents. A smooth white marble backsplash adds pattern and high-end appeal.
Kitchen wall cabinets are highlighted under a lustrous gold finish that wonderfully reflects light from an adjacent window.
A path of white marble lines the edge of the L-shaped kitchen design with a hardwearing, easy-clean surface.
The durable white marble floor treatment is repeated in the home entryway. A bank of made-to-measure wardrobes provides hallway storage. An upholstered bench provides a comfortable place for putting on shoes.
Black-stained wood darkly encases the doorway into the living room, creating a ceremonious entry.
The staircase to the mezzanine bedroom is fitted with a circle motif balustrade. A tower of display shelves offers a pleasant focal point by the base tread.
Perimeter LEDs drop a subtle glow onto attractively panel-molded walls. A small lounge area and workspace tuck against the opposite wall.
The master bedroom is dominated by a heavily paneled headboard wall. Two unique and colorful bedside table lamps compete for attention in front of the statement wall.
A decorative vase brings a delicate flower arrangement to a modern bedside unit.
Indoor plants soak up the sunlight on a deep window sill.
Atmospheric mood lighting accentuates the circle motif in the bedroom wall paneling.
Tonal brown blankets and throws create a cozy, layered look on the bed.
Lightweight curtains diffuse the morning sunlight.
In the bathroom, white marble flooring and wall cladding build an upmarket aesthetic. A double sink bathroom vanity threads a rich walnut element through the pale room.
Twin bathroom mirrors are flanked by matching wall sconces.
Black fixtures boldly punctuate the pale bathroom wall tiles.
A ceramic vase houses a whimsical floral display.
The shower enclosure is set into the wall to achieve a streamlined layout.
In the second bathroom design, black marble tiles create a striking look around the bathtub.
The cloakroom is small but special. A unique pedestal sink is spotlighted under a brightly illuminated bathroom mirror. Mosaic tiles fashion a detailed backdrop.
Floor plan.
Recommended Reading: Grey Based Neoclassical Interior Design With Muted & Metallic Accents
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by Furnishly | Dec 16, 2022 | Design Inspiration, Style
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Name: Mariia, Bogdan, along with Joser the cat, and Cooper the dog
Design professional names: Dubrovska Studio / Natalie Dubrovska
Location: Kyiv, Ukraine
Size: 538 square feet
Type of Home: Studio Apartment
Years Lived In: 2 years, owned
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Bogdan, who works for a consultancy and audit company, and his wife Mariia, a former ballerina who now coaches barre and stretching, own this small Kyiv apartment located in a house built in 1966. Bogdan says it’s a “classic ‘stalinka’ — a colloquial name for apartment buildings constructed in the USSR from the late 1930s to the mid-’60s.” Previously owned by Bodgan’s family (he even lived here during school), the space was very different looking, and has an interesting past. “I know that long before this apartment was owned by a musician couple, who used to invite their friends, play piano, and have a lot of fun,” wrote Bogdan. “I believe this atmosphere stayed in the walls and is still very positive and welcoming.”
Bogdan and Mariia worked with designer Natalie Dubrovsk, owner of Dubrovska Studio, to turn this small apartment into a minimal and calm home, which was the original plan, anyway. “But after dismantling, we unexpectedly found a stucco decoration above the plasterboard ceiling, as well as a beautiful red brick on the walls,” explains Natalie. “Without much consideration, we decided to change the whole project towards a more natural and raw-looking space. We decided not just to fill the space but to show all the heritage of the last century. The main goal was to evoke senses of calmness and harmony by creating a warm, textured, intimate space with dim, cozy lighting, and the scent of cedarwood.”
The kitchen cabinet’s facade was made of un-lacquered copper that will age naturally, adding even more texture to the space after time. The bathroom was divided from the rest of the studio apartment by glass partitions that add separation but not heaviness. Beautiful wooden furniture like the Fritz Hansen table and Fredericia chairs complement the stunning herringbone floors. The piano was purchased by Bogdan and Mariia from a vintage market in Berlin, and it adds tons of personality while complementing the modern shelving, both contrasting with the brick wall. And artwork by Ukrainian artists was “meticulously selected for the space to make the look complete.”
Though Mariia and Bogdan were living in Berlin for awhile after the war started, they are back in Kyiv, even working on a new project with Natalie, who is based in London and continues to run her practice no matter what. Photographer Yevhenii Avramenko is in Kyiv, still doing interior photography in Kyiv and western Ukraine. And Nadia, the fantastic PR person I’ve worked with on this Ukrainian house tour (as well as the previous one) is also in Kyiv, learning how to work effectively in between the electricity going in and out. Nadia has said that folks looking for ways to continue to support Ukrainians can consider the volunteering foundation Eyes on Ukraine. “They collect money internationally, buy all the necessities in the Netherlands, and supply for their partners in Ukraine. They are really helpful and 100% trustworthy,” she explains.
Apartment Therapy Survey:
Homeowners Mariia and Bogdan’s Style: We like to keep things simple but also focus on high quality and details.
Homeowners Mariia and Bogdan’s Inspiration: Apartments seen in Germany, France, and Scandinavian countries. Particular inspiration also by the Birds Nest, home of a Swiss film director living now in Kyiv as well.
Designer Natalie Dubrovska‘s Inspiration: Aiming to bring mindfulness to interior design, we always focus on the personal needs of our client. But not only. We also think about what we can do for a space itself. This project, Cedarwood, is a bright example. Initially, the interior was planned to be minimalistic and calm. The owner had been already living in this apartment and his personal request was “to bring a sense of freedom and fresh air.”
After dismantling a plasterboard ceiling and walls we unexpectedly found around 20cm of extra space, as well as stucco decoration and a beautiful red brick. Our client was excited about the discovery, and so were we, so we decided to follow the principles of essentialism: clean up, restore, and save. The result is quite inspiring, as you can see it now. Having common values with our client helped us not only meet his needs but also save the architectural heritage of ’60s (Stalinka) from the merciless design of 2000s. Couldn’t wish for more!
Homeowners Mariia and Bogdan’s Favorite Element: Actually the whole place is our favourite. Everything is selected with care. We enjoy our dining table a lot. There’s always enough room for everything cooked or delivered. Our library has favourite books and always something to discover.
The piano has a separate story and of course we love it as well. We started lessons to get better but certainly we need much more practice. But in the end it’s all the small details that make this apartment one whole. And we love how those details match with each other.
Designer Natalie Dubrovska’s Favorite Element: Kitchen and dining area with dim light and lots of different natural materials in furniture. I aimed to plant the feeling of grounding in this small space, and to fill it with scents of burning candles, good wine, and cedarwood. For me, all these nice things whisper about inner peace and fulfillment when the world is going crazy on the outside.
Designer Natalie Dubrovska‘s Biggest Challenge: We worked on the layout for a very long time. The main goal was to create the most compact option for placing all the necessary household items. I wanted to not clutter up the common area, but to make it as spacious as possible. We thought for a long time how to harmoniously fit the storage amenities, how to get the most impact on the space without creating complex structures.
Homeowners Mariia and Bogdan’s Proudest DIY: My proudest design ideas are the rounded wall corners and the availability of a projector and a screen that can be rolled out just in front of the library.
Homeowners Mariia and Bogdan’s Biggest Indulgence: I think it was the combination of our dining table and the chairs. I had to think about it three times.
Is there something unique about your home or the way you use it? Mariia and Bogdan – It’s unique to be able to take a hot bath and exchange thoughts and ideas with your wife, who is just next to you in the bedroom. In summer we also like to get the chairs out to the open balcony and enjoy the afternoon sun. The apartment is even better when the sunset color fills the room. During this time we enjoy making tea (or choosing wine).
What’s your absolute best home secret or decorating advice? Designer Natalie Dubrovska – In order to create an ideal space, you don’t need just to fill it with objects, but show its features. Never forget about the context you have: location, construction elements, architecture, window view — every detail is important and can inspire for something special.
We always recommend to check out the flea markets in your city: you can find real treasures there. Uniting the new and the old under one roof always gives a fulfilling outcome.
Thanks Mariia, Bogdan, and Natalie!
by Furnishly | Dec 15, 2022 | Design Inspiration
Mureli, an archaic Ukrainian word meaning apricots, became the name of this residential project near Kyiv. Construction was completed in the middle of summer when murelis are sweet. The interior design has the ambience of a warm July morning, and soft curves like a ripe apricot. Created by the architectural team at Makhno Studio, this 561-square-metre family home has a distinctive contemporary Ukrainian style. Many of the creative product designs come from Serhii Makhno’s workshop. 90% of the furniture and materials in the home are Ukrainian. The bathrooms are bespoke spaces with custom basins and adventurous wall treatments. The bedrooms are peaceful, and the home entryway is out of this world.
The living room has a laconic decor scheme that conjures a sense of peace and relaxation. The light decor palette, a tactile materials palette, and smooth curving perimeters create a soft summertime feel. A sectional sofa pulls around in an L-shaped formation to fashion a conversational setting by the fireplace. The fireplace is a simple, modern design, underlined by a long wall-mounted hearth.
At the centre of the living room, large and extraordinary living room pendant lights by Makhno Studio make a fabulous sculptural statement. Underneath the eye-catching copper Makivka lamps, a small coffee table displays gently curving sides. The table’s rounded silhouette complements the rounded edges of the room.
A modern black and white wingback chair completes the minimalist lounge furniture layout. The floor is clear of area rugs to maintain the uncomplicated, fuss-free aesthetic.
The indoor terrace features a floating chimney breast with a rounded profile. Cut logs are stacked nearby, which gives the room a warm and cosy touch. Sculptural living room wall decor is mounted in pride of place above the firebox. This piece is from the ceramic workshop of Makhno Studio.
The living room wall decor piece is due to appear in a new collection from the brand. A couple of comfortable armchairs pull up to the modern fireplace. A round coffee table is positioned to hold drinks and snacks.
A smaller round coffee table is made of wicker, which introduces an element of natural texture into the living room. A contemporary lounge chair with a low back allows glorious garden views to shine through unobstructed.
In the entry hall, a spiral staircase sweeps up to a mezzanine landing. Ukrainian craftsmen succeeded in forming a challenging handrail design from bent wood. A cluster of five Khmara lamps falls over the home entryway.
A modern entryway bench complements the beautiful pendant lights with a colour-matched and curvaceous form.
Towering walls give the home entryway a grand appeal to make a bold first impression. Sunlight pours in via double-banked windows.
A panel of 600 Tetrapods fashion a deeply textured feature wall.
The stucco around the staircase is perfectly imperfect.
Each Khmara lamp is strung at a different height, each textured white shade depicts an individual organic form.
The enormous dining room pendant light stretches almost the full length of the wooden table.
Transparent sliding doors lead to the kitchen. The doors are almost airtight to prevent overpowering kitchen aromas from escaping around the home.
Perimeter cabinetry is arranged in an L-shaped layout around four monumental cubes.
The porcelain stoneware cubes recreate the rough texture of natural stone but with a functional finish.
In the bedroom, a live edge wood headboard design gives the space a warm rustic appeal.
In this space, a 3D tile feature wall climbs behind the headboard.
The female homeowner requested her favourite colour be dominant in her bedroom, dressing room, and bathroom design. Pink accents give the spaces a soft, feminine aura. These elegant LED glass pendant lamps are handmade MAKIVKA ICE lamps by Makhno.
The curved walls in Mureli House created a challenge. Many joins were required to achieve the perfect shape. Shadow seams were made on the floors and ceilings. Plasterboard was precisely cut according to the architect’s pattern. Finally, bespoke cabinetry was crafted to perfectly skim the walls’ radius.
Pink glaze tints each area.
The pink fluted glass shower screen displays the perfect colour gradient.
A closet system holds robes.
The pink wall treatment is Makhno Studio’s Flapjack 3D wall cladding.
This blue farmhouse sink design is reminiscent of Makhno Studio’s Kvitka copper pendant lamp.
All the bathrooms in the Mureli project have original Makhno basins.
Before the final basin or bespoke piece of furniture is provided, each piece is developed as a trial version. The trial piece passes approval by the designer only when it corresponds exactly with the original visualisations.
Whilst custom basins are currently only designed and produced for customer projects, a collection of inspired designs will be released for individual sales in the near future.
On the floor plan, we can see where the sliding glass doors separate the kitchen from the large formal dining room and the neighbouring lounge area. We can also see the scale of the indoor terrace room, which stretches across the back of the kitchen and living room.
Recommended Reading: Remodelled Apartments Under 40 Sqm Fresh From Ukraine (With Floor Plans)
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by Furnishly | Oct 24, 2022 | Design Inspiration
Completing the design project implementation in early Autumn 2022, Bezmirno architectural studio reinvented a space of 106 square meters in the Tetris Hall complex in Kyiv, Ukraine. The primary aim of the project was to develop an elegant interior with a cozy ambiance. This was achieved by implementing a warm, neutral color palette and a combination of natural materials. Only minor changes were made to the layout of the home, which involved the inclusion of a small, convenient dressing room off the master bedroom. In its entirety, the home includes two bedrooms, plus two dressing rooms, one shower room, one bathroom, and an open plan living space with a spacious feel.
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- Photographer: Andrii Shurpenkov
Upon entering this stylish apartment in Kyiv, we’re met with a comfortable open plan living space with a warm and welcoming appeal. The layout is spacious and practical, with a dining table and kitchen area situated behind an L-shaped couch.
A wooden sofa table overlaps the edge of the couch. The stylish living room table lamp is a black Atollo lamp.
Several small stacks of coffee table books provide neat adornment on top of a white marble coffee table. One is laid open to display inspiring design.
The marble coffee table creates a light-reflective core at the center of the sitting area. Opposite the sofa, a long, slimline media console unit underlines the TV and a wall-mounted storage unit. Much of the cabinetry and wall paneling in the apartment is bespoke to the project.
The modular sofa arrangement includes a side table in its makeup, which provides a handy spot to set down drinks close to hand. There is also room in the base of the table to tidy away magazines and remote controls.
Brown scatter cushions and a matching brown throw add moments of rich contrast onto the pale sofa upholstery.
Over in the dining area, a long rectangular table runs almost the full length of the kitchen. A simple glass vase filled with flowers creates a pretty dining table centerpiece under the bright glow of a linear suspension light.
A stylish living room lounge chair adds a contrasting chocolate accent to the pale living room decor scheme. The rich chair upholstery complements the dark parquet flooring that peeps from the edges of a custom-made Belgian rug.
Two different floor treatments are applied to create zoning. Large format porcelain floor tiles define a clear walkway from the main living space. A wooden ceiling treatment above the walkway provides added spatial definition. A guest bathroom is accessed just off the hallway.
Dipped just out of plain sight behind the living room furniture, perforated wooden panels hide away the radiators. Elsewhere in the apartment, there is underfloor heating. Ducted air conditioner units are tucked away in the two bathrooms and dressing rooms.
Black track lights provide a flexible lighting solution across the living room ceiling and hallway. Accent lamps facilitate a more cozy ambiance to suit different scenarios.
The hallway is clad with wooden wall panels to create a perfectly smooth aesthetic with a warm appearance. The master bedroom is located at the end of the hallway. Neighboring doors lead to dressing rooms, bathrooms, and a second bedroom.
The home entryway displays the same smooth wood-paneled aesthetic. Porcelain tiles lay down a hard-wearing floor.
Inside the master bedroom, a soothing gray decor scheme promotes rest and relaxation. Heavy gray drapes frame the window. Beside the gray upholstered bed, a round bedside table is illuminated under a low-hanging mini pendant light.
Fitted wardrobes spread a pale gray colorway across one whole wall.
Opposite the end of the bed, a floating desk design adds a visually warming wooden element to the gray room scheme. A slender black floor lamp provides task lighting over the home workspace, which also doubles as a dressing table. A TV is mounted above the desk area, in a prime viewing position for the bed.
A spacious walk in wardrobe/dressing room is fitted with clothing rails, garment shelves, and floating chests of drawers on two sides. A wall of mirrored panels further increases the sense of space and light inside the closet.
The second dressing room contains a laundry area. The washing machine and tumble dryer are concealed behind closed doors. Upper shelves provide a convenient storage area for detergent and fabric softener.
Inside the bathroom, wood-slatted panels create a continuous run of deep texture around the small space. An illuminated bathroom mirror is set into a bank of mirrored wall cabinets.
LED strip lights send out an atmospheric glow above the cabinet and shed task lighting onto the vanity countertop.
A small bathtub fits perfectly into the compact bathroom space.
Inside the second bedroom, a black and wood bedside unit darkly contrasts a beige upholstered bed and headboard. The stylish bedside table lamp is the Flos Snoopy Lamp.
There is a dressing table set up by the window to take advantage of natural light.
A round vanity chair pulls up at the chic modern dressing table.
A small floor lamp provides reading light over the pillows.
The shower room is compact. A luxe decor scheme of gray marble and rich wood tone builds a high-end look.
A cylindrical pedestal sink unit is complemented by a round bathroom mirror.
Floor plan.
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by Furnishly | Feb 14, 2022 | Design Inspiration
Inspired by the homeowner’s love for modern art, this luxurious apartment interior in Kyiv was shaped as a unique, private art gallery. Visualised by IQOSA Architect, the space is designed to ensure that every art object looks completely organic in its position. Decor materials and interior design solutions make smooth interaction with the art, whilst also building a home that is unique and eye-catching in its own right. Luxe white marble carves out stunning feature walls, a gorgeous stone dining island and an enviable ensuite bathroom. Furniture is modern and high-end. Wood flooring is fabulously on-trend with a bold geometric motif, whilst luxurious rugs overlay intricate woven trims.
A cover of flat white paint serves as the perfect gallery base for the home of these art connoisseurs. Areas of natural wood tone gently warm the cool and airy aesthetic. Brighter colour comes in the form of duck-egg accent cushions on the sofa, and in matching lounge accent chairs.
The modular sofa design draws a two-sided seating arrangement around the luxurious living room. One side faces into a nesting coffee table set and pair of lounge chairs to create a conversational setting. The opposite side of the sofa is situated to take in the city centre views of Kyiv.
A floating tv stand is mounted onto fabulous marble TV wall decor. The marble panels scoop a fluted feature that beautifully catches natural light from the living room windows.
A commanding modern sculpture fills the corner of the lounge area, where it overlooks the couch. At the centre of the room, a luxurious living room rug sets a woven trim against a stunning wooden geometric floor treatment.
Square coffee tables stamp golden lustre into the core of the light decor scheme. Round coffee tables overlay punchy black additions.
The dining table stands on a textured marble support.
The textured marble table frame attractively contrasts with a smooth edged tabletop.
Grey upholstered dining chairs form gently curved silhouettes alongside the harsher lines of the kitchen installation, creating a shapely balance.
A statement dining room chandelier makes a sculptural addition above the eating area.
A full-length mirror encases a structural column, which visually increases the sense of open space in the room and reflects natural light.
The table centrepiece is an artistically sculpted glass vase and fruit bowl set with a luxe golden shimmer.
A wall of bronze kitchen units subtly shade the back of the room.
Dual aspect, floor-to-ceiling windows flood the entire living space with daylight.
Open kitchen shelving spans a lightbox backsplash.
The hallway of the home is wrapped in the visual warmth of natural wood grain, which makes a textural mount for wall art. Matching interior doors are hidden within the panels, and built-in storage cabinets are camouflaged along one whole wall.
A unique marble bench furnishes the atmospheric hallway, where LED light strips shine soft mood lighting.
Directional spotlights highlight works of art.
The focussed lighting scheme and muted acoustics of the wood-lined hallway evoke a quiet art gallery feel.
The second lounge area stands secluded from the main open plan living area, creating a snug space. A magical lighting installation sets a glamorous mood.
The bedroom is very generously proportioned with an open plan ensuite bathroom design.
A dark grey bedroom rug is perfectly shade-matched with the upholstered platform bed.
Bronze panels and striking natural stone line a distinctive headboard feature wall. Unique bedroom pendant lights descend as a duo over a bedside unit.
A modern vanity table is situated by the bedroom window to benefit from the influx of light.
A plush grey vanity chair coordinates with the luxury bedroom rug.
The bedside units present different designs and silhouettes to build interest in the bedroom layout.
A large glass table lamp provides reading light.
The luxury bedroom suite also boasts a walk-in wardrobe, which is custom-fitted with full-height closets.
A grey upholstered bench provides comfortable seating at the centre of the stylish space.
The ensuite bathroom design is a clean cocoon of white marble slabs.
A freestanding bathtub takes the spotlight in centre stage of a raised platform floor.
Fluted glass doors seal off the shower area and the WC.
Vertical towel bars thread darkly contrasting accents down the white bathroom walls.
A freestanding bath tap stands near the edge of the bathroom platform, making it convenient to set the bath running whilst on route to choose the day’s outfit from the walk-in closet.
At the back of the ensuite bathroom, a double sink vanity unit floats lighting across the front of two full-length vanity mirrors.
Recessed spotlights distribute even illumination from the white marble ceiling.
Backlit mirrors provide focussed task lighting at the bathroom vanity area.
Inside the water closet, the streamlined white marble decor scheme continues seamlessly. A wall hung toilet leaves the limited floor space clear.
Next door to the WC, the shower enclosure is spacious and bright. A ceiling-mounted rainfall showerhead makes a deluxe addition.
On the initial floor plan, we see how the second lounge/snug was originally intended as a twin bedroom. We can also see that guest bathroom facilities are located just off the home entryway, and can fully observe the generous scale of the master ensuite.
Recommended Reading: Art Lover’s Red Blue and Green Home Decor Scheme
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