Creativity—The project embraces architectural minimalism by removing ornamentation and allowing natural materials to take center stage. Traditional artwork is replaced by dried floral compositions that enhance the sculptural qualities of the interior. This unconventional approach treats natural elements as integral parts of the design. The carefully chosen color palette, furniture finishes, and textures create depth while maintaining a serene atmosphere.
Innovation— in the space comes from design solutions that elevate minimalism. A key decision was the integration of ventilation and ducted air conditioning systems, hidden within the floor screed and above non-living areas. Four types of diffusers were used: integrated with track lighting in the hallway, slot diffusers hidden in niches for the living areas and owner bedroom, plaster diffusers in the bedroom, and milled patterns in furniture panels for the bathrooms. Access panels for servicing were discreetly hidden in technical rooms or bathrooms. In the main living area, kitchen elements like the extractor hood, oven, and coffee machine were concealed behind sliding panels. A retractable faucet also contributes to the clean aesthetic. The bath area, part of the owner block, features warm walls instead of a towel radiator, preserving the visual cleanliness of the space. Horizontal lines in the hallway were minimized with MDF panels to maintain a smooth flow. The doors are "invisible," reaching the ceiling without upper frames, and the entrance door follows the same principle. Hidden cornice lights, controlled by a phone or doorbell-type button, create a discreet yet functional atmosphere. Black diffusers provide soft, even lighting, enhancing the calm ambiance.
Functionality—The design achieves both aesthetic cohesion and practicality. Natural materials were chosen for their durability and visual appeal. Keeping the original beige window frames helps integrate the interior with the exterior, maintaining a harmonious connection. In the compact space, the entryway integrates a kitchen, owner block with storage, and a small office nook. The second block includes a small bedroom, wardrobe, working area, and bathroom, efficiently arranged to optimize the available space.
Eco-Social Impact—Sustainability is central to both material choices and the lifestyle fostered by the design. All wooden furniture was designed and crafted by local artisans, supporting craftsmanship and reducing transportation emissions. Locally sourced parquet flooring strengthens the project’s commitment to the community. The ventilation system with heat recovery and dimmable lighting further enhance energy efficiency. Dried flowers replace live plants, eliminating maintenance while fitting the client’s semi-permanent living situation.
K 17
Zrobim Architects
Gold

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Nathan Watts
Creative Director
at Interstore
6
5
6
7
6

Lorcan O'Herlihy
Founder, Design Principal
at Lorcan O'Herlihy Architects [LOHA]
5
5
6
5
5.25

Simon Goff
Founder and Director
at Floor_Story
6
7
6
7
6.5

Nic Granleese
CEO and Cofounder
at BowerBird
6
6
6
5
5.75

Ting Yu
Chief Architect
at Wutopia Lab
5
6
5
5
5.25

Julio Kowalenko
Cofounder
at Atelier Caracas
6
5
7
6
6

Janne van Berlo
Founder
at Atelier van Berlo
7
5
7
5
6

Tobias Geisler
Cofounder
at VAVE Studio
5
5
6
6
5.5

Frank Lee
Founder and President
at Shanghai Fengyuzhu Culture Technology
5
6
7
6
6

Jeff Yrazabal
President
at SRG Partnership
5
5
6
5
5.25

Akanksha Deo Sharma
Designer
at Ikea
5
7
7
6
6.25
Location
Designer
Client
Confidential
Floor area
140 ㎡
Completion
2025
Budget
250.000 $ (excl. the apartment cost)
Finishes
Finishes
Furniture
Furniture
Lighting
Lighting
Lighting
Furniture
Sanitary