Interior BVM31
BVM31 Apartment is situated in a modernist-style building constructed in 1948, designed by architect Ludvig Tomori. The exterior is characterized by a monumental facade with columns, while the interior features a robust massive structural composition.
By utilizing the massive structural system of the building both as a constraint and as a potential the contemporary intervention in this project is aligned with the architectural heritage of the building. The spatial organization has been completely transformed through the diagonal sequencing of spaces, creating a new dynamic shift in environments. In contrast to the monumentality and visual weight of the building itself, the apartment is atmospherically defined by the entrance and flow of light through the rooms, in part facilitated by the three-sided orientation of the apartment.
Light plays a crucial role in creating the atmosphere within this space. The reflection and diffusion of light are achieved through the use of white surfaces, strategically positioned linear spotlights, and tactically placed mirrors that reflect portions of the framed ambiental views throughout the depth of the apartment, allowing light to permeate further through the rooms. Contrasts between white and light grey surfaces, mirrors and warm wooden floors further enrich the space, providing it with a sophisticated and harmonious appearance.
The key architectural feature of the apartment – a spatial diagonal – is designed as a series of frames along the main corridor, consecutively revealing functional ambiences of the dining area, living room, and kitchen. This gradual process of unveiling space creates a narrative that unfolds through almost cinematic sequences along the corridor, culminating in a horizontal sliding window spanning the entire length of the living room. The play of horizontal and vertical plans, shaped through furniture arrangements, materials, lighting, and spatial geometry, unfolds through a series of sequences where each element plays its role, contributing to the overall aesthetic harmony and functionality of the apartment.
The intertwining of the kitchen and dining spaces is further emphasized by a continuous line of storage elements, seamlessly transitioning from a sideboard in the dining area to kitchen cabinets, all made from the same material. This design approach creates a sense of unity, as the space, guided by the diagonal, gradually opens towards the living room, connecting the rooms through individual elements accentuated by a light grey colour. Each element in this visual system operates independently, while their unified materialization forms a pleasant
whole.
Just as the micro-ambiences unfold in sequences throughout the space, the storage
elements also layer along the length of the apartment, creating a gradation – from
fragmented shelves to kitchen masses. Freestanding elements further contribute to the unique character of the space.
The night zone is treated as a luxurious microspace, defined by horizontal strokes and low-centered elements. The walk-in wardrobe becomes a crucial segment of the horizontal stroke of the room, initiating from the desk, thus creating an organic flow between the room's functions. While the ambience of the night zone predominantly reflects the bright atmosphere of the living room and kitchen, wooden surfaces are used as carriers of warm tones. Present on the floor and individual pieces of furniture, natural wooden materials also appear within the interior of the wardrobe structure, introducing the material as an element of surprise into the bright interior.
Differing ceiling heights purposefully assigned to each room add extra value to the spatial experience, highlighting the three-dimensionality of the architectural gestures in this apartment. In addition to the effect achieved by varying heights, the concept of minimalistic clarity in the space is further realized by introducing an integrated system of ceiling-mounted air conditioning.Initially defined by the monumentality of its immediate context, this apartment is carefully composed through thoughtful design gestures to meet the demands of contemporary living, resulting in an airy space that radiates tranquillity and warmth.