Apartment Renovation in São Paulo, Brazil

Exterior interplay

The apartment is part of a residence complex with contemporary infrastructural amenities and leisure areas that focus on well-being and environmental preservation.

Design Approach

The client brief asked for a complete renovation of the interior space, integrating a cozy environment as well as an open-plan space with various artefacts. The most disruptive architectural gesture was the incorporation of the balcony with the living room, creating a large open space that promotes social interactions as well as a feeling of modernity and harmony.

Material Palette & Lighting

One of the main objectives was to maximize the natural lighting entering the apartment. As a result, a large opening is created in the kitchen, providing ample sunlight during the day, while indirect lighting and spotlights are used to make the space more functional and welcoming. The materials selection complements the existing wood paneling. More specifically, the joinery at the living room is made of reclaimed wood, while mdf in graphite tones is used for the kitchen cupboards. The lights and neutral fabrics bring out a lightness to the overall environment. Finally, a series of decorative artefacts and paintings are displayed throughout the space in minimal black and white frames to avoid any visual clutter.

Exterior Design

One of the biggest challenges was hiding the air conditioning situated on the balcony, without interfering with the existing hydraulics. A wooden joinery made of slatted doors that functions as a cupboard is positioned behind the sofa offering easy access to the air conditioning system, while maintaining visual harmony.