The main idea that guided Justyna Kolasa and Patryk Ławrynowicz of 3XEL Architekci studio when designing an apartment on a block of apartments in Łódź was to combine retro style with modernity. Also important were original furniture from the People's Republic of Poland and accents of mint green.
The original herringbone parquet floor and furniture from the People's Republic of Poland are characteristic features of the apartment
photo: Dariusz Jarząbek © 3XEL Architects
retro and contemporary
The space of the 55-square-meter apartment in Lodz is maintained in light shades of gray and white. The accent that breaks the subdued composition is the mint-colored kitchen cabinets and, black, modern table and chairs. At the request of the owners, the architects preserved the original furniture from the communist period. Retro elements were juxtaposed with furnishings from IKEA and designer items, creating an interesting and functional set. The whole is complemented by a vintage parquet floor, laid in a herringbone pattern, which has been refreshed and sliced - it perfectly matches the old furniture, and provides a perfect background for the decor of the entire apartment.
The kitchen stands out with a strip of mint green
Photo: Dariusz Jarząbek © 3XEL Architects
functional spaces
Another guideline, in addition to preserving the original furniture and parquet floors, was the request that the apartment be laid out in such a way that it would be suitable for rental. The architects designed it to host both a family and two independent people. In the center of the apartment is a common space along with the kitchen, so everyone can have access to it.
The living room is a combination of retro, IKEA and contemporary design
photo: Dariusz Jarząbek © 3XEL Architects
From the kitchen, on the other hand, you can go to the other two rooms, one of which has been arranged as a minimalist bedroom, and the other - as a living room, without unnecessary furniture and objects. Nonetheless, workspaces have been thought of in each of the rooms, so home office or remote learning will take place here in comfort.
A bedroom with an arranged workspace
photo: Dariusz Jarząbek © 3XEL Architects
modern, bright bathroom
Against the background of the whole apartment, the bathroom stands out. This space, kept in subdued, cool colors, is modern and minimalist, while black cabinets and accents add to its character. The bathroom furnishings were chosen so as not to overwhelm the interior and to create a cohesive whole with it.
modern bathroom with black accents
Photo: Dariusz Jarząbek © 3XEL Architekci
A streamlined toilet and an oval washbasin set on a countertop bring order to the space, giving it a modern feel. The shower was fully tiled in the color of the walls, and stainless steel fixtures were used to finish it off. Also eye-catching is the black trim around the shower, the color of which refers to the cabinet under the sink.
retro-style apartment
photo: Dariusz Jarząbek © 3XEL Architekci
The design brief was to create an interior with a retro vibe combined with modernity and interesting design, I think the architects have met the investors' expectations.
