Designers from the Hanna Pietras Architects studio have carried out a comprehensive modernization of a historic villa in Lodz. The arrangement combines modern solutions with the historical heritage of the house from the 1930s.
The historic house is located in a green neighborhood
Photo: Mood Authors
The tranquility of nature and the comfort of urban life
The250-square-meter building is located near one of the charming parks. The investors are a young couple with a child, who appreciate a location that encourages an active lifestyle, while providing quick access to urban amenities. The owners were already familiar with Hanna Pietras, as they were...neighbors.
- We regularly passed each other in the hallways, and one day they knocked on my door asking about the project. This is how our cooperation began, which turned into a successful realization, and our neighborly relations gained a new dimension," says the architect.
Beige walls provide a calm background for the eclectic decor
Photo by Mood Authors
A space full of soul
Hanna Pietras and Martyna Florkiewicz had a daunting task ahead of them. Creating a harmonious combination of modernity with the unique character of the historic villa was a real design challenge. The key aspect, therefore, was to preserve as many original interior elements as possible.
- The main idea was to preserve the spirit of the place. We decided that the wainscoting and antique parquet floors had to remain to reflect the character of the space," recalls Hanna Pietras.
We managed to preserve the original parquet floors
Photo by Mood Authors
Fortunately, thanks to her extensive experience working with older buildings, the architect did not encounter any serious obstacles during the project.
- As a result, I was able to focus on preserving the character of the building and realizing the intended vision," the designer describes.
A black and white floor with a graphic pattern enlivens the arrangement
Photo by Mood Authors
Balance between past and present
- The interior has a unique atmosphere - rich in historical details. Maintaining authenticity was the biggest challenge I encountered during the project," emphasizes the architect.
One of the biggest points of pride for the architect was the "restoration" of the historic paneling.
- This was a key element of the interior, which we had to refresh in order to integrate it into the modern vision. We managed to preserve the original details and give them a modern look that blends perfectly with the overall design," she adds.
The architect succeeded in restoring the original paneling
Photo by Mood Authors
Items with history
The home's design was also significantly influenced by furnishings the investors had transferred from their previous apartment.
- The furniture had sentimental value for them and fit perfectly into the new aesthetic. Their presence set the direction for the rest of the interior," emphasizes Hanna Pietras.
Furniture from the owners' previous apartment gave the interior a unique atmosphere
Photo: Mood Authors
Functional changes
Of course, in addition to preserving the original elements, the architects also made significant changes. For example, the kitchen, which was previously located in another room, was moved to the living area. The scope of work even included replacing the window frames, which made it possible, among other things, to enlarge the windows in the living room. Thus, the space gained light.
The kitchen was moved from a separate room to the living area
Photo: Mood Authors
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Developed by:KATARZYNA SZOSTAK
