In the heart of Poznan's Old Grunwald district, right next to the historic Abyssinian settlement, rises a modernist villa from the interwar years. It is an example of architecture of the era of reforms and calls for simplicity of form - geometric body, balanced proportions, lack of unnecessary decoration. The building, designed in accordance with the state building conditions of the 1930s, reflects the spirit of the time: functionality, minimalism and harmony with the environment. The condition of the building, which was purchased by the new owners, required extensive renovation and reconstruction. This task was entrusted to the LBWA studio, which prepared a comprehensive design of both architecture and interiors.
Interior of a modernist villa in Stary Grunwald, Poznań - a kitchen with an island finished with natural stone combines functionality with elegance in LBWA's design.
© LBWA
Historical context and design challenges
The modernist villa in Stare Grunwald was built at a time when architecture was subject to strict state regulations. Regulations from the 1930s imposed certain conditions for development, which influenced the minimalist character of the building. Its facade is devoid of ornamentation such as rustication or pilasters, and the body is based on harmonious proportions and geometric shapes. These types of buildings, although extremely valuable in terms of historical value, often require extensive renovations to meet modern housing standards.
The villa's new owners, having purchased the building in a state that required comprehensive renovation, set LBWA's studio an ambitious task. The designers not only had to adapt the interiors to modern functional requirements, but also to preserve the unique character of the historic architecture. Key challenges included:
- Interior layout typical of period villas: living rooms were located on the street side, while utility rooms such as the kitchen and bathrooms were located on the garden side, often with smaller windows.
- Orientation with respect to the sides of the world: the east-facing front elevation and the west-facing garden elevation required precise planning of the layout of the rooms to maximize the use of natural light.
- Protection of the historic form: any changes had to respect the original massing and architectural details, such as woodwork and historic floors.
LBWA studio managed to meet these challenges, creating a space that combines respect for the past with the convenience of modern living.
Interior of a modernist villa in Stary Grunwald, Poznań - the living area with a panoramic window opens to the garden, letting natural light into the interior
© LBWA
Architecture and interiors: harmony of tradition and modernity
The villa consists of two independent units, one of which - occupying the first and second floors with an area of 220 square meters - is the owners' private apartment. LBWA designers created a functional layout of the space that fully meets the needs of the residents, while taking into account the solar orientation and historical character of the building.
First floor and entrance area
The main entrance to the apartment is located on the north side, from where a staircase leads to the second floor. The staircase, kept in subdued colors, is decorated with a distinctive painting, which provides a strong visual accent. At the level of the second floor, the living area begins, designed with comfort and aesthetics in mind.
Kitchen: minimalism with a touch of luxury
The kitchen, located on the east side, is a space that combines functionality with sophisticated design. Its centerpiece is an island finished in natural stone, surrounded by tall cabinets in a shade of beige. Details such as brass recesses, a faucet and wall sconces allude to the original hardware used in the villa, adding cohesion to the interior. Large glass doors lead to the living area, and a small balcony on the east side is the perfect place for morning coffee in the sunrise.
Interior of a modernist villa in Stary Grunwald, Poznań - brass recesses, faucet or wall sconces, refer to the original fittings used in the villa
© LBWA
Living area: space and light
The living area was created by combining several smaller rooms, resulting in an open, airy space. A panoramic west-facing window offers a view of the garden overgrown with old-growth trees, letting in plenty of natural light. The arrangement of the living room is minimalist: light armchairs, a sofa, geometric stone blocks and symmetrical bookcases create a harmonious whole. Attention is drawn to a painting by Mark Okrasa, which provides a subtle but distinct artistic accent.
Interior of a modernist villa in Stary Grunwald, Poznan - view of the living room
© LBWA
The living area leads to the dining room, located on the garden side, and the guest room, located on the east side. The dining room is distinguished by a restored library - an original element of the villa, which has undergone restoration. Large double doors connecting the dining room and guest room reflect the original interior layout, adding authenticity to the space.
Interior of a modernist villa in Stary Grunwald, Poznan - view of the dining room with restored library
© LBWA
Night zone: privacy and elegance
The second floor is the night zone, including the master bedroom, a children's room and a utility room with laundry, adapted from a former attic. The master bedroom, facing west, offers views of the garden and is connected by an open passageway to the bathroom on the east side. On either side of the passage are the owners' independent dressing rooms.
Interior of a modernist villa in Stary Grunwald, Poznan - master bedroom
© LBWA
The master bathroom impresses with its original plank flooring and free-standing bathtub in the center. The shower and sink countertop are finished with gray limestone, and the space is decorated with graphics by Henryk Płóciennik. The children's room, full of light thanks to large windows, stands out in the bathroom with green marble in the shower and sink countertop, which contrasts with the oak elements and light gray terrazzo floor.
Interior of a modernist villa in Stary Grunwald, Poznan - the original bathroom floor preserved during the renovation highlights the villa's historic character
© LBWA
Details and materials: the art of minimalism
Carefully selected materials have been used throughout the apartment to highlight the villa's modernist character. Original elements, such as wooden window and door frames and historic floors, have been preserved and restored. New additions, including vintage furniture and custom-made elements, harmonize with the existing space. Brass details, natural stone, gray limestone and green marble create a sophisticated palette of materials that harmonizes with the warm whites and earthy beiges of the walls. Art plays a key role in interior design. Paintings and sculptures from the owners' private collection give the space a personal touch. Subtle light fixtures and harmonious color schemes enhance the cozy atmosphere, while natural light highlights the beauty of every detail.
The interior of a modernist villa in Stary Grunwald, Poznan.
© LBWA
Inspiration for architecture lovers
LBWA studio's project in Stary Grunwald is an excellent example of how to combine respect for historic architecture with the modern needs of residents. The modernist villa, thanks to careful renovation and thoughtful interior design, has become not only a functional home, but also a work of applied art. It is an inspiration for all who dream of creating a space that combines tradition, minimalism and elegance.
