On April 3, 2025 , during the gala of the 3rd edition of the SAW Interior of the Year competition, organized by the Association of Interior Architects, we met the winners who set new standards in space design. In the category of private interiors, the second place was won by Adam Wiercinski from the wiercinski-studio studio in Poznań for the design of his own apartment, called "Author's Apartment." This interior, which delighted the jury with its uniqueness, consistency and functionality, became a real gem of the competition. In this article we will take a closer look at this project, analyzing its elements and suggesting how you can be inspired by it when arranging your own home or apartment. Get ready for a comprehensive guide to industrial design in a modern way!
Second Prize, private interior category - Author's apartment - the centerpiece of the living room is a gray sofa with a simple, modernist design
© wiercinski-studio | Illustrations courtesy of the contest organizers.
The Author's Apartment: behind the scenes of the project and the jury's verdict
Adam Wiercinski's project was appreciated by the jury consisting of: Agnieszka Stefanska (chairwoman), Aleksander Jankowski, Grzegorz Goworek, Zofia Wyganowska, Przemek Olczyk, Prof. Barbara Kowalewska, Magdalena Bodis, Malwina Konopacka, Jacek Poremba and Tomasz Górnicki. The jurors were looking for spaces that combine uniqueness, consistency of creation and a practical approach to arrangement - values that the Author's Apartment fulfills one hundred percent.
As juror Aleksander Jankowski emphasized:
He combines the space of a century-old tenement with industrial elements, but does so in a formula that is authentically authorial. The consistently developed design language is based on steel profiles, which can be seen in the multifunctional partition walls, furniture build-outs and even free-standing furniture - including the sofa in the living room. The character of the arrangement was defined by as many as 40 individually designed objects of various scales, made by local craftsmen. The result of the apartment renovation is a space that is exquisitely balanced. Unique, yet free from exaggeration. Formally expressive, but above all functional.
Second Prize, private interior category - The author's apartment combines austerity with coziness.
© wiercinski-studio | Illustrations courtesy of the competition organizers.
Interior analysis: industrial roughness in harmony with coziness
The Author's apartment is a space that combines the austerity of industrial style with the warmth of a homey atmosphere.
Living room with character
The focal point of the living room is a gray sofa with a simple modernist design, which harmonizes with the industrial background. In front of the sofa is a minimalist coffee table with a black frame and marble top. Graphics and paintings in simple frames hang on the walls, which bring an artistic touch without overwhelming the interior. Large windows with light linen curtains let in natural light, which emphasizes the warmth of the herringbone wooden floor. The interior is kept in a subdued palette of tones - grays, whites and warm browns of wood dominate, broken by black accents of steel frames and subtle beiges of textiles, which creates a harmonious and balanced atmosphere.
Dining area
In the dining area, the attention is drawn to a solid wooden table with a black steel frame, surrounded by benches in a minimalist style. On either side of the table are benches in a similar style - also made of wood and metal, which creates a cohesive whole. Above the table hangs a decorative lamp with geometric accents, which adds a modern touch to the interior. The kitchen in the background has a modern, minimalist look. The countertops are wooden, which continues the theme of natural materials, and the lower cabinets have stainless steel fronts, which adds a bit of rawness and professionalism to the interior, typical of industrial-inspired kitchens. The upper cabinets are replaced by an open shelf with a mirrored background, which optically enlarges the space and reflects light. The wall in this area, above the kitchen countertop, is decorated with black ceramic tiles, which contrasts with the bright walls and creates a cohesive industrial atmosphere.
Second Prize, private interior category - in the dining area, the attention is drawn to a solid wooden table with a black steel frame, surrounded by benches in a minimalist style.
© wiercinski-studio | Illustrations provided courtesy of the competition organizers.
Decorative elements and furniture
Throughout the apartment, steel sections are visible, serving both a structural and decorative function. In the living room, for example, a steel frame separates the lounge space from the rest of the apartment, and in the dining room, steel accents appear in the design of the furniture.
Storage and functionality
The living room features a mid-century modern-style wooden dresser that combines aesthetics with practicality. Open shelves above the dresser display a collection of books and decorations, while providing additional storage space.
Second Prize, private interior category - The living room features a wooden chest of drawers in mid-century modern style.
© wiercinski-studio | Illustrations provided courtesy of the competition organizers
Artistic details
In one part of the apartment, a large painting hangs on the wall, and next to it is a bold, colorful accent - a red neon sign that contrasts with the neutral color palette of the interior. This is an example of how a single element can add character and modernity to a space.
Second Prize, private interior category - Author's apartment.
© wiercinski-studio | Illustrations provided courtesy of the contest organizers.
Key to success: what makes the Author's Apartment unique?
Adam Wiercinski's design stands out thanks to several key aspects:
- Stylistic consistency: the industrial style is consistently present in every element - from the steel profiles to the furniture and accessories.
- Author's approach: 40 individually designed objects, made by local craftsmen, give the interior a unique character.
- Balance between austerity and coziness: raw materials such as steel and ceramics are juxtaposed with warm wood, textiles and natural light.
- Functionality: open spaces, multifunctional furniture and ergonomic layouts make the apartment not only beautiful, but also practical.
Second Prize, private interior category - view of the wooden bedside table in the bedroom.
© wiercinski-studio | Illustrations provided courtesy of the contest organizers.
How to be inspired by the Author's Apartment in your home?
Are you planning to renovate your apartment, put the finishing touches on your new home or redecorate? Here are some tips on how to bring elements of the Author's Apartment into your own space:
- Opt for industrial accents: use steel profiles as decorative elements - they can act as shelves, partitions or frames for furniture.
- Choose natural materials: herringbone wooden flooring, linen curtains and ceramic accessories are timeless choices that will add warmth to the interior.
- Expose personal touches: an open shelf with books, artwork and plants is a way to give the space an individual touch.
- Combine styles: juxtapose industrial elements with mid-century modern style furniture - a combination that never goes out of style.
- Take care of the light: large windows and well-chosen lighting (such as geometric lamps) will emphasize the character of the interior and make it more cozy.
Trends 2025: industrial design in a modern way
The author's apartment is in line with the 2025 interior design trends, which focus on individualism, natural materials and functionality. The industrial style, evident in the steel accents and raw finishes, is balanced by warm accessories such as wood and textiles. This is a perfect example of how to create a space that is both modern and timeless.
Second Prize, private interior category - Author's apartment.
© wiercinski-studio | Illustrations provided courtesy of the contest organizers.
Industrial elegance within your reach
Adam Wiercinski's apartment is proof that industrial style can be warm, functional and full of personality. If you dream of an interior that combines rawness with coziness, this project is the perfect inspiration. Whether you're building a house, renovating an apartment or planning a small makeover, elements such as steel moldings, natural materials and authentic accessories can transform your space. Thanks to projects like the Author's Apartment, we see that Polish interior design has a lot to offer - both in terms of aesthetics and practical solutions.
