The Rina Lovko Design Studio was tasked with transforming a Kyiv apartment into a gallerist’s residence, emphasizing simplicity and functionality for both living and showcasing art. The owner, who only occasionally resides in the apartment, requested an appropriate office space, a comfortable living area, a functional kitchen, a dressing area, and a separate bath in the master bedroom.
The apartment features an entrance, a combined living room kitchen, and a separate bedroom with an open wardrobe section. A sliding bedroom door optimizes space usage, while the bathroom opens to both the hallway and the bedroom. To maintain a higher ceiling, the team left it concrete, displaying exposed wiring and adjusting the positioning of the air conditioner and ventilation system.
Wood takes center stage in the design, with naturally aged wood textures used for furniture, including custom-made pieces like stools, tables, and bookshelves. The owner and the art pieces he studies are the focal points of the relatively small apartment, leading to a rational use of space without overcomplicating the design. The windows provide views of the historical center streets, and the wooden floor planks, originating from granary walls, showcase varying widths and unique textures, processed using the brushing technique.
The warm color of the wood is achieved through a combination of light and grey paint tones. The apartment follows a cold grey color scheme, but its atmosphere can be easily changed by incorporating new attention spots, accessories, and works of art by different authors. Presently, three works by Ukrainian artists adorn the space. The walls are hand-painted with sand-containing paint for texture, while the bathroom features micro cement coating for a seamless effect.
The same micro cement covers a wall cabinet with a hidden mirror, and the sink made of artificial stone complements the walls. The shower base is flush with the floor, with contrasting matt black shower mixers and faucets adding a touch of sophistication. Overall, the design strikes a balance between art appreciation, functionality, and a flexible atmosphere.