11MH

The two-bedroom property was purchased in its original condition, run down and outdated. The inherent attributes of the space on the other hand did not fail to impress despite the restricted ceiling height.

The flat commands a privileged corner overlooking a 19th-century Neo-Gothic church, it offers an efficient and well- proportioned layout with a south-east/south-west exposure that ensures good natural light and ventilation throughout, as well as a balcony to enjoy the warm summer evenings.

Moreover, the existing trees outside the windows seemed to add a tangible connection to nature and the changing of the seasons. It was evident that given some effort, imagination and good workmanship, the flat would turn into an ideal home and office for the owners during their extended stays in the city.

The design intends to make use of the spatial qualities and to further enhance them. Accordingly, optimising daylight and drawing in the colours of the urban vegetation became the key to overcoming the drawback of a low ceiling, turning it instead into an intentional celebration of the horizontal dimension.

The restricted palette of materials strives to provide continuity and unity throughout the flat, as well as an elegant simplicity that induces a feeling of serenity. Consequently, light oak is used for doors, panelling, skirting and bespoke furniture, khaki grey for linoleum flooring and kitchen cabinets, with crisp white surfaces for walls and ceilings for better reflection of light.

While the tones and texture of wood aim to add warmth, the careful manipulation of mirrors centres the experience of dwelling on the intangible dimension of space, light and reflections.

Annual CO2 data was not provided