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Reimagining a 1980s Gem in Slovenia
Nestled high above Ljubljana, Slovenia, the Onda Apartment showcases a breathtaking renovation that blends art and functionality. With a humble 731 square feet to work with, the design team at alto design studio approached the task not as a scrapping of its past but as an exciting rediscovery of its original spirit. This apartment, once the familiar domain of muted tones and heavy wood doors typical of the 1980s, has been reborn to express its owner’s vibrant aesthetic as a celebrated visual artist.
The Art of Transformation: Merging Old with New
The journey began when the client, now an artist with an eye for innovation, recognized that her abode weighed heavily with history. It retained the closed-off structure common to its era, which necessitated a vision to liberate the space through light and openness. This transformation was about more than just aesthetics; it was a philosophy of merging the past with modern sensibilities. By removing non-essential walls and doors, natural light was invited into every corner, transforming the home from a somewhat gloomy refuge into a sunlit gallery of creativity.
Strategic Design Choices on a Budget
While budgetary constraints often dictate the parameters of design, they can also unlock unexpected opportunities for creativity. Designers made strategic decisions regarding what to keep and what to reinvent. For instance, original oak parquet flooring, despite its age, was preserved and restored, lending continuity and warmth to the space. In contrast, the kitchen was entirely reconceived with elegant marble slabs from Marmor Hotavlje, embodying both a sense of craftsmanship and daring playfulness.
The Playful Heart of the Home: Kitchen and Living Areas
Where the kitchen once felt like a relic, it now stands as a monumental focal point. A black-and-white checkerboard floor juxtaposed against peach-toned cabinets and a bold cherry-red faucet brings a vivacious charm to the room. The contrast in materials is a key theme throughout the apartment: tactile woods and warm tones collide with industrial chic plastics, showing a fine balance between the organic and the avant-garde.
Bringing Life to Functionality: Textures and Colors
It’s in the details that the design really flourishes. A boldly striped storage wall doubles as a graphic statement, disrupting the clinical feel of typical storage solutions with energy and flair. Soft curtains filter daylight, while pink-painted pipes playfully traverse walls, transforming mundane features into elements of cheerful design. These choices promote an atmosphere that elicits joy and encourages creativity, akin to a curated gallery.
A Living Canvas: The Artistic Living Space
At the center of the living area is the iconic Superonda sofa from the 1960s, which can be reconfigured in various ways to suit the mood—much like the artistic endeavor itself. The space serves largely as a canvas that reflects the homeowner’s journey and aesthetic philosophy. With artworks deftly showcased on the walls and sculptures occupying significant spaces, the residence captures the essence of what it means to dwell in an artful home.
Conclusion: A Reflection on Personal Spaces
The transformation of the Onda Apartment inspires those looking to embrace their creative selves while revamping older spaces. The key takeaway? History and personality can coexist with modern design, creating homes that are as inviting as they are artistically stimulating.
If you're considering your own project, let the spirit of the Onda Apartment serve as a guide. Infuse your personal touch and values into your space, and you could discover a hidden masterpiece waiting to be born.
For more design inspiration and tips on how to transform your living space, check out articles on home improvement and design strategies!
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