- Interior
The KMA Apartment, located in the charming district of Old Mokotów in Warsaw, is a beautiful example of how modernism can seamlessly blend with historical architecture. This 69 m² apartment, designed by Agata Melerska and Alicja Pieczykolan, exudes the atmosphere of the 1940s while combining it with contemporary elements. The renovation was completed in May 2024 and offers a perfect balance between historical heritage and modern living comfort.
The apartment is situated in a characteristic post-war residential block, typical of the Mokotów district. The sleek, simple facades and the green surroundings create a peaceful oasis, just three kilometers from the bustling city center. The original layout of the apartment was ideal: a long hallway with doors leading to the living room, kitchen, and bedroom, while the bathroom is located on the opposite side of the entrance. To create a sense of openness, a partition wall was removed, merging the kitchen and living room into a spacious whole. The original wooden parquet floor and interior woodwork were well preserved, requiring only minor adjustments, such as refreshing the original doors with their authentic handles. Custom-made terrazzo window sills were installed to replace the original wooden ones.
The designers opted for an interior where modernist influences are clearly present. Black, sleek accents such as baseboards, door frames, and even a striking headboard in the bedroom provide visual cohesion. Carefully selected furniture and lighting, both from Poland and other parts of Europe, bring a timeless elegance to the space. The walls are finished with a mineral plaster with a grainy texture, adding a subtle yet rich layering. The kitchen is a true eye-catcher: a monolithic block of reddish oiled plywood, with the countertop seamlessly transitioning into the rest of the cabinetry. Stainless steel appliances provide a modern contrast. The warm brown parquet flooring extends into the kitchen, forming a harmonious whole with the walnut veneer dining table from the 1950s and leather chairs designed by Matteo Grassi.
The combination of authentic details and contemporary comfort makes this space unique
In the living room, the iconic Maralunga sofa, designed by Vico Magistretti for Cassina, upholstered in olive green fabric, takes center stage. A vintage Moroccan rug and a marble coffee table from the 1980s complement the space, while a striking Italian lamp with a brass base and a parchment shade provides atmospheric lighting. The bedroom exudes tranquility and simplicity. A striking desk, likely from the 1920s or 30s, takes a central position and is accompanied by an openwork chrome chair designed by René Herbst. Opposite the bed hangs a minimalist shelf made of dark stained plywood, while storage is provided by sleek white and chrome cabinets. The bathroom radiates simplicity with its off-white square tiles and chrome details. A washbasin with a minimalist chrome frame, a transparent glass shower enclosure, and a natural granite floor add a timeless look. The granite tiles extend up the walls, creating a modern interpretation of classic paneling.
The KMA Apartment is a beautiful blend of past and present, where historical elements have been respectfully preserved and combined with modern functionality and aesthetics. The result is a harmonious and timeless interior that perfectly complements urban life in the heart of Warsaw.
Photography by Oni Studio
Text by Ine Simons