- Interior
Polish design studio Anke Design Studio realised a beautiful, unique space combining tranquillity, elegance and wellness in Kraków. Natural colours and materials are celebrated thanks to the earthy palette. Modest and sober, but warm in character, IKI CASA promises a fascinating experience for everyone who enters.
Before we take you inside this eye-catching project, it is time to tell you a little more about the designer behind this design gem in Poland. Anke Design is a studio based in Kraków that was founded by interior designer Anna Gawlik. She developed her own design language that is calm and refocused on nature. Consequently, her projects always exude serenity and calm thanks to her signature use of a neutral and soft palette of colours and materials. For as long as she can remember, interior design has been her passion. Even as a child, she was constantly rearranging her room. Space and her relationship to people has always been important to her. Yet she first decided to study literature. Only halfway through that course did she decide to study interior architecture as well. "Summarising the decade of my design career, I feel that my thoughts have calmed down and the vision has become clearer. I have learnt to eliminate," we hear. Thus, she has returned to nature, trying to create homes that are true sanctuaries. In this, you can recognise the serene and soft aesthetic she managed to develop. 
Anke Design Studio is pleased to announce the completion of its latest project called IKI CASA Urban Retreat. This fascinating space embodies the principles of modesty and conscious design, combining modern monastic influences with minimalism. She seamlessly combines minimalist aesthetics with natural elements, resulting in a captivating and imperfect yet raw space. Staying true to the principle "less is better", she adopts a minimalist approach that embraces simplicity and functionality. Carefully chosen architectural elements emphasise clean lines, open spaces and a harmonious flow between different areas. Each design choice has been made with great care, ensuring that each element serves a purpose and contributes to the overall aesthetic. The design concept revolves around the idea of embracing imperfections and celebrating the raw beauty of natural materials. The design studio uses a combination of textures and materials, such as exposed steel structural elements, natural stone and raw natural plaster, to create a tactile and visually appealing environment. In addition, the use of monochrome and natural tones accentuates the minimalist and mature aesthetic, resulting in a serene and cohesive atmosphere. The play of light and shadows enhances the overall atmosphere and adds depth and intrigue to the space. 
Modern monastic influences are combined with minimalism
The IKI CASA Urban Retreat is testament to the studio's ability to combine tradition with contemporary design. In short, a space that is both timeless and fascinating. As a result, the spa, inspired by the wabi-sabi philosophy, enjoys a minimalist and warmly inviting atmosphere, offering guests an unparalleled haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. Its chosen Japanese aesthetic embraces the beauty of imperfection and the transient nature of life. Building on this ancient wisdom, the resort has undergone a remarkable transformation, creating a refined ambience where simplicity, natural elements and a deep sense of tranquillity blend harmoniously. The spa's interior design features clean lines, uncluttered spaces and a minimalist colour palette, allowing guests to relax and escape the chaos of the outside world. In doing so, Gawlik chose soft earth tones, soothing beige hues, accents of raw steel and subtle textures of local, polished linen create a serene atmosphere that promotes a deep sense of relaxation. The essence of wabi-sabi embraces and celebrates the beauty of imperfection and the organic elements of nature.
You can read more in the spring edition of Real Living magazine.
Photography by ONI Studio
Text by Elke Aerts