Project: Neoclassical Style Apartment
Architecture: ArchObraz
Architects: Antonina Obraztsova, Oleksii Obraztsov, Kostyantyn Busargin
Location: Dnipro, Ukraine
Year: 2024
Photo Credits: Andrey Avdeenko
Located in the heart of Dnipro, this apartment occupies a space within a Neoclassical-style building constructed in the early 20th century. Unfortunately, a previous renovation in the early 21st century stripped the apartment of many of its original decorative elements, which were characteristic of the Neoclassical style. The new design, by ArchObraz, seeks to reintroduce the historical essence of the apartment, drawing upon memories and associations with past eras while offering a modern, ironic twist.
Design Concept: Merging Past and Present
ArchObraz’s design of this Neoclassical-style apartment was heavily influenced by the designer’s own childhood memories, spent in similarly styled buildings. The intent was to evoke the spirit of the past, but with a modern touch that embraces both humor and nostalgia. The space blends traditional Neoclassical elements with contemporary features, creating a unique and emotionally rich living environment for a modern Ukrainian family.
Key Features: A Walk Down Memory Lane
The design incorporates a number of distinctive elements that pay homage to the past. For instance, the long corridor is visually extended by the clever use of mirrors. The parquet flooring, once traditionally large, is now replaced with a classic “herringbone” pattern, evoking a timeless feel. Similarly, the bathroom is tiled with oversized “marble chip” tiles, a nod to the building’s history, while a seating windowsill and a curtain in the open wardrobe add practical yet whimsical touches.
Elements such as a giant ceiling rosette and school cafeteria-like chairs imbue the space with both humor and romance, making it a home that bridges eras while offering a comforting, familiar atmosphere. These design decisions create a distinctive “bouquet” of childhood memories and associations with historical design, elevating the apartment into more than just a living space, but a journey through time.
Conclusion: A Tribute to Heritage and Modern Living
ArchObraz’s design for this Neoclassical apartment beautifully restores its historical roots while providing a contemporary living space that supports the lifestyle of a small Ukrainian family. The apartment exemplifies how memories and modern elements can coexist harmoniously, creating a home that celebrates both the past and the future.
