Project: The Baltic Sea Family Retreat
Interior Design: Kathy Kunz Interiors
Location: Germany
Project size 90 m2
Completion date 2020
Photo Credits: Lina Gruebler
Text and photos: courtesy of Kathy Kunz Interiors
When we first viewed this seaside apartment, it was a hodge podge of dated decor – but with endless potential. Situated at the end of a beach promenade with a view out onto pine trees, the beach and the vast Baltic sea, the inspiration for the interior scheme was right on our doorstep and it was easy to get the clients – who holiday here throughout the year – excited about translating what we saw outdoors to the inside.
What was the brief?
Our goal was to create a cosy Baltic Sea family retreat with a boutique hotel flair. We left the floorplan untouched, minus one small modification in the shape of a new window (designed in a paired-back version of the classic architectural style of the area) set between the kitchen and living room, to give access to sea views.
What were the key challenges?
When we first viewed this seaside apartment, it was just begging for a revival: textured wallpaper from the 90’s, a bathroom tiled from floor to ceiling in sparkly black and white; a delapidated kitchen. However, the dated decor was the least of our issues – as this property is located 4 hours from Berlin, we couldn’t use our trusted handymen and women but had to find new contractors for all aspects – and then trust them to execute well and on time whilst mostly managing from afar. The largest issue we had was with the bathtub faucets which were mounted in very strange positions and had to be re-done. Some of the tiling work also had to be redone.
What were the solutions?
Our solution to the issues were incessant check-in calls and regular on-site visits.
