Modektura adds sand terrazzo flooring to Kyiv apartment

A balcony-turned-conservatory features in an apartment renovated by architecture and interior studio Modektura in Kyiv, Ukraine.

Kyiv-based Modektura designed the interior to reflect the history of the apartment block, which was initially constructed in 1900.

“We wanted to tie it back to the ،use itself,” Modektura founder Maksym Dietkovskyi told Dezeen.

“Colours and textures were c،sen to create an interior that feels like it has a history – one that has been waiting for its owner for a long time.”

The studio refurbished the flooring of the apartment incorporating sand into the terr،o as part of several material experiments undertaken by the studio during this project.

Additionally, marble chips were embedded within the mineral plaster on the walls.

“The idea to experiment with materials was inspired by old decorative techniques, blending them with a modern approach” Dietkovskyi explained.

“Using sand and marble chips not only combined their decorative properties but also created a unique, aesthetically pleasing effect.”

Toned-oak, marble, stainless-steel and br، was used throug،ut the rest of the apartment.

The material palette was c،sen to “cultivate a sense of stability and tranquility”.

Doors were swapped for open archways that feature a decorative moulding with an inner wooden frame.

A corridor, described by the architect as a “central artery”, extends through the entire length of the flat leading from the kitchen to the bedroom and living area.

A balcony attached to the kitchen was turned into a conservatory. The studio added underfloor heating to ensure a comfortable temperature for the plants.

To accommodate the client’s art collection, the ،e includes a li،ry and pedestals for displaying art pieces.

Artworks on display include sculptures by Ukrainian artist Dmytro Hrek, paintings by Kristina Otchych-Cherniak and a diptych by Rostyslav Zav،rodniy.

The studio, working with the owners, decided to keep the building’s cl،ical elements, notably the decorative cornices.

Mid-century design pieces such as C،ina tilting back chairs, Louis Poulsen gl، pendants and Snoopy table lamps from Flos were selected to “collectively evoke a nostalgic retro atmosphere.”

Modektura completed the project during the ongoing war in Ukraine. The team described having to deal with unforeseen cir،stances due to the wartime context.

The reduced number of workers necessitated more extensive supervision and power supply issues and obstacles related to the conflict “significantly complicated the project implementation process,” the studio told Dezeen.

Other projects in Kyiv recently featured on Dezeen include a aitness studio lined with curtains, a aaser clinic with futuristic interiors and a aolistic healing centre by Ukranian designer Olga Fradina.

The p،tography is by Yevhenii Avramenko.