- Interior
In the heart of the bustling city of Kiev, nestled in the historic Podil district, stands a flat that serves as a charming Piede-à-Terre for a passionate couple. Residents of a quiet suburb, they find a haven in this urban gem where they immerse themselves in Kiev's cultural life and share precious moments with their loved ones.
Podil, with its eclectic character and access to the majestic Dnipro shore, provides the perfect backdrop for this city residence. This district, steeped in history and craft, has embraced the architectural essence of Podil, where modern and restored buildings blend harmoniously and the charm of the cosmopolitan past continues to live on. Here, on the eighth attic floor, a apartment reveals an enchanting panorama of Podil's rooftops, transformed by the vision of designer Yana Molodikh. The designer felt the call of the neighbourhood and wanted to capture that cultural context in the apartments interior. With a masterful blend of classical and modernist architecture, infused with the vibrant colours of constructivism and the warmth of loft decoration, she created a harmonious symphony that reflects the soul of Podil.
Where history and modernity go hand in hand
The attic space under the roof, with its inevitable technical challenges, was turned into assets by Yana.Exposed beams and metal columns were artfully integrated into the design, giving the space character rather than forming barriers.The kitchen and living room, where the owners love to cook and welcome guests, exude a light, airy atmosphere, with carefully chosen furniture and Vitra's iconic Akari floor lamp. In the smallest room, the bedroom, Yana plays with spaciousness and lightness.The bed on a raised platform and cleverly placed cupboards behind the columns create an intimate yet open space. Even the massive beam on the ceiling is transformed into a visual light element, a clever piece of design that makes the attic room breathe. The bathroom, a tribute to constructivism, exudes an aesthetic that embraces the past and embraces the contemporary. The tiles, carefully selected and mixed, pay homage to the rich history of the neighbourhood. The colour palette throughout the apartment reflects the warm tones of earthy colours, a tribute to Yana's childhood memories. This apartment is not only a masterpiece of design; it is also steeped in the story of the couple who call it home. A couple who retired after a life in the IT industry, with a love of jazz, travel, cooking and hospitality. The project was made all the more special by the involvement of their son Vadim and daughter-in-law Lisa, owners of "Buro 150", an artisanal wooden furniture workshop. Together with designer Yana Molodykh, they created a space that not only embraces the past, but also welcomes the future. This apartment in Podil is more than an urban retreat; it is an ode to the neighbourhood's rich history, a celebration of eclectic beauty, and above all, a warm home for a couple who have lost their hearts to Kiev's charm. Photography by Yevhenii Avramenko
Design by by Yana Molodykh
Text by Elke Aerts