We drew inspiration for this project from Opatija’s architecture itself and its Art Nouveau spirit, which radiates elegance and refinement. Our goal was to carry that spirit into the apartment interior, creating a natural harmony between the building’s architecture and the surrounding landscape. Every detail is designed to bring a touch of the exterior into the pristine interior and evoke the authentic beauty of this city.
The biggest challenge was the large wall with extensive glass surfaces separating the living and sleeping areas. We solved it through careful selection of curtains and wall decor, while at the entrance we adapted the original wall to visually open up the space and separate the kitchen elements from the entry area. The bronze mirrors were placed strategically to create reflective depth, further connecting and visually expanding the space.
In the kitchen and dining area, we added tall storage units to replace the missing pantry, while the elegant marble countertop and backsplash introduced a sophisticated look that blends seamlessly with the living space. The central table, made from the same material, ties the kitchen and living area together, and the bronze mirrors on the table base help maintain a sense of openness and spatial lightness.
The furniture throughout the apartment was custom-designed, and details like the curved-line chairs and the TV unit were crafted to match the overall design theme. Personalized artwork and carefully chosen decor add warmth and character, making the interior not just beautiful but genuinely homey.
One of the key elements of the design is the decorative detailing carried across the illuminated walls and ceilings, along with the wall finishing techniques. Through these elements, we brought the spirit of “old” Opatija’s architecture into a contemporary interior. Such decorative features create a sculptural impression and enhance the warmth of the home, making the space feel alive and intriguing.
This approach allowed us to experiment with colors and materials, adding the desired touch of exoticism and sophistication to every corner. Each wall was carefully complemented with decor, curtains, and soft creamy beige tones, creating a harmonious and refined ambience where the architecture and design engage in a dialogue with the space.
Together with the apartment owner, we carefully selected the furniture, with the standout piece being the blue armchair placed as the final touch, highlighting the character of the interior. Most of the purchased furniture comes from well-known Italian manufacturers, while anything unavailable as a standard product was custom-made to ensure perfect functionality and harmony.
The selected furniture is complemented by modern Italian lighting that elevates the space, bringing brightness, calm, and a soothing composition of light and neutral tones. The lighting was meticulously planned and is an essential element of any well-designed interior. Even though the building is constructed with reinforced concrete walls, we managed to position the lighting in a way that maximizes both spatial impact and functionality.
Natural light and well-designed lighting are crucial in smaller spaces, and mirrors further help visually expand the interior. Strategically placed opposite light sources, they reflect the space and enhance the sense of openness, emphasizing the elegance and harmony of every corner of the home.
