Design-enamored pair purchased a one-bedroom flat in one of London's notable landmark structures – here's their decorative transformation.
Nestled at the heart of London lies a resplendent gem of Brutalist architecture – the Barbican Estate, specifically Gilbert House, which straddles the Barbican Lake on soaring concrete pillars. A couple, ardent admirers of this architectural marvel, recently acquired a one-bedroom apartment here. Its then-green living room and pink-upholstered bedroom walls, however, had little appeal to these design aficionados.
With a keen eye for restoring design credibility, they enlisted the services of interior designer Olga Alexeeva, of Black & Milk. The objective was to create a cozy and comfortable living space while staying true to the Barbican's rugged yet minimalist interior design aesthetic.
The renovation strategy revolved around preserving and restoring original features, complemented by a layering of warmth and comfort. "Our goal was to reclaim this apartment so that it felt authentically 'Barbican', but also to add a sense of coziness through color, texture, and a thread of luxury," explains Olga.
Structural alterations were out of the question in this Grade II-listed architectural treasure. Instead, Olga opted for subtle interventions, creatively zoning the main space with furniture to create distinct areas for relaxation, dining, and work. Furniture placement also tactfully addressed the spatial challenges inherent in these apartments. Walnut wall paneling and joinery were used to further define the apartment's space, referencing the dark, glossy walnut originally featured in the homes while offering a softer, more contemporary look.
Storage was prioritized without compromising the minimalist aesthetic. A wall of custom-made cabinetry for living room storage helps to define the space. The design palette included earthy, tonal colors, which added to the sense of warmth and calm, with shades inspired by the estate itself. Comfort was paramount during the furniture selection process, with careful consideration given to each piece, from the sofa to the armchairs.
A linen-like textured wallpaper in a soft putty shade was used throughout the apartment, not only adding depth but also addressing acoustic concerns common in apartments. The finishedresult is a sensory and relaxing space that feels like a magical retreat, reflecting Olga's intention to create an inviting, authentic, and luxurious Barbican residence.
If you're seeking inspiration for your own Brutalist makeover, consider incorporating earthy colors, minimalist furniture, and warm textures, while preserving the building's original features to achieve the perfect blend of modern comfort within the architectural context.
- The couple, passionate about Brutalist architecture, acquired a one-bedroom apartment in the Barbican Estate's Gilbert House, seeking to revamp its living room and pink-upholstered bedroom.
- To restore design credibility, they hired Olga Alexeeva, a renowned interior designer known for her work at Black & Milk.
- Olga's objective was to create a cozy and comfortable living space while preserving the Barbican's minimalist interior design aesthetic.
- The renovation strategy focused on preserving original features, layering warmth and comfort, and zoning the main space using furniture.
- Walnut wall paneling and joinery were used to define the space, referencing the dark, glossy walnut originally featured in the homes while offering a softer, contemporary look.
- Custom-made cabinetry for living room storage was prioritized to address the need for storage without compromising the minimalist aesthetic, and the design palette included earthy, tonal colors.
- To achieve the perfect blend of modern comfort within the architectural context, consider incorporating earthy colors, minimalist furniture, warm textures, and art in your Brutalist home-and-garden makeover, while preserving the building's original features.
