Stairway to (Minimalist) Heaven
It is a sign of great architecture when structural elements become the defining feature of an interior space, creating a unique atmosphere more effectively than interior decoration can on its own. A good example is this penthouse apartment on Vondelstraat in Amsterdam, designed by zU-Studio.
This 220 square metre apartment is dominated by a vast open plan living dining kitchen space on the top floor, its high ceiling and pitched roof highlighted by imposing French oak beams. Such a dramatic space calls for a dramatic entrance, and the architects obliged by creating an amphitheatre style staircase in an atrium at the centre of the apartment, lit by an enormous skylight above. This cleverly turns an otherwise uninteresting functional space into a sociable hub, a real heart of the home. At the top of the stairs is a black steel bookcase which reaches up to the ceiling, with integrated steps on either side. The entire edifice is reminiscent of an altar, a focal point which draws your attention upwards. The structure stretches around the edge of the atrium, branching out into a low bench / coffee table / barrier along the sides and rejoining as a bookshelf at the end.
The rest of the interior space is restrained and calming, with white walls and wood flooring throughout. The living space is dominated by a modular sofa arranged as an enormous bed cum conversation pit, whilst an outsized preparation / dining island with fluted marble details form the focus of the kitchen. The master bedroom downstairs is a haven of tranquility. We especially like the minimalist bathroom with its book-matched marble walls and glass-fronted fireplace as well as the solid wood block which forms a fittingly sculptural entrance. However, at the end, all eyes are back on the central atrium and its remarkable staircase, a truly ingenious design which defines the space beautifully.
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Product Inspiration
We love the generously proportioned modular sofa in this apartment. For something similar try the Savina Sofa from Viccarbe. We also like the simple, sculptural quality of the barstool around the kitchen island. Achieve a similar effect with the Dom Barstool from Coedition. For a dramatic bookcase that makes a design statement, go for the Robox Bookshelf from Casamania.
For such a minimalist space keep the lighting simple and subdued. The Infinito Suspension Light from Davide Groppi, for example, is a minimalist masterpiece. The Spring Floor Light from Diesel Living is equally discrete, but also with an industrial touch. For a restrained table light with a sculptural feel try the Le Deux Table Light from 101 Copenhagen.
Keep the accessories sleek and sculptural with, for example, the Frame Wall Mirror from Stellar Works and the Orpli Vase from Atelier Polyhedre. If you like the book-matched marble wall in the bathroom of the penthouse apartment you can imitate it with the Marble Tiles Wallpaper from NLXL.
