When the architect Jan Sikora visited the interior of the old soap factory in Sopot for the first time, he saw a neglected and illogically organized space. He realized that renovating and converting this space into a residential apartment would exceed the price of purchasing an entirely new investment. Together with the owner, they decided to create a unique, delightful place.
The rich history of Sopot seaside resort provides inspiration for Jan Sikora, therefore he decided to implement elements of the marine style in his design. His idea was to combine contemporary chic and traditional elegance.
The interior design was created in cooperation with the conservator of monuments. Replacement of the woodwork was conducted after consultations with a specialist. Plenty of elements (for example, new windows) were designed especially for the needs of this unique apartment. The architect emphasized that it was a fantastic experience to take care of a historic building and restore its splendor.
Jan Sikora also appreciates smooth cooperation with investors. He was impressed by the meeting with the Investor, the famous restaurateur who can boast not only impressive professional achievements but also exceptional aesthetic sensitivity. The investor's main wish was to create a family atmosphere in the living room. The heart of the living room is a huge table where the whole family and guests can gather and spend time together. Jan Sikora highlights that this is quite an unusual request, considering the arrangement of modern apartments. According to modern trends, large lounge sofas are more common in the center of the living room. The mentioned table was brought from a popular local restaurant. It quickly became a favorite meeting place for household members and friends of the house.
The investor's uncommon idea of organizing the living room space inspired the architect to plan a spacious kitchen that refers to a cupboard. Elegant kitchen furniture, made by the Italian company Cucine Lube, refers to the classics but also contains elements of a modern style. Outstanding details: stone tiles, carving of the fronts, or milling of the top testify to the quality of this interior. Cutting black granite to resemble a traditional tile was not an easy task. The success of a designer is to bring every initial idea to an end (even if the implementation of the idea was initially very troublesome). Jan Sikora emphasizes that a return to ornamentation is important. We should cultivate a rich ornamental tradition, contrary to mass production and unified trends.
The unusual floors are also important details in the apartment in Sopot. Boards of three different widths were bought from the sawmill and placed on the floor. Wood was able to work, dry out and stratify freely, reminding the natural seaside landscape. The enchanting mosaic in the bathing lounge is made of tiles from the Winckelmans manufacture, where they have been produced for generations. The inspiration for its creation was an Art Nouveau casket that Jan Sikora bought at a flea market. The interior of the bathroom refers to the Sopot elegance, which is emphasized by the used colors and materials. Richly decorated washbasins and free-standing bathtub are other interesting elements. The space is completed by fresco painted by Jan Sikora. It presents a view of the Sopot pier from the 1920s. Surprisingly, the picture is still unfinished. This provides a good excuse for Jan Sikora to visit the apartment and paint a few lines. Colorful stained-glass window decorating the corridor space brings visitors' attention. The inspiration for its creation was a towel, brought by household members from exotic holidays in the Bahamas. The bedroom also fits into the fusion style of the entire apartment. As the designer explains, a style that mixes various influences. The walls are decorated with a mirror in the shape of a telephone box and favorite paintings. An antique sewing machine - a self-restored gift from a daughter - was placed in the place of honor. At the end of successful cooperation also the Architect gave a unique gift. At the end of successful cooperation also the Architect gave a unique personal gift - a picture painted by himself.
Team:
Architects: SIKORA > INTERIORS
Photographer: Tom Kurek
