This renovation of a 2,000 square foot urban loft challenges traditional arrangement by dividing the space lengthwise with a sculptural wood wall. The design substitutes a dark core for an opening in the wall’s center where a hearth of combined kitchen and dining area is anchored with a cylindrical, stainless steel range enclosure.
The curved wall creates openness and enclosure while maintaining the perception of the original concrete volume. It is a continuous storage unit that organizes the public and private functions of the loft. Glass and metal details filter natural light to the spaces on either side of the wall.
The design is inspired by the color and detail of the Kuba tribe’s dancing dresses. The fabrics’ surface appliqué of abstract shapes are interpreted as a compacted third dimension resulting in a composition of openings in the curved wall that provide functional depth. Similar to the figures on the cloth, the wood finishes have a darker color as they recede from the main plain of the wall. The openings themselves provide desk space and storage that is concealed when not in use.
Photographs: © Arch Photo, Eduard Hueber