Located in one of São Paulo’s most traditional neighborhoods, this 500m² apartment underwent a renovation to reflect a new chapter in the lives of its residents. With their children grown and living elsewhere, the couple felt the need to update their home and redefine their everyday experience. To lead this transformation, they invited architects Felipe Kilaris Gallani and Victoria Lacerda Chaves, the duo behind KG Studio.
The homeowners had clear priorities: to expand and fully integrate the apartment’s social areas, redesign the layout for comfortably hosting friends and family, and create functional spaces for remote work. The concept needed to balance well-being and practicality, guided by timeless aesthetics and enduring materials.
The original walls separating the living, TV, and dining rooms were removed. In the new open-plan layout, natural light flows freely through the space, streaming in generously from large doors that open onto the balcony — offering views of lush treetops and the urban skyline beyond.
To reinforce the sense of physical and visual continuity, a palette of natural materials was carefully chosen. Wooden flooring extends throughout both social and private areas, while the walls and ceiling in the entry hall, gallery, and powder room are clad in oak slats. In the living room, this material continues with a smooth finish that subtly conceals the air-conditioning vents. A white ceiling enhances the soft diffusion of natural light.
This neutral foundation supports a curated selection of furniture that reflects the couple’s appreciation for original design. In the living area, standout pieces include the sculptural Julep curved sofa by Jonas Wagell for Tacchini, Lady armchairs by Marco Zanuso for Cassina, the Yoruba Rose table lamp by Dagmar Mombach from Ingo Maurer’s studio, and a Serge Mouille floor lamp. A work by Vik Muniz adds a finishing touch to the art curation. Some pieces from the family’s existing collection were restored with new fabrics and finishes, adding sentimental value to the updated space.
The entry hall was designed as an intimate, almost theatrical space and features a wall sculpture by Artur Lescher, one of Brazil’s leading contemporary artists. From there, the gallery connects to the main social areas. A slightly lower ceiling and indirect lighting create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Wood wraps all surfaces, and a framed niche holds a marble console — the perfect landing spot for keys and personal items.
The dining room was strategically placed near the kitchen and breakfast area, accessed through concealed doors within the wooden wall panels. A custom metal shelving unit spans the main wall, displaying the couple’s collected objects along the sides, while a central console grounds the composition. Indirect lighting creates a cozy setting for gatherings and dinners. The large table, which seats up to 14 people, is illuminated by two Meshmatics pendants by Rick Tegelaar for Moooi. On the opposite wall, another metal console offers functional support during special occasions.
At the far end of the dining area is the TV room, which also serves as a study and workspace. A metal bookshelf showcases personal items and artwork, while a marble fireplace stands out against the wooden panel backdrop, harmonizing with the stone details found in the furniture.
On the balcony, metal planters highlight the lush greenery and strengthen the visual connection with the surrounding trees — bringing the outdoors in.
The linear integration of spaces allows for seamless visual connection and interaction among residents, no matter where they are in the apartment. This fluidity was designed to encourage both social interaction and quiet moments of retreat.
In the office, custom woodwork envelops the entire space. The slatted wooden ceiling, metal shelving, and walls are finished with silk straw wallpaper by Nani Chinellato. Soft-toned furniture adds warmth and layered textures that enhance the sense of comfort.
This architectural and interior design project was envisioned as a natural extension of its residents’ lifestyle: elegant, functional, and emotionally resonant. The thoughtful selection of materials, paired with clean-lined millwork and ambient lighting, offers a sensory and cohesive experience — reflecting a new and meaningful phase in the family’s journey.
Project: SE Apartment
Location: São Paulo, Brazil
Design year: 2021
Completion year: 2024
Area: 500m²
Architecture and Interior Design: KG Studio
Lighting: Lumini
Air Conditioning: Polo Norte
Photography: Miti Sameshima
Text / Communication: Matheus Pereira
Main suppliers: RB Pisos (Hardwood Flooring), Pantanal (Marblework), Emporium Cortinas (Curtains and Upholstery), Nani Chinellato (Wallcoverings and Fabrics), Cassina (Furniture), Tacchini (Furniture), Ingo Maurer (Furniture), Poliform (Furniture), Herman Miller (Furniture), Minotti (Furniture), Moooi, Astep (Furniture), Artefacto (Furniture), Chaise Design (Furniture), Serge Mouille (Lighting)