In 2021, FGMF embarked on a transformative project to renovate an apartment located in São Paulo’s Higienópolis neighborhood. The aim was to modernize the space through updated finishes and internal layout adjustments while preserving the distinctive qualities of the original 1960s floor plan.
Rethinking Layout and Functionality
Significant changes were made to the floor plan, notably merging the living room and kitchen areas through expansive openings controlled by sliding doors. Additionally, part of the first bedroom was integrated into the living room, creating space for an office and a sizable wine cellar within this versatile area. These alterations not only introduced new functionalities but also disrupted the original linear layout, fostering more dynamic and interconnected spaces.
Central Element: The Metal Bookshelf
A prominent feature of the renovated space is the large open metal bookshelf that spans the living room, connecting various areas such as the guest bathroom, kitchen, office, and wine cellar. This multifunctional piece serves as a platform for objects, plants, and books, housing sliding doors and accommodating equipment for entertainment purposes. Its design harmonizes with other furniture elements, adding visual interest and coherence to the overall aesthetic.
Neutral Kitchen and Private Area
The kitchen, designed with neutral tones and a central island, allows the living room, bookshelf, and wine cellar to take center stage. In the private area, two bedrooms were combined to create a spacious master suite with ample closet space and dual bathrooms. Another bedroom, designed for guests and future use, maintains a cohesive design language with the rest of the apartment.
Contemporary Finishes with Respect for Tradition
The renovation project involved replacing most finishing materials to impart a contemporary character to the spaces while preserving the building’s original elements, such as iron frames and wooden floors. Carefully selected furniture pieces, including a blend of modern, antique, and custom-designed items by the architects, further enhance the apartment’s unique charm.
By seamlessly blending modern design elements with the apartment’s historic framework, FGMF has succeeded in revitalizing the Abboud Apartment, creating a harmonious and functional living environment that celebrates both past and present.
