In a Kyiv skyscraper overlooking the Dnipro river, stands Mazanka Apartment, a testament to ancient construction techniques. Derived from the Ukrainian term for a small village house made of wood, clay, and reeds, Mazanka is a dialogue between architects and the past. It represents a stride towards the originality of modern Ukrainian design and culture.
A Vision of Harmony: Client and Architect Collaboration
The client, a young woman who shares the studio’s vision of home as a sanctuary, entrusted Makhno Studio with her aspiration for eco-friendly housing. She envisioned a blend of natural materials and contemporary technologies that accentuate the space’s uniqueness. The studio embraced this vision, aiming not only to meet the client’s needs but also to forge a personal connection with the design.
Integrating Functionality and Aesthetics
The design process prioritized creating an open, yet functionally zoned space tailored to the owner’s daily activities, from yoga and dancing to cooking. The kitchen, living room, and balcony merge seamlessly, delineated by distinct textures and materials. Ribbed cabinets and a granite tabletop island add rhythm to the kitchen space, complemented by jug lamps that add a playful touch.
Artistry in Living: Sculptural Elements
The living area transcends functionality to become an art installation. A cube, adorned with plaster mimicking ancient clay hut surfaces, dominates the space. The walls, coated with a special clay solution, boast intricate patterns formed during the drying process. Lighting, a focal point in the apartment, showcases Makhno Studio’s craftsmanship, with each piece meticulously designed to enhance the ambiance.
Embracing Tradition with Modernity
Traditional crafts find new life within the apartment’s contemporary context. Handmade vine lamps and ceramic fixtures pay homage to Ukrainian heritage while embracing modern sensibilities. The bedroom, seamlessly integrated with the bathroom, exudes continuity in color and texture, creating a cohesive living environment.
Conclusion: A Testament to Ukrainian Contemporary Style
For Anastasia, the apartment’s owner, Mazanka represents a retreat into nature amidst the urban landscape. Its clay “cave” evokes a sense of wonder, bridging the past with the present. As she reflects on her experience, she envisions Ukrainian contemporary style captivating more hearts, ushering in a new era of design appreciation.
Mazanka Apartment stands not just as a dwelling but as a testament to the enduring allure of traditional craftsmanship and the innovative spirit of modern design.
