Atelier Prague

Atelier Prague
Architect: Jan Bek
Completion:02 / 2018


Introduction
After previous collaboration, we were approached by the client AVI to develop a design for a studio where the client could work in a pleasant environment, receive visitors, and occasionally spend the night. The interior was to have not only a representative function but also a living space equipped with everything necessary for residential purposes. In our first meetings, we defined the suppliers of furnishings and furniture. We decided, whenever possible, to work with Czech manufacturers and designers, of whom both the client and I are great admirers and somewhat fans.
The space we had available is two stories. It is accessible directly from the courtyard of the old Prague buildings. As it was not a new building but a conversion, the space featured beautiful brick vaulted arches with steel beams, interestingly designed beams on the upper floor, and many other elements that already defined the direction the design would take.

Client's Words
"The whole story took place long ago, in the times of the last century, before the First Republic. This modest space served for housing horses, and people of that time were very close to them. No one knew that, in a few years, horse power would be quickly replaced by an alternative of the combustion engine. Technological progress and the sequence of events gave this place a real pause for several decades. Things return to the very beginning constantly and always in cycles, and perhaps fate also wished that this magical place (the city courtyard) transformed again into a space where the life of today flows. The goal and wish were to once again bring soul and life to this place. With great respect, we placed great emphasis on the reconstruction of the original architectural elements.
From the very beginning, I knew that this would be the right place where I would very much like to work and spend time here. The demand for reconstruction was clear: preserve as many original elements as possible, with a strong emphasis on suppliers (this was not easy, as there are never enough quality craftsmen). I then asked myself how to furnish this space once it was structurally finished? I did not hesitate for a minute, and the idea was born. It is hard not to notice that in recent years we have been experiencing a certain form of renaissance among traditional Czech manufacturers (furniture, glassmakers, Czech design, etc.). I liked the idea of continuing this tradition and thereby supporting these manufacturers. Choosing suppliers for the interior specifically from traditional Czech manufacturers was not straightforward. After careful consideration, we and the architect decided on these selected Czech suppliers. With minor exceptions, they are purely Czech companies, and the authors of the artistic works are exclusively from the hands of young Czech artists.
We humbly accept your evaluation of whether we succeeded in bringing new life to this original space."


Interior Division - Concept
As I mentioned, this is a two-story studio. The total area is around 86 m². On the ground floor, you will find a more representative area consisting of a lounge seating for meetings with clients, a large dining table with six chairs, and a hidden kitchenette behind folding doors. Additionally, this floor features a bathroom with a shower and toilet. All furniture, both built-in and free-standing, is made of walnut wood. Most of the furniture comes from the Czech company Ton, and the sofa is from the company Polstrin. The library, cabinets, bathroom furniture, and kitchen cabinet are atypical designs created by us. The lighting that emphasizes the lounge and dining table is from the Czech company Bomma.
The upper floor is more private. Here you will find the client's office and bedroom. The design and realization of the office furniture is handled by the company Situs, again in walnut wood.

Materials
On the ground floor, the most dominant element is the concrete screed with color pigmentation in blue and green. The flooring in this area consists of a combination of gray and decorated tiles, delineating the main area of the lounge and dining table. The wood in both floors is strictly walnut. The ceiling on the ground floor is a vaulted brick. The upper floor is painted in lighter colors. For the flooring here, we used wooden oak flooring, which adds coziness and warmth to the space.

Conclusion
Every project is something new for us, but here I see the main shift in colorfulness. We usually stick to muted or monochromatic colors. The client has Greek origins, so we took the liberty to experiment a bit with colors. We are pleased with the result and hope you will like it too. It is worth noting that the selection of stylish accessories and artwork is up to the client, and therefore I consider it important to mention them as a co-author. Our collaboration with him was very enjoyable, and we thank them.
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Barvy
Ivana
08.03.18 08:06
Interiér s atmosférou
08.03.18 03:05
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