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Studio Mills converts Kraków monastery flat into light-filled family home
London office Studio Mills has transformed an apartment at an old Kraków monastery into a light-filled family residence.
Studio Mills, founded by twin sisters Jayne and Kirsty Mills, used pale colours, simple furnishings and bespoke joinery to create the minimalist interior for the Polish home.
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The designers opted for Douglas fir flooring and white-washed walls to make the space feel bright and airy. They also kept the layout as open-plan as possible.
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"The client wanted a modern home you could simply turn the key and walk into," the studio told Dezeen.
"We based the design on the architecture of the apartment; glazing to both sides – plus as the penthouse, it is the highest apartment in the building, so is flooded with light."
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In the living area, a full-height library wall made from white lacquered plywood – complete with a rolling ladder – spans one wall.
Here, the designers also introduced some bold colours through furniture and decorations.
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A grey sofa contrasts with a mustard yellow arm chair and a circular green sidetable, while a monochrome rug stands out against the light-coloured wooden floor.
"We wanted to maximise the short daylight in winter so we created a palette to reflect the light as much as possible," added the designers.
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A kitchen is located at the rear of this space, separated by a small dining table that features chairs in different shades.
In the kitchen, bespoke cabinets are coloured in pale green tones – a shade that is echoed on feature walls in the lounge and dining space.
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White marble is used in both the kitchen and the bathroom to create what the designers call a "holistic environment".
There are also brass details throughout the property, including light switches, plug sockets, bathroom taps and radiators.
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Studio Mills is based in southeast London. The studio was also behind the Manhattan store for watch brand Larsson & Jennings, which features a cantilevered display counter and a bar serving typical Swedish refreshments.
Photography is by Edmund Dabney.