Apartment Crystal
Robson Figueiredo

Retrofit rescues affectionate memories and creates vibrant space in old apartment in São Paulo

Go Up Arquitetura as Architects

The transformation of the Crystal apartment represents a unique renovation carried out in a property from the 70s. When the clients approached the Go Up Arquitetura office, they expressed the desire not only to renew the environment, but also to preserve the emotional memories linked to that space. They wanted every corner and element in the transformation to tell a story that brought back memories of their childhood.

From the beginning, the desire was for the apartment to have a unique vibe, with vibrant colors, works of art and design pieces. A careful mix of foraged, contemporary and handcrafted items resulted in a space full of personality. Architects Juliana Silva and Amanda Mori created an environment that meets the family's daily needs, providing a place for dining while transforming a common room into a music and media room.

photo_credit Robson Figueiredo
Robson Figueiredo
photo_credit Robson Figueiredo
Robson Figueiredo

Previously underused, this room only served as a passage area, it was then integrated into the main area, significantly expanding the living space which was also integrated into the balcony. Special emphasis was given to a curved central element, where they applied a mosaic of shards, rescuing the floor that was part of the client's childhood home.

The choice of two tones of caquinhos, white on the wall and pink on the balcony floor, harmonized with the blue chosen from the beginning.

photo_credit Robson Figueiredo
Robson Figueiredo
photo_credit Robson Figueiredo
Robson Figueiredo

A mix of items was made with contemporary and vintage design pieces, and design classics, such as the Paulistana chair, which shares space with retail and artisanal pieces. One of the items was a mother-of-pearl table that belonged to the client's grandfather and was restored by a specialized company. The large Ipê wooden flooring, a rarity in more contemporary apartments, was also restored. Another challenge was finding a piece of marble to complement the existing floor, as it is becoming extinct. Intense research was carried out to find a company that would supply the necessary material.

An interesting element in the project is the television, which is actually a projector. To frame the projection, they created a border on the wall, providing not only functionality but also an aesthetic touch. The integration of the balcony into the room not only brought natural light, but also allowed the creation of a bright space, controlled by blinds on the glass, ceiling and wall.

photo_credit Robson Figueiredo
Robson Figueiredo
photo_credit Robson Figueiredo
Robson Figueiredo

Lighting is a crucial highlight of the project. In addition to being controlled by strategically placed blinds, the light is reflected by a mirror opposite the dining room. This technique simultaneously intensifies and softens the light, creating an environment permeated by a pleasant luminosity.

The Cristal Project goes beyond a simple renovation; It is a celebration of affectionate memories, a harmonious fusion of elements that tell stories in a multifunctional space that meets the everyday needs of a family. The result is an environment that not only delights visually, but also resonates emotionally, fulfilling the desires and desires of those who live there.

photo_credit Robson Figueiredo
Robson Figueiredo
photo_credit Robson Figueiredo
Robson Figueiredo

Team:
Architect: Go Up Arquitetura Office – Architects Juliana Silva and Amanda Mori
Photographer: Robson Figueiredo

photo_credit Robson Figueiredo
Robson Figueiredo
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