With the challenge of transforming a compact 24 m² space into a cozy apartment for hosting friends, the architectural firm Pro.a Arquitetos – led by partners Adriana Weichsler, Daniella Martini, and Viviane Saraiva – took on this project, which aimed to bring transparency, functionality, and personality to living in a reduced space in downtown São Paulo.
The first intervention by the architects was to remove the wall that divided the bedroom and living room, opting for a material with a dual function: one that would continue to separate the spaces but with more translucency. "We chose a custom-made panel (marine plywood) that warmed the environment. We also used a frosted corrugated polycarbonate that lets light in while providing privacy for anyone in the living room," explains architect Daniella Martini. Another idea the architects had for this divider was to round the meeting point of the panel to allow for smoother circulation between the spaces (bedroom/living room, bathroom, and kitchen).
In terms of finishes, to warm up the existing cold flooring, the wooden divider serves that purpose, while the texture on all the walls helps to meet this challenge – the pops of color came from the furniture and objects.
The textures were used with a unified color scheme, varying only on the bathroom walls and the wet area of the kitchen – in front of the countertop, the architects specified the same tile (Decortiles Color Mind Cor Brut) to maintain consistency, which contributed to a sense of spaciousness and visual comfort.
In the living room, the traditional TV rack was replaced by two benches, one designed as a support for the TV and the other as a support for the dining table, with two additional chairs. On the side of the sofa, the Girafa Bench from Marcenaria Baraúna serves as a side table but can also expand the seating area to accommodate friends when needed.
In the bedroom, the double bed under the window allowed for the creation of a larger wardrobe, with three spacious sliding doors. Made of nautical fabric, the doors provide texture, lightness, ventilation, and, most importantly, keep potential clutter out of sight.
The track lighting with adjustable spotlights allows the resident to direct the light wherever desired, while the LED under the upper kitchen cabinet enhances visibility and makes cooking easier.
Technical Details
Architecture and Interiors: Pro.a Arquitetos (@proaarquitetos)
Team: Adriana Weichsler, Daniella Martini, and Viviane Saraiva
Year: 2021
Location: Vila Buarque, São Paulo – Brazil
Area: 24m²
Photos: Felco
