ZEN INTERIOR VINOHRADY
ZEN Interior in Prague’s Vinohrady represents an unconventional fusion of modern Japanese minimalist design with elements of parametric interior design and traditional Czech motifs. The architectural intent was to create an environment that is simple, clean, elegant, and at the same time cozy.
Inspiration by contemporary Japanese architecture
The interior incorporates elements inspired by contemporary Japanese creation, in the form of simple lines, the use of natural materials, austerity, and color unification, as well as the use of open spaces with centrally placed elements for gathering and dining.
Use of parametric design
Some parts of the interior—such as the table arrangements, the modular shelving wall, and the bookcases—were designed using computational or parametric design techniques. These elements introduce geometric and functional dynamism, variability, and adaptability to the space.
Traditional Czech elements
Traditional Czech motifs complement the austere and elegant design. In the interior, they are represented in the form of handmade decorative ceramic tiles, natural design lighting, or traditional Czech furniture. These elements give the interior a homey and pleasant feeling.
Overall, this interior is a unique example of how different design styles and traditions can be combined into a harmonious whole. The result is a space that is unique, aesthetically impressive, and at the same time practical and functional. The apartment is proof that cleanliness and austerity can be combined with a sense of coziness.
LAYOUT
The layout solution is based on the limits of the original layout of the renovated apartment. The linear orientation is used for the optimal placement of different functional operations. From the entrance to the apartment, the central corridor leads to rooms serving as a wardrobe, toilet, utility room, laundry, and bathroom. The corridor is also conceived as a storage space, ensured by extensive built-in carpentry cabinets on one side and a modifiable shelving wall on the other. The character of the entire corridor was an important motif of the whole design. A place where the inhabitants of the apartment pass very often and use it, thus becomes an extraordinary and pleasant space.
The center of the interior is the main living room of 51 m², which is conceived as a maximally open space, where the operations of the kitchen, dining room, and living room are interwoven. The natural curves of the movement of the users of this space were the inspiration for the design of rounded elements of a generous kitchen island, the main dining table, and a smaller coffee table. The triptych of these elements in the space emphasizes the freedom of movement and use of this main room. The harmonious feeling in the interior is also underscored by numerous interior plants, which practically grow throughout the apartment. From bookcases and shelves to the dining table, in the middle of which grows a large fig tree.
The main living room is followed by two residential rooms. The bedroom, where one wall was left in its original state of rough scraped plaster, which was carefully restored by restorers. And the study room, which is separated from the living area by large double sliding doors. This room can easily become an extension of the main living space. The study is prepared for adaptation to the function of a children's room and in the space of the façade bay window is complemented by a built-in sofa, which also serves as a storage space and a guest bed.
The adaptability of the use and operation of individual rooms and designed elements was key to long-term living comfort in this apartment. The apartment thus partially continues to respond to life in it and to the needs of its inhabitants.
Project: 2021
Realization: 2022
Usable area: 144 m2
Location: Vinohrady, Prague, Czech republic
Photos: Václav Novák
