MINI LOFT

Studio Sadar has renovated a small apartment in a housing building from the 1970s. The starting point was the desire for a functional upgrade that respects the high-quality solutions of the original design, yet reflects a changed way of living.

The cellular layout of the apartment with smaller rooms was replaced by a loft, which combines various functions in a single space. Key qualities of the original design were highlighted and utilized, such as brightness, airiness, openness of space towards the exterior via the balcony, and separate bathroom and toilet. The latter made it possible for the bathroom to become a “blurred” part of the living space.

“The privacy of individual spaces is more relaxed due to the nature of living, which, despite the small square footage, allowed us to create a compositionally and spatially interesting loft apartment,” says Jure Sadar.

The transition areas between traditionally separated bathroom, bedroom, and living spaces are emphasized by frosted glass screens, which become the central compositional element. The design of the screens is inpired by the thin frames of translucent windows, a key feature of the architecture of nearby industrial buildings.

“With the new functional design, we wanted to upgrade the original spatial qualities – by removing partition walls to improve lighting and views into the green surroundings, which favorably affects living and visually enlarges the space.”

“Large glass surfaces allow for natural ventilation of the apartment throughout the year and natural lighting, which reduces the need for energy consumption.”

The open design is complemented by a thick wall, which integrates installations and storage cabinets.

The choice of materials, furniture, and lighting follows the original spatial idea. In the bathroom and entrance area, bright terrazzo and mirrors dominate, enlarging and connecting the spaces. The kitchen elements are also designed to be as transparent as possible, and harmoniously match in color and composition.

“An important part of the apartment’s design is the selected and designed furniture, especially the colour and material-coordinated kitchen, as well as the standard furniture – plastic nightstands, Niko Kralj’s chair, Bernardo Bernardi’s recliner, and the Eames coat rack, which create a playful and intriguing overall image,” says Urška Sadar.

Project/architecture	Studio Sadar
Program	Apartment renovation
Location	Ljubljana, Slovenia
Phase	Completed
Year completed	2022
Team	Urska Sadar, Jure Sadar
Photography	Taja Harris