Most Moscow apartments we encounter today lean toward a refined, minimalist aesthetic—clean lines, understated luxury and a contemporary Scandinavian feel. This charming 85-square-meter flat, however, takes a different route. Set on the second floor of a building originally constructed in 1914, the Kalanchevskaya Apartment embraces its historic structure rather than hiding it. When Buro5 began work here, the interior was in serious disrepair and the ceiling was dangerously close to collapse. The renovation turned those challenges into the apartment’s greatest assets by removing the old false ceiling and revealing the original wooden beams, as well as the brick walls that form the characterful backdrop in nearly every room.
After the refurbishment, the apartment reads as a thoughtful blend of old and new. The designers leaned into a light, contemporary Scandinavian palette—lots of white, natural wood accents and generous daylight—while allowing original elements to remain the visual anchors. The main living space is open plan: living, dining and a library wall flow together visually, and a compact L-shaped kitchen is discreetly tucked behind one wall. This layout keeps the plan feeling airy and cohesive while still creating distinct functional zones.
The sleeping and bathing areas are slightly removed from the open living zone, giving those rooms a quieter, more private feel. Above the bedroom and bathroom, mezzanine levels make practical use of the high ceilings; one mezzanine functions as pantry and storage, creating tidy, concealed utility space without interrupting the aesthetic flow. Throughout the apartment, clever storage and thoughtful planning let every square meter work harder while keeping the interiors uncluttered and visually light.
One of the most striking features is the consistent use of whitewashed brick walls. By painting the brick in soft white tones, the renovation preserves texture and history while keeping the rooms bright and contemporary. The exposed wooden beams above add depth and a sense of provenance, while wooden floors, shelving and a modest fireplace introduce warmth and contrast against the pale backdrop. Simple wall sconces and well-placed pendant lighting maintain a restrained, cohesive look that supports both comfort and visual clarity.
The compact kitchen is deliberately minimal: white cabinetry, wooden countertops and open shelving space above for pantry items keep the footprint small but efficient. A skylight in the bathroom brings daylight down into what might otherwise be a dim zone, and wood accents there continue the warm, natural thread that runs throughout the apartment. Every material choice—painted brick, timber, soft textiles and simple lighting—supports the overall concept: restore and reveal the building’s history while layering a calm, contemporary interior on top.
This renovation is a strong example of how to combine conservation and contemporary living: respect the original architectural elements, reveal them where possible, and balance them with a modern, light-filled interior. For anyone drawn to white walls, painted brick texture and Scandinavian-inspired simplicity, the Kalanchevskaya Apartment offers practical ideas and elegant restraint. Photography credit: Mikhail Loskutov.
