Luminous Minimal: A Light-Filled Transformation by Ivana Lukovic

Apartment Refurbishment Showcasing the Power of Natural Light

The inspiration for this design was drawn from the apartment's potential for natural light, thanks to its four-sided orientation. Lukovic decided to enhance and reveal this natural illumination by increasing the size of window openings and using simple, natural materials in a calm colour palette. This allowed the light to alter the habitat throughout the day, creating a dynamic and ever-changing space.

The design's unique properties lie in its ability to transform an existing space into something completely new and bespoke. The apartment, located on the third floor and roof of a building in an Athenian southern suburb, was refurbished on a limited budget. The size of window openings in all three bathrooms was increased to create a visual contact with the outdoor greenery, and the existing divisions were slightly altered to avoid excessive demolition.

The realization of this design was achieved through a combination of environmental benefits and local collaboration. The existing 150m2 space was improved rather than moving to a new one, and built-in equipment in larch wood and lacquered MDF was designed specifically for this space. This was produced in collaboration with a local carpenter, contributing to the local economy. The terrazzo that covers the multi-purpose unit in the communal space was realized in a workshop and brought to the site.

The technical specifications of the design include a transformed existing staircase that connects the two levels of the 150m2 habitat. The space itself is visually enlarged by increasing window openings in all three bathrooms and unifying outdoor and indoor floor surfaces by covering them in custom-made cement mortar. All electrical and plumbing facilities were replaced, and a heat pump system with radiators of high technical and aesthetic values was introduced for heating.

The design was created in Athens, Greece, between May and November 2021. The project faced several challenges, including the pandemic situation which resulted in delays and a lack of reliable labour force. However, through close collaboration between the client, architect, and contractor, the desired result was achieved. The design was awarded Iron in A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2022, a testament to its innovative and practical design.