In Rio de Janeiro, the discovery of a wall of Portuguese tiles directed the design of this 36-square-metre apartment. The architects, Atelier Glushko, sought to salvage and incorporate the original ceramics, which dated back to 1955, with their decorative, historic presence chosen to become the jumping off point for the transformation of a tired, unloved property into a compact, loft-like home. 

When work started on the project, demolition unexpectedly revealed two structural columns, which saw plans for the layout of the space shift and the two columns became central to the new design. Instead of hiding them, the first column was left exposed, creating a subtle divide of the living and sleeping areas, while the second was absorbed into a bespoke burgundy unit which became a sculptural element that combines kitchen cabinetry, walk-in storage, and shelving for books and other objects. In the kitchen, the salvaged tiles form the backsplash, with other fragments used in a framed artwork that hangs on one of the walls. 

The apartment’s open floorplan meant every design element needed to prioritise both function and form. For instance, a sculptural white headboard rises to the ceiling, curving around the sleeping area’s threshold to conceal a hidden bathroom and close off this more private space. The modern design balances its materials—hard and soft, smooth and textured surfaces—found in the cement flooring that runs through the apartment and the handcrafted timber details.  Further softening the design, vintage furniture and personal artworks were chosen to complete the considered space.

Photography © Andre Mortatti