piratininga arquitetos highlights historical features in apartment renovation

piratininga arquitetos highlights historical features in apartment renovation
all images courtesy of piratininga arquitetos

located in the first steel constructed building in belo horizonte, brazil, piratininga arquitetos refurbished a 600sqm apartment highlighting this historical characteristic that was already inherent to the space. the project aimed to make use of the big area, a home perfectly suited for the occupancy of only two people. the architectural design proposal completely rewrites the original configuration of the apartment by setting the circulation of the space around a conceptual axis that starts at the home-office and extends into the master bedroom where the addition of two indoor gardens, one on each side, maintains the flat’s original proportions. 

the open social area has a gallery feeling thanks to the owners exhibited art collection

the main purpose of the axis is to serve as a place to organize and showcase the client’s art collection, arranging it in a gallery of steel shelving. cabinets were added to exhibit personal items, while the library, also made of steel, contains the books. the social area comprises the kitchen, living room, dining room and TV room, all part of a big open space. the pantry and toilet are also located in this area, but enclosed in panel boxes. 

the steel axis ends in the home office where it turns into a library

the apartment renovation creates new conditions for natural light and ventilation, allowing a visual connection between the windows and the different faces of the building. the decision to reveal the construction details and pipes, and to use materials such as concrete and steel is the result of wanting to reference the concept of the original building.

the glass-walled indoor garden allows space continuity and gives a sense of the outdoors

the exposed iron beams painted in white add up as a the principal element of the design 

the open kitchen plan design not only incorporates it into the social area, but allows for guest entertainment

the toilet is encapsulated in a steel panel box, being one of the few closed spaces of the social area

the bathroom has a contemporary look and feel thanks to the brilliant reflective panels 

the master suite has exposed concrete walls and two indoor gardens in each side that soothe the ambiance 

the master’s bathroom combines concrete and ceramics

floor plan

sections

project information:

location: belo horizonte, brazil
area: 600sqm
date: 2013
architecture: piratininga arquitetos
contributor: JPG.ARQ
image: jomar bragança

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edited by: juliana neira | designboom