- Project: Neoclassical Apartment
- Architect: Kvadrat Architects
- Location: Kazakhstan, Astana
- Year: 2022
- Area: 180 m2
- Photography: Gleb Kramchaninov
In the heart of Astana, Kazakhstan’s capital, Kvadrat Architects Studio has redefined a prefabricated interior into a home that reflects harmony, elegance, and identity. This 1,937-square-foot neoclassical apartment blends modern ergonomic design with timeless classical elements, offering a tailored solution to standardized developer-issued interiors.
🏙️ Reimagining the Identical
The apartment lies within a business-class residential complex, where all units are handed over with identical layouts, finishes, and furniture. The client—a mother in a family of three—sought change after experiencing déjà vu upon seeing her neighbor’s apartment, which mirrored hers down to the art on the walls.
“Our challenge was to transform sameness into self-expression,” says Kvadrat Architects. “The solution lay in moderation, materiality, and modern reinterpretation of classical design.”
🧭 From Classical to Contemporary Neoclassicism
Initially leaning toward classic decor, the client embraced a more modern interior with neoclassical accents as discussions with the design team progressed. The result: a residence that communicates emotion, function, and visual identity, all while staying rooted in timeless architectural language.
📐 Gentle Layout Reorganization
Thanks to a well-conceived original layout, major structural changes weren’t necessary. However, strategic edits—such as removing non-essential rooms—allowed for more efficient use of space. A technical kitchen and concealed storage systems were introduced, enabling smooth circulation and clear spatial logic through circular movement pathways.
🎨 Light Palette and Natural Materials
Light tones dominate the central living space, main bedroom, and ensuite, infusing the apartment with airiness. The interiors celebrate nature through veneered wall panels, tactile contrasts, and quiet harmony.
In the home office, the same veneered finishes appear on storage units and the desk, reinforcing a cohesive material language across the apartment.
🛏️ The Children’s Room: A Joyful Escape
The only deliberate deviation from the calm palette is the children’s bedroom. Designed for the clients’ 10-year-old son, it features a custom bunk bed with tatami mats, climbing net, and a cozy reading nook. This room transforms classical restraint into imaginative play, perfectly tailored for its young inhabitant.
🪑 Design with a Soul
Rather than rely on grand gestures, the apartment expresses sophistication through moderation. Furniture choices, material detailing, and thoughtful transitions between zones reflect Kvadrat Architects’ philosophy of designing from the subconscious, balancing form and feeling.
