The house in Stare Bielany on Lipińska Street is an example of a successful, thoughtful renovation, in which the historic fabric is given new life through contemporary architecture. The pre-war villa has been extended with a single-storey pavilion featuring a steel structure and large glazed areas. The contrast is deliberate, yet not jarring.Both structures are united by a consistent colour scheme on the façade and carefully designed landscaping.
The interior design was prepared by architect Jagna Bielowicka. The residents of the house in Stare Bielany have gained an attractive place to live. The modern pavilion, which houses the living area—the lounge, kitchen, gym and conservatory—is particularly striking. The plot is shaded, so a key design feature was the use of a glass roof, which brings even, natural light into the interiors. As a result, spaces that could not have been so open in the historic part of the building now enjoy full contact with the garden. The large glazed areas allow the garden to become a true extension of the living room. The pavilion covers 170 square metres, whilst the historic building covers 150 square metres.
The interiors of both parts of the house were designed in harmony. The villa has retained its traditional character: classic flooring, joinery and bespoke fittings. This is a deliberate nod to the era in which it was built. At the same time, the freestanding furniture and decorative elements are contemporary, light and uncluttered. As a result, the historic part does not turn into an open-air museum; it remains elegant, yet functional and up-to-date.
The modern pavilion speaks a completely different language. The microcement flooring complements the steel structure, whilst simple, understated furniture emphasises the minimalist character of the space. Shades of grey dominate, warmed by natural wood. The strongest feature, however, is the conservatory with a jacuzzi, situated in the corner of the pavilion. Lush vegetation is visible from both the living area and the gym. The glazing of the spa area allows the greenery to permeate the interior, and the boundary between the house and the garden becomes fluid. This solution gives the modern part of the house a unique, almost garden-like character.
The whole creates a harmonious composition in which history and the present do not compete with one another, but rather reinforce each other. The house in Stare Bielany is an example of how bold architecture can respect its context whilst introducing a new quality – one that is functional, bright and open to its surroundings.
design: Jagna Bielowicka
photos: Mood Authors
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