Polish designer Dawid Konieczny has completed a stunning renovation of a mid-century apartment in Warsaw's Praga district, featuring richly patterned Alpi veneer and honey-colored oak parquet flooring. The project demonstrates how contemporary design can honor historical architectural context while adding modern functionality and warmth.
The apartment is located within a 1950s estate originally designed by renowned Polish architects Jerzy Gieysztor and Jerzy Kumelowski. Konieczny approached the renovation with deep respect for the building's post-war character, incorporating warmer tones and eclectic materials to create a contemporary touch that feels authentically rooted in the structure's history.
"I wanted to draw on the architectural context itself, so that the references to mid-century modern and modernism would be historically grounded in the building's fabric," Konieczny explained. This philosophy guided every design decision throughout the 55-square-meter space, which underwent a complete layout transformation.
The renovation involved a complete reconfiguration of the apartment's original layout. Konieczny converted the former living room into a west-facing bedroom, while creating an open-plan living area by combining the original kitchen and small bedroom. This strategic reorganization maximized both natural light and functional space.
The centerpiece of the living area is a striking floor-to-ceiling shelving unit crafted from swirly California Burr veneer. This distinctive material was originally designed by Memphis Group founder Ettore Sottsass for veneer manufacturer Alpi in the 1980s. "I chose the wood as the defining texture that sets the tone for the interior," Konieczny noted, revealing that he crafted the shelving himself.
Throughout the space, Konieczny carefully balanced contemporary updates with authentic mid-century furniture pieces. The restored oak parquet flooring was meticulously sanded and treated with new stain to bring renewed vibrancy to the interior. The furniture selection includes Brazilian architect Sergio Rodrigues's iconic slouchy 1959 Sheriff chair, serving as an homage to the building's era.
Custom angular timber dining chairs were specially designed for the project, drawing inspiration from the work of modernist French furniture designer Pierre Chapo. A compact galley-style kitchen was cleverly tucked into the corner of the living space, enlivened by marble olive-hued tiles featuring an abstract pattern that adds visual interest without overwhelming the space.
The bedroom creates a serene retreat with its gentle backdrop of sandy hues, featuring a low-slung bed frame designed by Konieczny himself and delicate gauzy curtains that filter natural light. The bathroom showcases a carefully curated selection of gridded tiles, including a striking blocky crimson-red sink contrasted against black and white flooring and walls.
"The tiles complete the design and create a cohesive and balanced narrative throughout," Konieczny explained, demonstrating how every material choice contributes to the apartment's overall story. The bathroom design reflects the same attention to detail and historical awareness that characterizes the entire project.
Konieczny founded his eponymous interior design firm in 2021 and has quickly established himself as a rising talent in Poland's design scene. Last year, he completed another Warsaw apartment project that echoed the compact size and sophistication of a hotel room, further showcasing his ability to maximize small spaces.
The Polish capital has become home to numerous innovative residential projects by emerging creatives, including a colorful apartment recently designed by Mistovia for food blogger Rozkoszyny. Mistovia was crowned emerging interior designer of the year at the 2024 Dezeen Awards, highlighting Poland's growing influence in contemporary interior design. The photography for this project was captured by Oni Studio, documenting the successful marriage of historical respect and contemporary innovation.
