Transforming a historic home often requires a careful balance between preservation and reinvention. In the heart of Moscow, designer Anna Zueva was tasked with exactly that challenge: reimagining a more than century-old apartment that had already undergone renovation and partial furnishing. What began as a temporary working apartment needed to evolve into a permanent, comfortable residence — all without major construction work.
The project required a highly strategic approach. Lamps, textiles, antique rugs and furniture had already been purchased and installed, meaning the design solution had to work largely with what was already there. Rather than altering the architecture, Zueva focused on decorative techniques and thoughtful interventions to transform the space into a refined, cohesive home.
A Subtle Transformation Through Decoration
Instead of structural changes, the designer used decorative refinements to elevate the interior. Ceilings were partially repainted, selected furniture pieces were reupholstered, and new lighting fixtures were introduced to create warmth and atmosphere. Even the standard white developer kitchen was reworked, evolving into an elegant focal point within the home.
White walls were retained as a neutral canvas, allowing colour, texture and materials to take centre stage. Vibrant textiles sit alongside polished surfaces and natural stone details, forming a layered composition that balances restraint with sophistication. Delicate mouldings placed between walls and stone cladding subtly unify the apartment’s different volumes, adding a refined architectural touch.
The Living Space as the Heart of the Home
At the centre of the 115 m² apartment lies the main living area, where a comfortable seating zone flows seamlessly into the open kitchen. A central island connects the two spaces visually, creating a natural hub for everyday living as well as entertaining.
This layout encourages easy movement throughout the apartment while maintaining a sense of intimacy. Carefully selected furnishings from brands such as Baxter, Maxalto and Living Divani add depth and character, blending contemporary design with timeless craftsmanship.
Lighting also plays a key role in shaping the atmosphere. Pieces from Lasvit and Visual Comfort create soft illumination that highlights artworks and decorative elements throughout the space.
Bedrooms Designed for Comfort
The private areas of the apartment were designed with equal attention to atmosphere and practicality. The principal suite offers a calm, restful retreat, enhanced by ambient lighting that casts warm tones in the evening.
Meanwhile, the children’s bedroom integrates a dedicated study zone alongside intelligent storage solutions, ensuring the room remains organised without sacrificing style. Throughout the home, comfort and functionality were prioritised, reflecting the evolving needs of the family.
Clever Storage for Modern Living
One of the most impactful interventions in the renovation was the optimisation of storage. Taking advantage of the apartment’s generous ceiling height, Zueva introduced a spacious walk-in wardrobe as well as bespoke built-in cabinets in the entrance and bedrooms.
These carefully designed systems maximise every available centimetre while maintaining the elegant visual language of the interior. The result is a home that feels both refined and effortlessly practical.
The final stage of the project involved meticulous styling and curation. According to the designer, the most complex element was the selection and approval of décor, which required numerous “fittings” to achieve the perfect balance of colour, material and form.
Today, the apartment stands as a sophisticated urban residence where historical character meets contemporary living. Through careful decoration, curated furnishings and thoughtful spatial planning, the once temporary apartment has been transformed into a welcoming home — one that reflects the personality and lifestyle of its owners while honouring the building’s long history.
Credits
Photographer: Mikhail Loskutov, @loskutoff
Stylist: Natasha Onufreichuk, @onufreichuk_before_after
Designer: Anna Zueva, Instagram: Anna Zueva Design
