Kremlin view | SALON-interior №3 (114) 2007
The new assignment of Sergey Estrin Architectural Studio is two-level penthouse where particular accentuated dramatic views play major part of design.
“The apartment is situated at the excellent address by Tretiakov gallery, in Staromonetny lane, on the top floors of newly built property, – says Sergey Estrin. – The building has unique location with incredible panoramic view to the city – from the Kremlin down to Christ the Saviour. The apartment, though, had awkward layout due to changes introduced during construction for marketing purposes. We finished up having spiral staircase in the middle of sitting room right in front of the main entrance as well as randomly located shafts and flues. The second floor also wasn’t all that perfect. It is tiny with miniscule rooms; the rest is terrace, which in our climate one can appreciate only couple months of a year. So, at the end of the day we had a very intricate space. The only reprieve was the windows. The evening view from the upper floor is breathtaking, and we tried to support the exceptional location with the architecture. The space was arranged in the way so the hosts could enjoy the scenery. Hydraulic lift was installed in staircase opening. One of the windows was emphasized by graceful bow-shaped structure also serving as a stove bench. One can rest with a book and enjoy the view.”
The owner is a generous host and loves parties. The apartment was purchased to actually have a place for social gathering. The apartment is therefore an open space with assigned zones for lobby, fireplace, home cinema and dining room. As the space is rather valuable the dining area was economised by introducing table that would come down from the ceiling on wire ropes.
The sofa by the fireplace can be turned towards window with remote control. The entire fit out concept was built on colour, texture, and limited amount of materials used – natural stone, stratified textured plaster, gold and silver leaf. “We tried to create a striking, textured, colourful, in a way with fresh ideas space, where one could lead not only pleasurable by fascinating life”.
