From Dilapidated to Delightful: A Colorful and Geometric Transformation in Evreux Suburbs

Revitalizing a Challenging Social Context through Interior Design: A Small Space Transformation in Evreux Suburbs

In the midst of a difficult social context in the suburbs of Evreux, a remarkable interior design project has emerged, aiming to breathe new life into a cramped 13 m² space. Despite its dilapidated condition, this space possessed a redeeming quality in the form of floor-to-ceiling windows, spanning half of its facade wall. Leveraging this feature, the design team embarked on a total refurbishment, meticulously reimagining the layout to maximize functionality and aesthetics.

Achieving Balance through Smart Space Allocation: Recognizing the common issue of disproportionately sized bathrooms and kitchens in small studios, the designers sought to restore equilibrium. To accomplish this, they opted to demolish the only partition in the space—the bathroom wall—thereby reclaiming precious square footage. In its place, a new wall made of glass blocks was erected, creating a spatial division between the petite bathroom and the kitchen without impeding the flow of light. This floor-to-ceiling glass partition introduced a captivating vertical proportion, accentuated by a remarkable 50 cm wide and 250 cm high wooden door. Meanwhile, the kitchen was thoughtfully minimized and crafted entirely from wood, adding warmth to the overall aesthetic.

Infusing Playfulness and Movement: To inject a sense of joy and dynamism into the compact space, a curved yellow curtain was introduced. This movable element not only functioned as a room divider but also concealed shelves and enhanced privacy in the bathroom. Due to the limited dimensions of the room, this playful addition subtly altered the geometry and proportion, making the space feel more dynamic. Complementing the vibrant curtain, the design team opted for a blue linoleum floor and a striking red pillar in the kitchen, reminiscent of Mondrian's primary colours.

Playing with Geometry and Functionality: The designers skillfully manipulated geometrical elements to divert the functional purpose of various objects, transforming them into abstract works of art. Plumbing pipes, for instance, were embraced and left visible as sculptural installations. In the shower, a contrasting blue joint boldly accentuated the small white tiles, while a triangular sink backboard played harmoniously with a circular mirror. The plinths were meticulously constructed using white marble-like tiles, adding a touch of elegance. Even the bathroom handle, fashioned from the same tile, resembled a cascading glass block.

Creating the Illusion of Space: To counteract the confined nature of the studio, a key objective was to make the space feel larger through thoughtful modularity and the use of natural materials. Meticulous attention to detail was given to every aspect, ensuring that the design was both visually appealing and functional. The incorporation of vibrant colours and geometric patterns breathed life into the otherwise dreary urban context, injecting a sense of joy and vibrancy into the environment.