BE Apartment by MZNO — Renovation and Spatial Transformation in Lagoa, Brazil

Located in Lagoa, Brazil, the BE Apartment by MZNO is a thoughtful renovation project that reimagines a compact 969 ft² residence into a modern, fluid living space. Completed in 2022, the design focuses on openness, material honesty, and a seamless connection between social areas and the surrounding views.

At the heart of the transformation, the architects restructured the apartment’s existing core. Originally occupied by bathrooms, this central block was redefined as an open kitchen, introducing amplitude and a greater sense of integration. By opening the plan, MZNO fostered fluid connections between the living room, dining area, and kitchen, ensuring that natural light and outdoor views became central elements of daily living.

A key highlight of the renovation is the social bathroom, which now features rounded contours. These soft geometries not only enhance circulation but also echo the angles of the building’s façade, creating architectural continuity. The apartment’s material palette reinforces this design narrative: the exposed reinforced concrete structure interacts with stainless steel, burnt cement, and carbon steel, producing a raw yet refined aesthetic.

To balance this industrial language, the restored hardwood floor adds warmth and contrast. Its natural texture introduces a cozy and inviting atmosphere, softening the bold tones of gray and metallic surfaces. This careful interplay between modern materials and traditional flooring results in a home that is both functional and emotionally resonant.

The BE Apartment renovation by MZNO exemplifies how strategic reconfiguration and material expression can maximize compact spaces while enhancing comfort, circulation, and spatial fluidity.

All Photographs are works of Felco