Higienópolis Apartment Renovation by BLOCO Arquitetos: A Modern Fusion of Originality and Functionality

Located in São Paulo, Brazil, the Higienópolis Apartment showcases a masterful renovation by the renowned architectural firm BLOCO Arquitetos. Completed in 2023, this 230 m² residential project exemplifies a harmonious blend of modern design, sustainability, and historic preservation. The apartment’s transformation was driven by the need to respect its original structure while adapting the space to meet the requirements of its new inhabitants.

Preserving Architectural Integrity: The Original Features

One of the core elements of this renovation was the careful examination and preservation of the apartment's original features. The existing concrete ceiling was a key focal point of the design process. The team discovered that the visible face of the ceiling was merely a finishing layer with no structural function. This insight enabled the architects to safely remove this thin covering, revealing a stunning array of structural beams that had been hidden for years.

Restoring Classic Elements with a Contemporary Twist

The existing ipe flooring, laid in a distinctive double-fish scale pattern, was another feature that was preserved and restored. This warm, natural wood material contributes to the apartment's timeless elegance and offers a striking contrast to the more industrial elements of the design. Similarly, the original solid brick walls were exposed after the removal of plaster from the perimeter, adding a layer of raw authenticity to the interior spaces.

Expanding the Living Space: A Thoughtful Layout

To accommodate the changing needs of the new residents, several walls were strategically removed. The apartment's living room and kitchen spaces were expanded by eliminating one of the existing bedrooms and the dining room. This expansion created an open, airy environment where the boundaries between rooms blur seamlessly, encouraging both movement and interaction within the home.

Seamless Integration of Materials and Finishes

The design of the Higienópolis Apartment was centered around the integration of open spaces and the use of a limited number of materials and finishes. The architects carefully selected a refined palette that balanced both the existing materials and new elements. This approach ensured a cohesive aesthetic that highlights the beauty of the apartment’s original architecture, while incorporating modern finishes for a fresh, contemporary feel.

Renovating the Suite: Maximizing Space and Functionality

The renovation also included the expansion of the apartment’s suite, achieved by removing another bedroom. This move increased the overall living area and allowed for a more spacious, luxurious private retreat. By stripping away unnecessary partitions, the apartment's layout maximizes both space and natural light, giving the owners a comfortable and functional home.

 A Harmonious Blend of Old and New

The Higienópolis Apartment renovation by BLOCO Arquitetos is a stunning example of how to preserve the past while adapting a space for modern living. By focusing on the apartment’s original features, such as the concrete ceiling beams, solid ipe flooring, and exposed brick walls, the architects were able to maintain the building’s architectural heritage. At the same time, the clever redesign of the living room, kitchen, and suite has created a contemporary living space that caters to the lifestyle of the new residents.

All Photographs are works of Maíra Acayaba