Nômade Apartment by Coarquitetos | Dynamic Design for Artistic Living in Brasília

The Nômade Apartment, a unique residential renovation in Brasília, epitomizes adaptability and creativity in design. Located in the heart of the city at SQN 210 Bloco F, this 113 m² space was transformed from two separate apartments into a fluid, multifunctional living environment. The project, which began in 2019 and completed its execution in 2022, was a result of a dynamic and evolving creative process, closely aligned with the client’s needs.

A Dance-Inspired Living Space

The client, a psychologist, artist, and dancer, envisioned a space that would accommodate both her professional life and artistic practices. The renovation aimed to incorporate a dedicated dance room into the apartment, which was originally formed by combining two separate units. The resulting space features a symmetrical layout that blends functionality with artistic expression, creating an apartment that is both a home and a creative studio.

The name "Nômade" reflects the philosophy behind the design—embracing fluidity, movement, and constant transformation. The apartment is designed for change, with spaces that can be adapted for various functions over time. Just as the client frequently moved furniture to suit her needs, the apartment is built to evolve with her lifestyle.

Designing for Flexibility and Movement

The concept for the Nômade Apartment focused on creating a living space that encourages flexibility. The layout includes one entrance for the main living area, while a second, opposite entrance leads to the dance room. The house itself is accessed via what was once the service entrance, now transformed into a spacious hall with a bathroom, closets, and an area for storage.

The living room is seamlessly integrated with the kitchen and the balcony/garden area, offering an expansive and airy environment. A central corridor connects various rooms, each of which can serve as a bedroom, office, or guest room, thanks to sliding doors that allow for quick rearrangement of the space.

A Dedicated Dance Room

At the heart of the apartment lies the dance room, designed for both professional use and personal practice. The dance area measures 2.70x4.60 meters, featuring a wooden floor, mirrored walls, and a ballet bar for functionality. The former balcony area has been transformed into an internal garden, which can be enclosed with heavy curtains to reduce sound transmission when needed. This garden adds a natural, calming element to the room, reinforcing the connection between movement and nature.

Materiality and Emotional Design

The design of the Nômade Apartment combines strength with lightness, using high-quality materials to create an inviting atmosphere. The floor throughout the living and dance areas is made from ipê wood, contributing warmth and texture to the space. In the access hall, the floor is adorned with hydraulic tiles that replicate those from the client's grandfather's farmhouse, adding a sentimental and emotional connection to the space’s design.

Sustainable and Personal Touches

Sustainability and personalization were key elements of the design. From the choice of durable materials to the emphasis on adaptive use of space, the Nômade Apartment is a testament to sustainable living. The open layout encourages fluid movement, while personalized details such as the custom-made flooring and the integration of the dance area highlight the client’s personal journey and connection to her surroundings.

All Photographs are works of Maurício Araújo