In the heart of Kyiv‘s historic “Golden Triangle,” a pre-revolutionary building from 1911 stands as a silent witness to the city’s rich past. Within its walls, a small 73-square-meter apartment, once belonging to a man named Felix Lvovych, has been reborn. This transformation, lead by designer Yana Molodykh, is a tribute to the power of heritage, the allure of art, and the enduring spirit of family.
The apartment’s new owners, a Ukrainian-Dutch couple residing in Dubai, chose Kyiv as their primary residence, drawn to the city’s vibrant energy and deep-rooted history. For the Ukrainian wife, it was a homecoming, a chance to connect her son with his heritage. For her husband, it was love at first sight, an appreciation for the city’s unique charm. Their choice of location, nestled on the slope of Annalistic Hill overlooking Podil and the left bank, within the pedestrian zone of Landscape Alley, speaks volumes about their appreciation for Kyiv’s beauty.
The apartment, untouched since the 1960s, presented a unique challenge. Yana Molodykh was tasked with creating a comfortable two-bedroom home with ample storage, while honoring the building’s history. The result is a harmonious blend of classic Kyiv charm, Parisian chic, and Milanese retro flair. Think Belle Époque elegance mingling with Art Deco details, mid-century modern furniture, and a touch of brutalist strength.
Stepping inside, one is immediately struck by the soaring 4-meter ceilings, the classic parquet floors, and the meticulously recreated plaster moldings – a nod to Kyiv’s architectural heritage. The layout, though compact, feels spacious and functional, with a symbolic enfilade of rooms creating a sense of flow. But it’s the carefully curated art collection that truly elevates this apartment.
Works by renowned Ukrainian contemporary artists, including Anatoliy Kryvolap, Marfa Tymchenko, and Maria Prymachenko, grace the walls, transforming the space into a veritable gallery. These pieces, imbued with national spirit and cultural significance, are not mere decorations; they are integral to the apartment’s identity, weaving a narrative of Ukrainian art and heritage. Even the placement of the art seemed to happen organically, with each piece finding its perfect spot. Remarkably, a planned space for a television was instead claimed by a painting, demonstrating the owners’ commitment to art as a central focus.
The living room is a symphony of textures and styles. A walnut veneer and quartzite kitchen discreetly hides behind floating panels, while vintage dishes and accessories, sourced from antique markets and auctions, add a touch of old-world charm. A vintage Murano glass chandelier illuminates the space, casting a warm glow on the Edra Standard sofa and the &Tradition coffee table. A vintage Ukrainian cobalt vase and a hand-painted jewelry box by Filippo Carandini add personal touches.
The dining area, anchored by a Calligaris table and Norr 11 chairs, features a vintage marble horse and a crystal champagne bucket. A Pholc pendant light hangs above, while an antique French mirror reflects the light, creating an illusion of space. Sculptures by Nazar Bilyk and Andriy Lypovka add a contemporary edge.
The son’s bedroom, designed with a large sleeping area in mind, features a custom-made sofa bed inspired by a 1960s wardrobe found online. The wardrobe, restored to its former glory, stands proudly beside the sofa, a testament to the power of rediscovering and preserving the past. Paintings by Maria Prymachenko, vibrant and full of life, adorn the walls, infusing the room with a playful energy.
The master bedroom exudes an air of refined elegance, with luxurious La Maison Pierre Frey fabrics draping the windows and adorning the custom-designed bed. Paintings by Ukrainian masters Yosyp Bokshay and Albert Erdeli add a touch of classic sophistication.
Even the smallest details have been carefully considered. The dressing room features French wallpaper and handcrafted brass handles, while the bathroom boasts custom-made marble vanities and a mirrored cabinet with brass accents.
This Kyiv apartment is more than just a home; it’s a living testament to the city’s history, a celebration of Ukrainian art, and a reflection of the family’s deep connection to their roots. It’s a space where old and new intertwine, where classic elegance meets contemporary design, and where the whispers of the past resonate with the vibrant energy of the present. And, as a final touch, a restored chair belonging to the apartment’s original owner, Felix Lvovych, will soon find its place, a poignant reminder of the stories that have unfolded within these walls and the legacy that continues to unfold.