Blend of Modern Elegance and Historical Design

In the tranquil Bairro da Liberdade neighborhood, a 1985 home originally designed by architect Nuno Leonidas has been meticulously reimagined by Kema Studio. This renovation respects the home’s modernist roots while introducing contemporary elegance through natural textures, curved forms, and functional simplicity. The result? A space that balances warmth, movement, and refined minimalism.

The Vision: Preserving Heritage, Enhancing Flow

Kema Studio approached the project with a light touch, reorganizing key areas like the kitchen, laundry, and bathrooms without altering the original structure. Their goal: better circulation, more natural light, and a design that honors the home’s history.

Before & After: The Transformation

1. The Kitchen – From Wasted Space to Functional Heart

Before:
A vast room with original hardwood floors and a high ceiling felt underutilized, lacking purpose or definition.

After:

Sculptural Island: A ribbed wooden island anchors the space, serving as both a workstation and a decorative centerpiece. Its curves mirror the home’s exterior architecture.
Warm Minimalism: Simple wooden cabinetry contrasts with the island’s tactile texture, while organic curves soften the clean lines.
Natural Light: Strategic layout changes maximize sunlight, enhancing the wood’s natural grain and creating a cozy yet modern vibe.

Before Kitchen Renovation - A spacious room with timber-lined floors and ceiling once felt underutilized, lacking a clear purpose or defined function.

Minimalist wood cabinetry, a sculptural ribbed island, and soft curves define this contemporary kitchen renovation. Natural textures and original timber floors bring warmth, while the curved forms add movement and balance to the clean, modern layout.

2. The Laundry Room – From Utilitarian to Serene

Before:
A disconnected, dimly lit area that felt like an afterthought.

After:

Cohesive Flow: Integrated into the home’s circulation plan, it now feels calm and intentional.
Improved Functionality: Better spatial organization and enhanced lighting align it with the home’s renewed balance.

Redesigned to fit within a more cohesive circulation plan, the new laundry area now feels purposeful and calm. It benefits from better spatial organization and improved light penetration, aligning it with the home’s new sense of balance between common and private areas.

3. The Bathroom – Curves Take Center Stage

Soft Geometry: Rounded walls, indirect lighting, and a large mirror visually expand the space.
Subtle Luxury: Neutral tiles and integrated niches prioritize both aesthetics and practicality.

In this bathroom, curves take the lead. Soft-toned materials and indirect lighting work together to highlight the gently rounded walls. A large mirror extends the space visually, while subtle finishes keep the focus on comfort.

Key Design Takeaways

Respect the Original: Kema Studio proved that structural preservation and modern upgrades can coexist.
Texture & Contrast: The interplay of ribbed wood, smooth curves, and clean lines adds depth.
Light as a Tool: Enhanced natural light transforms functionality and mood.

✦ ArchUp Editorial Insight

This renovation masterfully bridges past and present, celebrating the home’s 1985 bones while infusing contemporary sophistication. The kitchen’s ribbed island and curved motifs create visual harmony, though a bolder material contrast like matte black fixtures could have heightened the modern appeal. That said, the restraint in palette and form ensures the design feels timeless, not trendy. Ultimately, Kema Studio’s work is a testament to how thoughtful minimalism can breathe new life into heritage spaces.

Design Skill Awards 2024

Reimagining Urban Spaces: Exploring the Transformative Power of Architectural Marvels” – Celebrating the Creative Designs, Sustainable Practices, and Social Impact