Optimum by Alex Bazyl

Optimum is a studio apartment for a young family designed by Alex Bazyl, covers an area of 66.2 sq. m. and is located in Ukraine, Kharkiv.

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The task was to create a friendly environment in the combined space of part of the apartment. Due to this, the key line of research was analyzing the bearing walls and partitions, making adjustments and looking for an optimal solution for zoning the area. The solution was to use curvilinear, convex and concave forms of walls for effective usage of the space.
Nature demonstrates only curvilinear and streamlined forms. This occurs because of the continual interaction of all the living and the environment. The apartment design was based on interaction of function, color and form.
By combining the main functional zones, the apartment received more light and air.
The curvilinear forms of the walls were advantageous for proper use of part of the apartment area. Interaction of form and function is inherent to all zones. The red wall with curving shelves conceals a closet for the entrance hall and a spacious wardrobe. The toilet facilities with a shower are located behind the light-colored wall with projecting niches. The curving forms are also present in the design of the ceiling and wall constructions.
Prior to design, the apartment had a separate projecting and recessed balcony. The projecting balcony depth was not big; however, it could be increased by additional reinforcement of the floor and side walls. Increasing the projecting balcony area allowed accommodating a refrigerator and a bar counter. Removing the balcony door made an opening to the kitchen. Connecting the recessed balcony opened an area for a computer workplace and a bookcase.
The core problem was creating a place for possessions. Simple solutions meant making a corridor and a long closet, which was not an option. A more remarkable solution was making a red wall with a streamlined form that would conceal a closet and a wardrobe. This solution changed the direction of motion from the entrance hall via the living room to eliminate a typical corridor.
Photography by Alex Bazyl