Located in a 1970s building in São Paulo’s Jardins neighborhood, Brazilian firm RUA 141 Arquitetura transformed the JB Apartment that both honors its initial renovation from 2012 and introduces new elements to create a cohesive, modern aesthetic. The renovation project, led by architect Mona Singal, sought to preserve the original architectural language while introducing fresh, vibrant elements. The social areas of the apartment retained the distinctive burned cement flooring, with additional lighting carefully positioned to accentuate the ribbed concrete slabs. A bright yellow sliding door and a painting by artist Gabriela Costa inject a playful dash of color into the entryway, adding a dynamic contrast to the neutral backdrop.
To soften the space’s brutalist feel, a selection of Brazilian-designed furniture and decor was chosen. Pieces like the Bank Table by Jader Almeida, made from polished Nero Marquina marble, and the Jabuticaba Lamp by Ana Neute add a refined touch to the interior. The custom-built bookshelf, crafted from marine plywood, was extended to embrace the living and dining areas, maintaining a sense of continuity throughout the home. In addition to the yellow door at the entrance, a red door opens to reveal passage to the private areas of the apartment, while blue doors in the dining room front a set of built-in cabinets, all rounding out the trio of primary hues.
Several new design elements were introduced to enhance the apartment’s functionality and aesthetic. For example, a glass door was installed to seamlessly connect the terrace with the social area, providing a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. Metal benches with thin profiles and integrated planters filled with tropical vegetation contrast against the raw concrete surfaces, bringing a natural vibrancy to the setting.
The renovation also paid careful attention to the private areas. The existing wooden flooring in the bedrooms was replaced with new Tauari wood in a herringbone pattern, offering a contemporary reinterpretation of classic design. In the primary suite, materials like caramel leather and freijó wood nightstands provide warmth, while unique lighting fixtures and curated artwork introduce personality and charm.
The apartment’s bathrooms showcase a range of artisanal materials. In the powder room, all surfaces are enveloped in ceramic tiles that offer a warm, textured feel, while in the primary bathroom, granilite surfaces are paired with black fixtures and natural wood details to create a refined, sophisticated look. Meanwhile, the children’s bathroom features mint green and white hydraulic tiles that lend a playful, yet modern touch.
The renovation of the JB Apartment by RUA 141 Arquitetura is a testament to the firm’s ability to balance modernity with heritage, creating a unique and captivating living space that honors the original building while introducing fresh, vibrant elements.
Conclusion
The JB Apartment renovation by RUA 141 Arquitetura is a masterclass in balancing modernity with heritage, creating a unique and captivating living space that honors the original building while introducing fresh, vibrant elements. The firm’s attention to detail and commitment to using high-quality materials and design elements have resulted in a truly exceptional space that is both functional and beautiful.
FAQs
What was the goal of the JB Apartment renovation?
The goal of the renovation was to preserve the original architectural language while introducing fresh, vibrant elements to create a cohesive, modern aesthetic.
Who led the renovation project?
The renovation project was led by architect Mona Singal.
What materials were used in the renovation?
The renovation used a range of materials, including polished Nero Marquina marble, marine plywood, caramel leather, and freijó wood, among others.
What is the significance of the yellow door?
The yellow door is a playful touch that injects a dash of color into the entryway and adds a dynamic contrast to the neutral backdrop.
What is the significance of the blue doors?
The blue doors in the dining room front a set of built-in cabinets, rounding out the trio of primary hues and adding a pop of color to the space.
What is the significance of the glass door?
The glass door was installed to seamlessly connect the terrace with the social area, providing a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.
