How We Designed a Retro Bathroom in a Stalin-era 50 m² Apartment

Architect Vera Konakova decorated this two-room Stalin-era apartment for herself, creating a calm and minimalist interior. The main goal was to leave as much air as possible, fill the space with light, and use natural materials. The interior became a backdrop for items with history—paintings, vintage lights, and commemorative details that the owner had collected over many years.

The bathroom in the apartment was combined to free up more space and simplify the layout. The walls were clad with ceramic tiles, but not all the way to the ceiling—upper parts were left for painting. This approach helped avoid the “box” effect and visually made the room appear taller.

The main background is pure white tiles, which highlight chrome elements well: a built-in towel warmer and mixers in retro style.

Storage under the sink was designed in an unconventional way—the owner opted for open space instead of a standard cabinet, covered with a textile skirt. This pays homage to the kitchen in her parents’ house where such an arrangement was traditional.

Granite was used as the countertop—a durable, elegant, and tactile material. A built-in rectangular sink was installed on top, which perfectly complements the overall geometry of the space.

To define zones in the bathroom, a light curtain with a graphic print was used. It doesn’t weigh down the space and protects the rest of the bathroom from splashes. The finishing touch is minimal accessories in natural tones that support the restrained color palette.