Minimalism with Character: How They Designed a Micro-Kitchen in a Brezhnev-Era Apartment

This two-room apartment in a Moscow Brezhnev-era building was inherited from the grandmother by its owner. The young woman leads an active lifestyle, loves traveling and sports, so the interior had to take into account both family memories and modern functional solutions.

Designer Daria Kurchanova preserved the layout, restored the parquet and wooden windows, and selected a calm light color palette for most rooms. The project includes many storage areas, a yoga zone, and a compact kitchen where everything necessary was arranged without feeling cramped.

Photo: Kitchen before renovation

The kitchen is designed in a minimalist style with emphasis on clean lines and light decoration. The white corner cabinet with smooth doors and built-in hardware allows maximum efficient use of every square meter. The countertop in tone creates visual unity, while the white tile backsplash with an original pattern adds texture.

Design: Daria Kurchanova

Continuing the tile pattern on the wall near the window unifies the zones into a single whole and visually expands the space.

Design: Daria Kurchanova

The work zone is arranged so that cooking is convenient even in a compact area: the cooktop is built into the corner, next to it is a sink with a modern faucet, and above them are tall cabinets reaching the ceiling. Built-in storage systems keep kitchenware within reach without cluttering the room.

Design: Daria Kurchanova

A small dining table by the window became a cozy spot for breakfasts. Natural wood texture and vibrant red dishes brighten the interior and create a warm accent against the cool white-gray palette. Large windows fill the kitchen with natural light, making it feel even more spacious.

Design: Daria Kurchanova

The floor is laid with ceramic granite in a complex blue shade that echoes the overall light palette of the apartment but stands out as a distinct feature in the kitchen. The surface is practical to maintain and resistant to moisture, which is especially important for this area.

As a result, a minimalist yet cozy space was created, where every detail is thought out to the smallest detail. It's comfortable to cook here, pleasant to drink morning coffee, and easy to keep clean.