Restoring the Soul of a 1943 Historical Gem in Poznań, Poland.

In the heart of Poznań, Poland, a residential district carries a structural gem that stood since 1943, patiently waiting to reclaim its former glory. This story of restoration and transformation unfolds in the hands of Agnieszka and Piotr Kuchciński, the passionate custodians of this historical treasure.

In 2014, when the deal was sealed, their design journey began. The house, bearing the weight of seven decades, retained its original character, untouched by the passage of time. Eager to embrace its unique charm, Agnieszka and Piotr decided to listen, to let the house whisper its secrets, and to respect its enduring value. Their vision emerged over years of meticulous exploration, resulting in a harmonious fusion of past and present.

The house’s functional layout remained true to its roots. The ground floor, a hub of daily life, seamlessly merges the kitchen, dining room, living room, and a discreet toilet. Ascending to the upper floors reveals the bedrooms and a bathroom. The historical elements remained unscathed—a testament to the pair’s commitment to preservation.

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The house had one significant drawback—a scarcity of natural light, especially on the ground floor. The remedy was bold but brilliant—removing unnecessary walls and opening up the space above the living room, creating a soaring, sunlit haven. The sun now dances through the windows, illuminating the towering trees in the garden. The exposed timber roof structure bathes the entire house in daylight.

The interior’s unity and expansiveness became the driving force. Timber floors, painted black stairs, and uniform off-white walls with a subtle gloss became the canvas for the narrative. This neutral backdrop amplifies the expressive art and furniture that breathe life into every corner. Designed by Piotr himself, contemporary pieces coexist harmoniously with vintage treasures collected over the years.

In the kitchen, an island doubles as a communal table, while a vintage teak shelving unit exudes timeless elegance. The dining room, beneath the mezzanine, welcomes a divers set of chairs in shades of black, adding an artistic touch to everyday gatherings. In the living room, sculptural lamps illuminate the vintage icons that dominate the space.

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The mezzanine, created by removing a portion of the ceiling and walls, offers space for a wardrobe and oak furniture. An exposed concrete beam, like a spine connecting the terraced houses, becomes a captivating focal point.

The master bedroom’s double window frames a beloved pine tree, complemented by internal shutters adding functionality and charm. Sentimental objects and cherished furniture lend a personal touch to this intimate space. In the master bathroom, terrazzo slabs and a unique stone double wash basin crafted by the owners enhance the feeling of rustic luxury.

This Poznań residence stands as a testament to Agnieszka and Piotr’s unwavering commitment to preserving history while embracing the future. Through their thoughtful restoration, the house’s identity remains intact, now enriched with newfound aesthetic and functional values, creating a more fulfilling living experience.

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[Images courtesy of Piotr Kuchciński. Photography by Oni Studio.]