19th century Kyiv hotel restored by balbek bureau
Sophia Hotel Kyiv has opened following a complete renovation by Kyiv-based architecture and interior design studio balbek bureau. Situated in a building dating back to 1881, the studio has shared an insight into how it went about renovating and redesigning the property.
Faced with designing 39 guestrooms, a cafe and communal areas in a space spanning 1,200m², balbek bureau first had to reconstruct the property. Since a different team of specialists had been responsible for the first stages of the reconstruction, architects had to take into account the existing layout, arranging the guestrooms within the building’s established shape. The team stripped the facade of layers of paint, revealing an array of colours from various periods, until the original yellow brickwork was reached, traditional in Kyiv at the time of building.
Once the space had been stripped, balbek bureau suggested a design that would breathe in new life, whilst also respecting the building’s original architecture. Following redesign, light walls now serve as a neutral background within the property, and splashes of warm colours such as burgundy and red add layers of cosiness. Interiors have been flooded with light, meanwhile, and are full of wood and brass elements. Since a significant focus of Sophia Hotel Kyiv is to introduce guests to local art, gastronomy and decor, most of the hotel’s furniture is made in Ukraine, and walls display paintings by local artists.
Guestrooms have been designed with small differences between them, while layout stays generally uniform across the property. Three different finishes and variations of decor can be found, for instance guestrooms featuring MDF panels (plain or veneered with an oak texture) have a carpeted floor, while in rooms with parquet flooring, the walls have been painted.
The beds’ headboards are made from soft fabric panels, which serve as a colour accent amidst the otherwise gentle colour scheme of the rooms. Focused lighting is achieved with the help of floor lamps and hanging lamps, while cabinet furniture for the project has been custom-made.
Cafe Marko, located on the first floor of Sophia Hotel, has been designed to introduce guests to Ukrainian culture in a comfortable, relaxed environment. The interior brings together warm shades of burgundy and green, as well as natural materials, lush plants and brass elements. The cafe is also furnished with vintage pieces sourced at flea markets and second-hand shops, as well as a selection of brand-new furniture.
