My Teacher’s Home

It has been 20 years since our last English lesson with Lara, a teacher who has deeply challenged my way of thinking, living, and learning throughout the years. The moment she asked for my help in redesigning her apartment, I knew that the project brief was about to spark creativity, playfulness, and a careful reconsideration of every decision.

The 55 sqm apartment renovation was approached as both an architectural exercise and a quiet act of gratitude. Knowing that the home belongs to a couple who love travelling, learning, and model-building, the apartment had to reflect the creativity and curiosity of their personalities.

Colour became the primary narrative tool. Lara, my English teacher, often quoted, “I am having a blue period.” Rather than applying this idea superficially, we embedded it into the architecture itself—through cabinetry, tiles, and built-in elements—so that each space carries its own atmosphere while remaining part of a coherent whole.

In the kitchen, light blue pastel surfaces are paired with plywood, enhancing the natural light coming through the adjacent balcony. The space is compact, yet it feels generous through careful detailing and continuity of materials.

In the bathroom, handmade ochre tiles wrap the walls, reflecting warmth and grounding the space, while geometric blue patterns on the floor and bathtub introduce rhythm and playfulness. The glass block diffuses daylight, transforming it into a soft glow that shifts throughout the day.

The bedroom palette becomes more subdued, allowing rest to take precedence. Built-in storage lines the walls, integrating seamlessly with the architecture and maximizing the limited footprint. Navy blue and light wood tones continue here, but in a quieter dialogue.

The living room is perhaps the most personal space. Here, colour is used with confidence: deep teal walls, warm yellow accents, and carefully curated furnishings create a setting that feels both vibrant and intimate. Bookshelves, objects, and light all contribute to a layered environment that speaks of memory, knowledge, and daily life.

Ultimately, the renovation is less about transformation and more about revelation. It uncovers the potential of a modest apartment and aligns it with the personality of its inhabitants. Through colour, light, and thoughtful composition, the space becomes a reflection of appreciation—a built expression of respect for someone who shapes minds, now surrounded, hopefully, by spaces that quietly return the gesture.