Located in a 1950s Art Deco building, one block from Lagoa and close to Ipanema Beach in Rio de Janeiro, the Saddock de Sá Apartment, with 100 m², underwent a complete renovation that reorganized its layout and enhanced its relationship with the surrounding context.
The search for a property with large windows, abundant natural light, and proximity to the surrounding tree-lined urban landscape guided the choice of this apartment, located on a lower floor with a direct view of the treetops. To ensure greater privacy, wooden blinds with blackout and an automated system, by Hunter Douglas in partnership with Arthur Decor, were installed throughout the apartment.
The original layout, highly compartmentalized and with a bathroom located at the center of the social area, was radically transformed. The demolition of several walls allowed for the creation of a spacious, integrated social area that brings together the kitchen, living room, dining area, home theater, and a small relaxation corner with a buriti fiber hammock. The new configuration enhances the flow between spaces and expands the possibilities for social interaction.
During the renovation, structural columns and plumbing stacks with different diameters were revealed in the social area. To visually organize these elements and integrate them into the architecture, we created cylindrical plaster columns that provide a refined finish and bring unity to the composition.
The kitchen was fully integrated into the social area and conceived as an active part of the living space. The Verde Gaya quartzite countertop was designed as a sculptural block that concentrates the activities of the space and establishes a direct dialogue with the living area. At one end, two Girafa stools by Lina Bo Bardi allow for quick meals, while the dining table by Wooding seats six for longer gatherings. The tower for appliances and storage was positioned in the former service area, a solution that made it possible to eliminate the secondary door and enhance the spatial continuity.
The organization of the social area creates different places for gathering and staying. The main sofa — by Lider and upholstered in Donatelli fabrics — invites moments of relaxation and social interaction. Beside it, the low We-Knit armchair, designed by Guilherme Wentz, establishes a visual triangulation between those in the living room, the kitchen, or the dining area.
The clean aesthetic also extends to the dining area. There, the design curation creates a striking trio: in addition to the Wooding table, the chairs are designed by Guilherme Wentz, and the pendant light is by Dimlux.
The home theater serves as the couple’s relaxation area. The comfortable sofa by Carbono was chosen as the perfect spot to unwind at the end of the day. The composition becomes even cozier with the soft light cast by the wall sconce and the greenery carefully selected by the residents. The space is visually defined by a banana fiber rug from Cia das Fibras.
The project’s material palette was conceived to reinforce an atmosphere of calm and connection with nature. For this reason, earthy tones are present throughout the design, appearing not only in the furniture but also in the finishes and surfaces.
– MAURICIO ARRUDA
CREATIVE DIRECTOR AT TODOS ARQUITETURA
All masonry surfaces received the same natural pigment texture in an earthy tone, creating a continuous and sensory atmosphere. The reference for this choice comes from the landscape of Rio de Janeiro, evoking colors that recall beach sand, the bluish-green tones of the sea, and the deep hues of tropical vegetation.
The palette is reinforced in the joinery, all crafted by Madeirol. The combination of light wood, natural materials, and clean lines brings the project closer to a Scandinavian aesthetic, while elements such as low beds, globe-shaped light fixtures, and an emphasis on essentials evoke references from Eastern design. The result is a hybrid atmosphere that blends the restraint of the Japandi style with the tropical lightness of Rio de Janeiro.
In the private area, the guest bedroom was designed with simple and functional solutions that do not compromise on comfort. Open joinery helps visually expand the space and reinforces a light, minimalist aesthetic, complemented by the solid wood bed by Wooding and a headboard upholstered in Donatelli fabric. The lighting is provided by the pendant and wall sconce designed by Waldir Júnior.
The main suite also incorporates a versatile workspace, created in a former balcony that was integrated into the bedroom. The area gains a highlight with the Cosme chair by Novo Ambiente, positioned next to the desk by Estúdio Mezas. The result is an inviting environment for both work and rest.
The sense of comfort and warmth in the bedroom is enhanced by the bedding from Casa Almeida, the Donatelli fabric that upholsters the headboard, and the presence of wood in the details, such as the full-length mirror by Ondo Mobília Contemporânea.
FLOOR PLAN
