Less is more

By Marina Correa

Photography: Courtesy the architect

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Sustainability and simplicity are evoked through colour, material and texture – bringing in freshness to this serene abode…

Although architect and interior designer Igor Sirotov is Ukrainian, his projects are closely aligned to the Japanese Zen philosophy, where minimalism, nature-inspired and calm interiors rule. Located at a suburb in Kiev, Ukraine, the home is a cocoon for a young couple, who like to soak in the countryside…

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With a great love for horizontal rhythms, the architect chooses to use Roman blinds for all the window openings and even goes to the extent of calling this project ‘Frames’ in honour of the same. With the shifting incidence of the sun, elements of chiaroscuro play out artistically, whilst illuminating the home in different degrees, beautifully animating the spaces.

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Use of wooden flooring throughout the home has been a conscious choice for its warmth, earthiness and homely feel — allowing the homeowners to stay connected to nature even when indoors. Intriguingly, a four-poster bed is placed on the floor – a concept advocated according to ancient Japanese philosophy– so as to be closer to mother earth.

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Submitting to a minimalist vibe, even the walls are fewer in number with a largely open-plan-like design. This in effect opens up the volume and allows the spaces to flow seamlessly into one another. “Being an admirer of minimalism, I use a minimum of everything including walls; and in exchange, I receive a lot of light and unity with the landscape,” says Igor.

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The achromatic palette comprising only black and white may seem mundane at first sight but slowly reveals a rich complexity, where shadow and light set off a multitude of half tones.

Though quintessentially a modern home, the project is an ode to minimalism and natural elements.