GL-RESIDENCE in Svetlogorye village, Russia by INRE Design Studio is flawless and architecturally wonderful.

It’s an extensive project that includes the renovation of a residence, the interior design of 234sqm and the design of a garden lounge landscape on an area of 0,2 ha.

Initially, the project presented itself as a standard cottage located in the VIP area of a village on Novorizhskoye Highway, built in a single style. Without completely departing from the existing format and without increasing the building footprint, INRE has managed to substantially refurbish the house with the right compositional accents. German bricks and brushed thermo board were chosen for the cottage cladding. The window openings were enlarged, the frame columns were painted white, and the foundation was clad with stone – this visually “grounded” the house, making it more welcoming. Brickwork, vertical rails, horizontal boards and shutters in the windows set a dynamic rhythm to the architecture. INRE is always very attentive not only in the choice of materials but also in their treatment. For example, the texture of brushed pine covered in thick, dark paint is visible in any lighting conditions. Thanks to the well designed external lighting, the expertly arranged garage and the atmospheric terraced landscape, the residence imparts a sense of privacy and uniqueness. With the help of specific modifications, the standard cottage has changed visually and functionally, becoming an object of pride for the owners and a topic of lively interest for guests and neighbours.

The interior design is based on a planned paradox. While the exterior of the terrace and paths uses unconventional light colours, erasing the feeling of ‘outdoors’, the interior is dominated by darker tones. With this technique, spaces flow seamlessly from one to the other without creating an obvious inside/outside contrast.

The ground floor of the house has a combined living room, dining room and kitchen, where the owners can host guests, gather in large groups and dine with family and friends. Neutral, natural-toned materials are used in the space, echoing the house’s exterior: grey marble, brushed parquet flooring, wood panelling with a pronounced texture and a dense coat of dark paint. The perimeter of the panels has recessed floor moulding to illuminate the hallway and staircase.

The cosy living area with a fireplace is slightly recessed relative to the level of the kitchen.

If there is a need for a more intimate environment, one can move to the small poker room located here, on the ground floor. It is usually used as a place for board games or a cinema room. It features a more emotional colour scheme, evoking a feeling of energy and excitement. In furnishings, especially the gaming table, preference is given to materials that are more tactile and pleasant to the touch.

The first floor of the house is private and accommodates a master bedroom with a fireplace and bathroom, two dressing rooms and two guest rooms.