In the heart of São Paulo, a 160m² apartment has been transformed into a serene yet social retreat for a young entrepreneur
The project results in a contemporary apartment that combines comfort, functionality, personality, and sophistication
The project results in a contemporary apartment that combines comfort, functionality, personality, and sophistication

Conceived as a welcoming retreat for moments of rest and gatherings with friends and family, this 160-square-meter apartment, located in São Paulo, Brazil, was designed for a young entrepreneur who works in a family-run business. The project, which also prioritizes comfort and seamless integration for the resident’s dog, is the result of a collaboration between AVAA Arquitetura and architect Samia Sarayedine Testa.

Delivered by the developer as a bare shell, the apartment underwent a complete renovation, including full updates to the electrical and plumbing systems, ensuring well-distributed points compatible with the daily use of each space. Among the main requests were the creation of a generous dining area that could comfortably seat everyone around the table, and versatile social areas designed as true settings for connection and conviviality.

As this was the client’s first home, all the furniture was newly acquired, yet personality and emotional memory were incorporated through family photographs, colorful books, and sculptural trays with crystals chosen to bring good energy. The result is a comprehensive project that balances sophistication and practicality, precisely reflecting the client’s needs and translating his personality into every detail.

The entrance to the apartment is marked by a scenographic hall with low lighting and an intimate atmosphere. The Elitis wallpaper, purchased at Vitrine, adds texture and sophistication right from the arrival. The living room, considered the heart of the project, combines a coffee table from the AVAA Design line, Breton furniture, armchairs, and a double-sided sofa with a movable backrest — allowing multiple configurations as a home theater, lounge, sitting room, or conversation area. Rugs and curtains from Vitrine, along with decorative objects from Dpot Objetos and LS Selection, complete the space with sophistication and versatility.

On the terrace, the barbecue and veranda doors were kept, but the new configuration allows for full opening, ensuring integration between the spaces without compromising odor control. The strategic preservation of the original divider provides flexibility, balancing openness and functionality. The terrace dining area connects with the gourmet zone, featuring a countertop and barbecue on one side, and storage with a wine fridge and minibar on the other. The solid wood table by Tauna and black leather chairs by Breton bring both comfort and a sense of spaciousness for entertaining guests.

The kitchen, designed by Kitchens, is wide and functional, with generous storage and high-performance appliances from Gorenje. The dark-toned palette is balanced by light flooring and a pebbled backsplash that adds texture and personality to the environment.

The guest suite, which also doubles as a home office, combines functionality and comfort. Custom millwork optimizes the layout, while the AVAA Design sofa bed ensures flexibility. The striking powder room features a Nero Madeira stone vanity by NPK, black linen wallpaper, and a wall sconce designed by Waldir Junior, creating a dramatic play of light and shadow.

The master suite features a bed and headboard upholstered in black and white fabric, built-in Wooding nightstands, and scenic lighting that enhances comfort. The existing beam at the center of the room was embraced as an aesthetic feature — partially in exposed concrete and partially in plaster — highlighted by indirect lighting. The spacious walk-in closet was designed to combine organization and flow, while the bathroom maintains the project’s identity through a granilite floor connecting the spaces, dark gray textured wall tiles, and Kitchens cabinetry, resulting in an elegant and intimate atmosphere.

The lighting design was carefully planned to create multiple ambiances using directional, diffused, and soft LED fixtures, all in warm tones. The system allows the atmosphere to transform according to each moment, while maintaining low energy consumption and enhancing comfort. Durable materials such as granilite and ebonized wood ensure longevity, reduce the need for replacements, and reinforce the project’s commitment to sustainability.

The material selection emphasizes personality, timelessness, and visual comfort. The in-situ poured granilite flooring adds identity and expressiveness, while the ebonized wood panels bring sophistication and warmth, balancing texture and coziness. These elements ensure aesthetic impact, durability, and versatility.

Completed in June 2025, after six months of construction, the project results in a contemporary apartment that combines comfort, functionality, personality, and sophistication — translating the resident’s lifestyle into every detail.