Moving from a house to an apartment always marks a new chapter in life. For this couple, already in a mature stage, the transition represented not just a change of address, but a redefinition of habits and routines. With their adult children living elsewhere, they sought a home that combined comfort, practicality, and above all, the preservation of family memories.

The residence is located in São Paulo (Brazil), in a seven-story building completed in 2023. Its contemporary architecture emphasizes natural light through generous glass openings, offering expansive views of nearby neighborhoods. The 360-square-meter apartment was purchased off-plan in 2020, allowing Marina Salles Architecture and Interiors to oversee every stage over nearly four years. Construction proceeded alongside the completion of the building, with around seven months dedicated to architectural and interior modifications, and additional months for decoration. Every detail was carefully planned to meet the homeowners’ desires.

The main challenge was harmonizing contemporary architecture with the family’s emotional heritage, including a piano, farmhouse furniture, colonial pieces, and inherited artworks. Architect Marina Salles chose a neutral, welcoming base where these objects coexist naturally with new acquisitions.

The color palette is intentionally restrained. White dominates as a backdrop, reflecting the light that filters through the windows, while wood adds warmth. Cumaru flooring and freijó cabinetry are used strategically to ensure visual continuity. Circular details appear subtly in handles, lighting, and special pieces, highlighting the studio’s meticulous attention to detail.

Facing west, the apartment organizes its social areas linearly: the trapezoidal terrace, living and dining rooms, and kitchen follow one another. Small fixed lower windows, supported by 50-centimeter walls, allow visual connection to the urban landscape without compromising privacy in either the living areas or bedrooms.

The balcony extends the living area, accommodating a table for casual meals and small gatherings. Limestone Fonjone flooring, laid in a deck-inspired pattern, ensures durability, while the ceiling retains its original wooden slats. A stone countertop with an integrated sink functions as a bar, equipped with a retractable faucet that maintains surface continuity when closed. Above, a glass-fronted cabinet serves as a display case. Family vases and indigenous benches complete the decor.

MORE PHOTOS