Like many penthouses of its time, the flat had a compartmentalised layout that limited natural light and failed to make the most of its views, with outdated, inefficient installations. The space felt dark, maze-like and unwelcoming.

The owners, a young family with small children, wanted an open, practical home where they could enjoy family life and entertain friends. The design makes the most of every square metre and puts light and space centre stage.

The walls separating the lounge, dining room and kitchen are removed to create a single open, bright space. The kitchen, once small and dark, becomes the heart of the home, with a central island from which the parents can cook while keeping an eye on the children.

To keep the open space from feeling monotonous, subtle changes of level define the zones: the slightly raised lounge stands apart from the dining area and kitchen without the need for walls.

The two bedrooms and the bathroom are built into a grey wall that runs through the flat and opens onto the living area through carefully placed openings. The wall includes built-in wardrobes and shelving, providing plenty of storage without compromising the look. The grey contrasts with the white ceiling and the warmth of the wooden floor.

Floor-to-ceiling windows in the gallery and light colours fill the flat with natural light all day, while artificial lighting creates different moods with indirect lights and pendant lamps. A section of the original load-bearing wall is also kept, clad in grooved ceramic tiles and lit indirectly, becoming the focal point of the space. The gallery, overlooking the inner courtyard of the block, becomes a quiet corner with wood, stone and plants.