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    CEA Design characterises this Russian home with a fusion of Japanese symbols and futuristic themes

    DEC 22, 2020 | By Meghna Meduri
    A circular gap in the partition between the relaxation zone and living area creates a seamless flow; Photograph by Sergey Ananiev
    Visual balance is achieved by the interaction of modern and minimal design. It is further accentuated by the wall art by Tashita Bell; Photograph by Sergey Ananiev
    The exterior reveals abstract and futuristic themes of the design ideology; Photograph by Vasiliy Khurtin

    The domains of architecture and design are tasked with creating spaces that not just resonate with individuals but also pay an ode to the environment. Located near Moscow in the Chekhov district, this 3,230 sq ft property—modelled by architects Nikolaev S, Kulich D, Salov A and Oseckaya T of CEA Design—exemplifies this concept by employing Japanese symbols as well as soothing and energising themes.

    The client’s readiness for experimentation from the get-go and desire for a phenomenal house granted the creatives artistic freedom to ideate a novel and imaginative space.

    The ground floor houses the kitchen, dining room and a relaxation zone by the fireplace. The former is separated from the rest of the living area through a partition with a spherical gap, which creates a path for uninterrupted dialogue in line with classical symbolism and Japanese culture.

    The relaxation area defines the core of the design with its yin and yang interiors; Photograph by Sergey Ananiev

    The relaxation area has a practically closed circular shape and its design is symbolic of two balanced halves—yin and yang. Also present on this level is the master suite with an ensuite bathroom and an additional guest washroom. A spiral staircase leads from the hall to the first floor, which is occupied by two bedrooms, another bathroom and a study with a view of a bespoke pond.

    Large-format porcelain tiles are used for the spiral staircase and throughout for flooring; Photograph by Sergey Ananiev

    We love how the architecture is integrated with nature and surrounded by verdant landscapes. An example of the former sentiment is the green roof, on which a garden with woody and herbaceous plants and artificial relief is planted. Roof lamps, oriented to the movement of the sun, are another excellent accessory to remind one of the outdoors.

    Minimalism in material and colour palettes highlights the artwork; Photograph by Sergey Ananiev

    The organic flow and futuristic construction may be contrasting but still create a harmonious visual frame. This balance is accurately represented and indicated through a painted wall leading towards the landscape in the central zones of the building—an aspect developed in collaboration with Russian artist Tashita Bell. 

    Dark walls allow sculptures and decorative elements in this powder room to take the stage; Photograph by Sergey Ananiev

    The interiors integrate “home gallery” principles into the living area. “In keeping with the theme, the material and colour palettes are kept minimal both indoor and outdoor. So, the building frame is entirely made of concrete, while natural materials are used inside. The floor uses large-format porcelain tiles in the common areas and solid American walnut in the more private zones. Meanwhile, the walls are plastered and the bathrooms are equipped with CEA fixtures,” the creatives point out.

    The bathrooms feature CEA fixtures against American walnut flooring and plastered walls; Photograph by Sergey Ananiev

    Grey dominates the home and acts like the perfect backdrop for the many sculptures, decorative elements with hidden Japanese themes as well as furniture that are seen across the home. These neutral colours highlight the plasticity of geometric shapes in contrast with the environment, and focus the attention on the symbolic compositions and objets d’art integrated into the space.

    An aerial view of the property displays the unusual architectural structure; Photograph by Vasiliy Khurtin

    This project perfectly conceptualises a sense of continuous contact, the flow of energy of man and nature, the inconstancy of the moment and the invariability of the algorithms of the environment, functionality and an organic essence.