- Project: Watercolor Apartment for a Young Family
- Architect: Alexander Tischler
- Location: Russia, Moscow
- Year: 2024
- Area: 66 m2
- Photography: Olga Karapetian
The pet-friendly apartment in Moscow by Alexander Tischler exemplifies a smart, compact layout designed with both people and pets in mind. Completed between 2023 and 2024, this 66 m² two-bedroom apartment caters to a young couple planning to expand their family—with thoughtful features for their Maine Coon cat, a dedicated children’s room, and space-efficient custom furniture.
Custom Layout to Maximize Flow
Chief designer Karen Karapetian and the Alexander Tischler team reimagined the developer’s original layout, relocating the master bedroom and positioning the children’s room adjacent to the kitchen-living room. To improve openness, the wall between the two was shortened, enhancing light flow and visual connectivity throughout the apartment.
Kitchen-Living Room: Small but Mighty
Despite its limited size, the kitchen-living room was optimized for comfort and function:
-
Pet-friendly cabinetry: Lower cabinets extend to the window, forming a TV stand and built-in cat house with round cut-outs for easy access.
-
Minimal upper cabinets reduce visual clutter, creating a light, airy feel.
-
A dining table for four and a comfortable sofa complete the setting.
-
The wall behind the sofa features oak-textured panels and accent lighting for added warmth and visual appeal.
Children’s Room: Playful and Adaptable
Designed with future growth in mind, the kids’ room balances functionality and charm:
-
Full-height closet with whimsical, ball-shaped handles
-
A custom seamless wallpaper backdrop behind the crib
-
Balloon-like pendant lights introduce a soft, dreamlike atmosphere
-
Open floor plan allows easy transition from crib to bed as the child grows
Parents’ Bedroom: Comfort Meets Versatility
The master bedroom is crib-ready, with:
-
A soft upholstered headboard hiding outlets and integrated lighting
-
A dedicated crib space next to the bed for early parenthood
-
A vanity table with storage across from the bed, maximizing everyday convenience
Luxurious Bathrooms and Storage-Focused Hallway
Primary Shower Room
-
Finished in glossy emerald tiles, paired with light-toned furniture and brass accessories
-
A tall cabinet accommodates a washer and dryer, keeping appliances hidden but accessible
Guest Bathroom
-
Mixes oriental-pattern tiles with sandstone textures
-
Features elegant brass-trimmed fixtures, maintaining a cohesive design theme
Entry Hallway
-
Continuity is achieved with matching floor tiles from the guest bathroom
-
Includes a wall-hung cabinet with an integrated shoe box
-
A large mirror enhances depth and light
-
The front door is camouflaged to blend with the walls
-
A concealed litter box for the family’s Maine Coon adds convenience without compromising design
A Harmonious “Watercolor” Interior
The apartment is intentionally styled to stay bright and warm even during Moscow’s long grey winters. With a palette of natural tones, smart storage, and family- and pet-friendly elements, the home balances practical urban living with a serene, homely atmosphere.
