A young university student’s new apartment in Moscow was designed with a large library in mind, as requested by her parents. The custom-built bookshelf is a central feature, reflecting the client’s intellectual curiosity and passion for culture.
The apartment’s 68 square metres presented a spatial challenge, but designer Elizaveta Ryzhova created long visual axes to make the most of the space. A glass partition separates the living room from the dining area, maintaining an open sightline.
Ryzhova’s approach was to create a space that feels comfortable and personal, while reflecting the client’s interests and personality. The result is a layered interior with different influences coexisting naturally.
The custom doors, inspired by Constructivist architecture, contribute to the nostalgic quality of the apartment. Wood flooring and bespoke joinery bring additional warmth, while subtle references to the owner’s interest in Japanese language and culture are incorporated.
Furniture and decorative pieces bring another layer of personality to the apartment. Contemporary Scandinavian design sits alongside antiques, 1960s vintage furniture, and collectible objects.
In the living room, a Muuto pendant and Flos floor lamp sit alongside a Mononova sofa, an antique card table, and a custom cabinet. Artwork by Sergey Kozlikin and Boris Kocheyshvili adds visual interest, while sculptures, vases, and smaller objects contribute to the collected feel.
The finished apartment is bright, warm, and distinctly individual – a home shaped not by a prescribed style, but by the books, objects, colours, and cultural interests of the person who lives there. For its young owner, it offers a comfortable setting for the next chapter.
Ryzhova’s design approach allowed her to create a space that is both personal and reflective of the client’s interests. By combining colour, material, and carefully chosen objects, she created an interior with movement and stillness in equal measure.
The architectural finishes remain relatively restrained, allowing the furnishings and artwork to provide character without overwhelming the space. The result is a unique and inviting apartment that reflects the owner’s personality and style.
Elizaveta Ryzhova’s work on this apartment demonstrates her ability to balance different elements and create a space that is tailored to the client’s needs and preferences. The apartment’s design is a sign of her skill and attention to detail.
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