How This Berlin Apartment Merges South American Art with Ukrainian Design

Discovering a Unique Blend of Cultures in Berlin's Interior Design

In the vibrant Tacheles complex of Berlin, a fascinating synthesis of Ukrainian interior design and South American art springs to life in a modest 900-square-foot apartment. Home to Chilean architect David Basulto and Ukrainian beautician Valeriia Karas, the couple’s living space is a testament to their personal journey and a celebration of diverse cultural influences. Their home serves as a canvas that reflects both their backgrounds and individual styles, showcasing how two seemingly different worlds can creatively coexist.

Embracing Eclecticism: A Unique Design Approach

The couple's decision to partner with Balbek Bureau illustrates a modern approach to home design. This Ukrainian architecture studio brought a refined yet eclectic aesthetic to their apartment, embodying their shared appreciation for Japandi style—a design philosophy that combines Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian functionality. The result is a carefully curated interior that emphasizes both comfort and elegance.

The open kitchen-living area, characterized by innovative spatial planning, navigates the challenges of smaller living quarters. The team divided the once monolithic gray kitchen into three visually distinct sections, employing a playful interplay of materials like MDF, stainless steel, and rich Caribbean quartzite. Overall, this thoughtful transformation highlights how effective design can optimize space while providing a stunning visual narrative.

Unexpected Touches: Personal Items and Colors

What stands out most in the apartment is not just the utilitarian elegance but also the thoughtful integration of personal touches. Karas's design sensibilities are on display through the vibrant use of colors found in the two bathrooms—one clad in pink, the other in green—each creating idyllic retreats within their cozy home.

Art plays a central role in this couple's life, with pieces sourced thoughtfully, reflecting their backgrounds and tastes. The dining set from Ellison Studios adds an aspirational note to their living space. Though it presented significant logistical challenges to source the items from Australia, the couple’s dedication to obtaining unique pieces illustrates their commitment to building a home that tells their story.

A Deep Dive into Cultural Appreciation

Living in a city renowned for its artistic vibrancy, Basulto and Karas have woven their personal histories into the very fabric of their home. Their apartment stands as a powerful representation of how love can flourish amidst various cultural backgrounds—an inspiring narrative not only for interior designers but also for couples navigating cross-cultural relationships.

Looking to the Future: Home as an Expression

As they settle into their life together, Basulto and Karas epitomize the idea that home is not only a physical space but also a deeply personal expression of identity. The couple's philosophy of blending artistry with functionality may inspire others aiming to balance diverse cultural influences in their spaces.

Whether you’re considering a remodel or designing a new home, remember that every design decision can be an opportunity for cultural expression. Each choice of color, material, and layout reflects who you are as individuals.

Let Us Help You Create Your Dream Home

For those inspired by Basulto and Karas's journey, the art of home design offers endless possibilities. Let us design, plan, and build your next home or remodel. Call us today at 831-521-7729, and take the first step toward creating a living space that embodies your unique story and style.