Explore the Zen Minimalism of Z. RIVER. STUDIO
Explore the Zen Minimalism of Z. RIVER. STUDIO
A Look at the Architecture and Design Studio’s Totally Tranquil NYC Project
Project:
Modern Zen
Architects:
Z.RIVER.STUDIO
Location:
New York City, USA
Photography:
Z.RIVER.STUDIO
Words:
Caroline Meeusen
Modern Zen—the name of this project says it all. The sleek New York City apartment from the minds of Z.RIVER.STUDIO breathes a calm elegance through every room. It’s a conscious effort on the designers, who believe that “home” should be a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, a place where you leave behind the world’s stressors and step into a place of zen.
The Ukrainian interior and architectural design studio is based in Kiev, and was founded in 2014 by architects Zakhar Zibrov and Diana Zibrova. Within these last five years, they have realized both private and public projects that have put their natural talent and unique approach on the map in the design industry. Add in their authentic passion for experimentation and eye for detail, and you have an incredible formula with which they create designs that are comfortable, stylish, and forward-thinking—most evident in the Modern Zen project.
“This project is about introversion, digital detox, reflections on purity, and the mindfulness of choice,” says Co-Founder Zahkar. “It makes us think about what surrounds us and who we are.” You can see this in their choice of color, texture, and design details. The overall palette consists of shades of beige, interrupted by some contrasting black pieces and details like the dining table, lamp, panel, side table, and chair. The beautiful glass coffee table by Cappellini, stamped with an electric blue, provides a welcome pop of color in the otherwise neutral space.
Other impressive details include a biomorphic On the Rocks sofa by Edra and the beloved ‘Roly Poly’ chair by Faye Toogood in the living room. For the designers, selecting the accessories, often from progressive or renowned modern artists, helps to bring the space to life. The NYC retreat is filled with these décor dreams, including artworks by Hendrik Kerstens and iconic pieces like the Kangaroo Chair by renowned designer Pierre Jeanneret, and the Ekstrem lounge chair by Terje Ekström in the bedroom.
With this project, Z. RIVER.STUDIO achieved a visually-clean interior where you can find calm and piece in the midst of noise. With a spectacular view over the Big Apple, you can still enjoy the bustling city while maintaining a sense of ‘ohm’ from inside the space. As Zakhar says, “life implies a desire to find a ‘shelter’ in the house,” a welcome digital detox right in the heart of the city.
