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GHAI proposed a large one-bedroom apartment , increasing live-work areas at the expense of sleeping areas , necessitating planning permission for this change . The new plan would create a large continuous L-shaped live-workspace wrapped around a central core and entrance hall , allowing flexibility in use , and the potential for a small office area , or open sleeping area to be sectioned off , if required . This resolved the irregular room shapes created by the obtuse 90-degree corner , creating a continuous unified space . The centrepiece of the plan is a large island , accommodating kitchen preparation , and office workspace facilities complete with storage , chargers , and ports . All internal walls , floor , wall , and ceiling finishes were to be removed , stripped back to the structural brickwork , and new structural beams introduced to achieve the desired layout .
The result is a large , impressive , airy space , which retains the generous 3.0m floor to ceiling heights , allowing natural light and cross ventilation through the apartment , from the south-west and north-west frontages ; in Serbia , summer temperatures can exceed 40 degrees Celsius . Double glazed doors from the dining area , open onto a small balcony which looks into the foliage of the trees and cafes within the piazza below , bringing nature into the main live-work areas and further enhancing cross ventilation and natural light .
Apartments in Stari Grad rarely come to market and the owners were delighted to have the opportunity to acquire a livework opportunity in the heart of Belgrade . While structurally sound , the apartment retained the original electrics , plumbing , and heating systems , all of which needed replacing . In addition , the layout did not suit the lifestyle requirements of the owners who spend much time designing , writing , and working from home . The owners decided to completely replan and refurbish the apartment .
Gordana Hay Architecture & Interiors (“ GHAI ”) was appointed to replan and design the apartment to align with the owner ’ s requirements , and to take full advantage of its corner location . A local architect of record was appointed with experience of conservation planning law , to submit drawings for conservation area consent and structural engineer appointed to undertake structural checking and prepare designs for new structural elements . The owners who acquired the property cash purchase , were keen to maximise on its potential , but to also to impose a strict budget of 1,200 Euros per sqm .