Elegant apartment with natural elements

Designed for a discerning client, this 140-square-meter neoclassical apartment in Moscow exudes understated luxury. Every element of the space was meticulously curated by interior designer Galina Shashkova, whose attention to detail is reflected in the refined atmosphere and elegant materials that speak to the owner’s sophisticated taste. “At the outset, we established two key requirements with the client: a wood-burning fireplace and the exclusive use of natural materials for all finishes,” shares Shashkova, setting the tone for a project rooted in authenticity and warmth.

The apartment’s layout is both practical and elegant, with six thoughtfully planned rooms: an inviting entrance hall, a spacious living room, a cozy kitchen, a master bedroom, a full bathroom, and a guest bathroom. The stylistic approach of the apartment is best described as “quiet luxury” — a harmonious blend of elegance, comfort, and refinement. The palette of warm natural tones further enhances the serene atmosphere, creating a welcoming retreat amidst the bustling city.

Upon entering the apartment, the eye is immediately drawn to a striking handmade mirrored panel, which adds an artistic flair to the hallway. However, the true centerpiece of the home is the double-sided wood-burning fireplace. Beautifully integrated into a custom bookshelf in the living room, the fireplace also opens into the master bathroom, creating a unique feature that ties the two spaces together. The project is equipped with a smart home system that allows the owner to effortlessly control lighting and relaxation scenarios, while state-of-the-art ventilation, air conditioning, and humidification systems ensure optimal comfort throughout the apartment.

True to the client’s vision, all the materials used in the interior are entirely natural. From the luxurious stone finishes to the solid wood kitchen, every surface exudes quality and craftsmanship. The walls of the shower room are clad in warm wood veneer, while the bathroom features a sleek marble sink. The windows, crafted from solid oak, add to the eco-friendly nature of the apartment. One particularly unique design feature is the use of Alcantara for the wall coverings — a soft, suede-like fabric that enhances both the tactile and visual appeal of the space. Flooring choices include marble and solid wood, arranged in an elegant French herringbone pattern, which adds a touch of timeless sophistication to different areas of the apartment.

Custom-made furniture is another hallmark of the project. All built-in elements, including shelves, cabinets, wardrobes, and the soft wall panels that adorn the master bedroom, were crafted from natural materials by Walls Studio, a bespoke furniture company based in St. Petersburg. The bed and matching bedside tables, also custom-designed, harmonize perfectly with the overall aesthetic. Textiles designed by Khanat Magomedova complete the interior with carefully selected fabrics that emphasize the apartment’s organic feel.

One of the most visually stunning and technically challenging aspects of the project is the freestanding bathtub made from natural white onyx. “We personally selected the stone block, oversaw the fabrication process, and arranged for the 800-kilogram tub’s delivery and installation,” Shashkova explains. The bathtub was strategically placed near the window, allowing the owner to indulge in the calming ritual of a bath while enjoying panoramic views of the city skyline.

In this space, the neoclassical aesthetic reaches new heights, offering an exquisite living experience that embodies both timeless elegance and contemporary comfort.

Interior designer Galina Shashkova
Instagram @gala_shashkova

Photo credit Evgenii Kulibaba
Instagram @evgeniikulibaba

Style by Ludmila Krishtaleva
Instagram @luda_krishtaleva