About the project:
~ 7 min
Location
Vietnam
Climate
South house
Area
300м²
Step inside the design
Our global reach is expanding, and we are proud to announce our first project in Vietnam!
The interior design assignment in Ho Chi Minh City was a significant responsibility that we undertook with great enthusiasm. The country’s distinctive architecture introduced unique constraints: non-standard ceiling heights of just 2.5 meters (27 ft), as well as unconventional room and window layouts.
Our client dreamed of transforming the apartment into a true art gallery, where every corner is filled with art objects and statement chandeliers that invite closer inspection of every detail. The client was deeply impressed by our portfolio of dark-toned interiors and desired a home in Studia 54’s signature style.
Every element was meticulously curated by our team to not only meet the owner’s bold vision but also to create an inspiring space for his entire family.
Hall
The grand hall resembles a full-fledged art installation. The staircase and floor, clad in dark gray porcelain tile, create the illusion of a rushing river stream. This effect is accentuated by tinted glass railings with a bronze hue and a copper stringer that reflects the light.
A cube installation particularly draws attention. Its airy structure is deceptive: the cubes appear glass-like but are crafted from thin, flexible glass fibers resembling fabric. This solution avoided excessive structural load while preserving visual lightness. LED strips embedded within the cubes create shimmering color transitions. The installation evokes the famous Hoi An lanterns, which illuminate in the evening, transforming the streets into a glowing sea of lights.
The client desired a dark color palette for the interior, so the wall along the staircase is upholstered in deep-toned suede. We maintained a sense of spaciousness through contrasting materials and a sophisticated lighting scheme.
The opposite wall is adorned with a fresco, itself a standalone work of art. Abstract lines and large forms recall silk patterns, while the depth of red and terracotta hues echoes traditional ancient ceramics.
Living room
The living room seamlessly integrates three functional zones: a lounge, a dining area, and a kitchen.
A particular point of pride was our lighting design solution. Despite non-standard ceiling heights and numerous concealed utilities, we successfully incorporated the client’s love for statement chandeliers.
The solution was a unique composition of three hundred randomly arranged glass tubes with a brass base. This chandelier creates a complex play of light and shadows, adding artistic expressiveness to the living room.
The lounge area features a collection of furniture from renowned brands: Capital Collection, FiftyFourms, Minotti, and Bonaldo
The shelving unit serves as a storage system while simultaneously functioning as a standalone art object. Its back panel is adorned with hand-painted artwork, finished with a glossy coating. This technique creates the illusion of a precious gold leaf fresco preserved under glass. The horizontal shelves are upholstered in terracotta velour — a key accent color that unifies the entire space. A cozy atmosphere is enhanced by plush, deep-seated armchairs that add a layer of tactile luxury to the interior.
Dining area
The dining table, seating eight, is complemented by a harmonious composition of chairs in two distinct models. Light-toned chairs from Cattelan Italia emphasize the airiness of the space, while bold green armchairs by Fabrice Berrux echo the emerald tones of the kitchen cabinetry. This subtle dialogue visually connects the functional zones.
Kitchen
Adjacent to the dining area, the kitchen is executed in a rich green hue with exquisite brass accents. Natural marble seamlessly connects both spaces, creating a fluid and organic transition between them.
The client’s wife has a profound love for French culture. In recognition of her special connection to Paris, we infused the interior with Parisian chic. The centerpiece of this vision is a kitchen unit by the iconic brand La Cornue. Its flawless proportions, artisanal craftsmanship, and distinctive design embody authentic French elegance.
Second-floor corridor
The second floor continues the aesthetic concept of the first, transforming into a true art gallery. The dominant feature of the space is an abstract panel spanning the entire height of the wall. Adjacent to it sits a pouf from Giorgetti, its futuristic form inspired by Maserati automotive design.
The client desired a console table in the hallway, but a classic design could have compromised the ergonomics of the space. We proposed an unconventional solution: to turn the console into an art object. This led to the creation of a decorative wooden element with filigree metal-like finishing. It retains functionality while serving as a sculptural accent.
The composition is completed by a mirror framed as an architectural section within the wall. This technique creates an illusion of depth, adding complexity and multifacetedness to the space. Inspired by the Mekong River, which translates from Vietnamese as "Nine Dragons," the mirror itself becomes a standalone work of art.
Master bedroom
The bedroom is executed in deep, dark tones with an accent wall crafted from woven metal chains. This dynamic canvas is framed by a metal profile that echoes the black milled solid wood elements.
To soften the geometry and fill the space around the headboard, we introduced a wall featuring folds of natural leather. This technique added plasticity and fluidity to the interior.
A luxurious bed from Poltrona Frau is complemented by nightstands from Franco Bianchini and an elegant bench by Anna Roque, while lighting fixtures from Black Manckruz complete the composition.
Our client dislikes empty spaces, so nearly every corner features art objects or designer elements. The master bedroom was no exception — we suspended pearl beads that immediately draw attention. The installation resembles amber frozen in time. Each sphere captures a glimmer of warm light, infusing the room with a sense of comfort and making it irresistibly inviting.
The walk-in closet is seamlessly integrated into the master bedroom through thoughtful zoning. An open storage system with integrated lighting is combined with doors made of tinted glass. A central island, clad in genuine leather, serves as a storage unit for accessories. Above it, a suspended lighting installation functions as an art object.
Master bathroom
At the client's request, we created two separate mirrors for him and his wife. The mirrors are framed in green marble and custom-made specifically for this project. In line with this concept, we installed two sinks integrated into an acrylic countertop. This practical material was chosen to maintain a flawless appearance, as marble wears quickly under constant humidity. The countertop and splashback were also crafted by our team.
The shower area and toilet are concealed behind frosted tinted glass, which ensures privacy while still allowing natural light to filter into the space.
The standout addition to the interior is an accent chandelier from Patrizia Garganti. Its intricate silhouette and radiance infuse the space with distinctive charm and complete the look of a luxurious bathroom.
Guest bathrooms
When designing these spaces, the primary reference was a countryside house project in the Philippines. Since the client appreciates dark colors for their dramatic effect, we aimed to impress guests by implementing bold solutions here.
In the first guest bathroom, the centerpiece is an onyx sink with integrated lighting, allowing the stone to emit a soft inner glow. Above it, shimmering crystal pendants evoke crimson calla lilies, infusing the interior with refined elegance.
To maintain the ambiance, we used a dense velour curtain. It serves a crucial purpose: concealing the window to prevent natural light from disrupting the dark aesthetic. When needed, the curtain can be drawn aside for ventilation.
Additionally, the mirror was designed with a removable structure, providing easy access to the window for maintenance while preserving the space’s flawless appearance and functionality.
The second guest bathroom is designed with the ambiance of a private salon — intimate, subtly mysterious, featuring a play of light and reflections. An elegant chain curtain conceals the window, enhancing the sense of intrigue.
The focal point is a sink by Antonio Lupi with integrated lighting. Its soft glow transforms it into an art object, creating a striking contrast against the dark walls.
Children's bedroom
An asymmetrical bed was chosen for the child's room. We proposed an original design combining multiple fabric textures: jacquard panels are complemented by contrasting black and yellow bouclé stitching. This approach creates tactile diversity and adds coziness to the space.
The room’s color palette is built around a combination of green and orange — an energetic yet harmonious duo that fosters a joyful atmosphere.
To compensate for the low ceilings, we implemented a lighting solution: flexible neon fixtures mounted on the wall and ceiling. This visually elevates the ceiling and provides soft, ambient illumination.
This 300 sq.m. (3,229 sq.ft) apartment design project once again proved that for our team, there are no obstacles, and any architectural features become a springboard for unique design solutions. We brought the client's bold dreams to life — creating the atmosphere of a luxury gallery where every corner invites exploration. Overcoming the challenges of Vietnamese architecture, we preserved a sense of spaciousness and filled the rooms with artistic lighting.
The vision of a personal gallery in dark tones has transformed into a warm, cozy home where every day begins with inspiration — and this is our team's greatest achievement.
