“When we first walked in, everything was just one big open room. And Jan and I both thought: Wow, this is amazing! We absolutely want to live in this creative space! But of course we had one big challenge: how do you make a home for a family of five in here?”
The answer: an architectural concept strongly inspired by Carmen’s Mexican roots. Small casitas – little houses within the space – divide the loft. Varying ceiling heights, sloping roofs, and walls that intentionally don’t reach all the way up create a sense of lightness and openness. Each “house” groups together different areas – from the office and the parents’ zone to the children’s rooms. Transparent elements let light travel through the space, while repetitive use of the same materials adds calmness and cohesion.
Leftover features from the old factory – fire ladders, radiators and metal fixtures – recall the building’s industrial past and give the home its distinctive vintage charm.
The rooms are filled with souvenirs and artworks that tell stories: a decorative ocelot from Mexico in memory of Carmen’s father; striking lions from Singapore guarding the entrance; the piña – a pineapple – from her mother’s homeland; handmade pieces created by Jan. Bold colours and creative objects organically blend into the interior.
“Every now and then, funny things happen in this apartment. For example, when the weather is really bad and the boys need to burn off some energy, they’ll grab badminton rackets and start playing right here.”
The living room was originally meant to stay minimalistic – but it quickly became clear that the space needed more warmth. Colour accents and soft materials add cosiness. A dark blue vintage Persian rug, on loan from a friend who’s an antique dealer, sets the stage for a neon-yellow armchair – an unexpected contrast and a true eye-catcher.
The kitchen combines chrome surfaces with light wooden fronts. The island remained exactly as it was and now forms the heart of family life. Colourful plates and vases bring a touch of Mexican vibrancy into the space – making it a lively gathering spot for everyday moments and evenings with friends.
The pink dining table is a real statement piece: warm, inviting, and delightfully unexpected. It brightens the room and turns every meal into a cheerful occasion. Its warmth and playfulness embodies exactly what this home is about.
Whether it’s the industrial remnants of the old factory or the repetitive use of the same materials and colours that bring calm to the open space – the apartment is a harmonious blend of elegant simplicity, thoughtful design, and deeply personal meaning. Every detail has its purpose and charm – a space that makes you want to stay and soak it all in.
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