Tucked away in the rolling Russian countryside lies a spectacular home that embodies classic refinement and contemporary finesse. Extending slightly over 2,000 square feet, this beautiful abode is situated in the picturesque village of Zhukovka, just outside Moscow. It is a testament to the nation’s rich cultural heritage and its owners’ fondness for grandeur.
The architects at Moscow design studio Archpoint achieved this feat through a thoughtfully conceived layout by incorporating calming colours; expensive natural materials like marble, stone and wood; sophisticated furniture from renowned brands including IPE Cavalli and Fendi; and elegant chandeliers.
Its imposing façade is adorned with intricate carvings and ornate details that seem to dance across the exterior walls. Inside, a spacious foyer extends into a sweeping staircase of black and white Dalmatian marble leading to the upper floor. The two storeys are separated by distinct themes. On the ground floor, the designers use dark, soothing hues to contrast with a dramatic white and grey backdrop for the fireplace, where Lithos Design light stone panels form a striking three-dimensional effect. The upper floor is dominated by two palatial bedrooms distinguished by vivid colour tones.
The interiors are a masterful blend of traditional Russian motifs and modern comforts. Sumptuous furnishings, rich textiles and exquisite artwork adorning the walls all create a warm and inviting atmosphere. One of the home’s outstanding features is its seamless integration with the outdoors. Floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors lead to expansive decks, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
The heart of the home is the extensive open-plan living room, with its soaring, well-illuminated ceiling and windows that frame the garden and let in plenty of natural light. Easy access to the patio enables an immediate, harmonious transition from indoors to out. The garden landscaping juxtaposes trimmed shrubs and tall trees.
In the centre of the room, a large plush velvet sofa sits under a shower of crystal glass dangling from the chandelier. It faces the majestic stone fireplace which has been carved into the marble feature wall. This is the perfect spot for cosying up on a round chaise longue in front of the fire during chilly winter evenings. In an unconventional but elegant style, the television is suspended on a separate stand rather than positioned on the feature wall, making it easier to move the angle of the screen when hosting large gatherings.
Extending from the lounge, the open kitchen is equipped with ample counter space, perfect for whipping up traditional Russian dishes. A large centre island, also crafted in marble, acts as a dining table and is set with four chairs. The colours here are brighter, with mustard-yellow cabinets and grey walls. A round crystal chandelier hovers above the dining area, echoing its sister in the living room.
The upstairs bedrooms are lavish, serene retreats with gorgeous bedding and soft lighting. Here, too, chandeliers contribute to the warm luxury of the décor. The master suite has an oceanic theme, contrasting the turquoise and deep blue of the upholstery, panelling and drapes with the golden ‘liquid-metal’ coating that etches the walls and furniture. The chamber’s polygonal shape makes it a multipurpose space with a TV wall, sofa and armchair. The en-suite bathroom has a deluxe soaking tub and separate shower, perfect for unwinding after a long day. The other bedroom exudes an earthier theme, combining beige enamel and a rich palette of American walnut. It is an unusually long room, separated by a TV wall facing the bed, with a walk-in closet and desk beyond. Both bedrooms are adjoined by bathrooms decorated in accordance with the colour scheme – light and dark. Mirrors from IPE Cavalli have graceful frames, and the designers have provided several options for lighting – from pendant globes to spotlighting under the sink and bathtub.
The furniture in both rooms was chosen to match the interior colours, with walls and headboards highlighted as accents. In the turquoise room, the feature wall behind the bed is framed by natural Lithos marble with an eye-catching illuminated pattern; in the brown bedroom, the wall plastering is accentuated by an undulating relief carving. Special attention has been paid to the wardrobes, which are also dressed in the colours introduced in the bedrooms. There are functional cabinets made by local craftspeople, as well as chests of drawers and an IPE Cavalli dressing table.
More than just a residence, this house is an experience. It showcases the perfect amalgamation of traditional elegance and modern sophistication through stunning architecture and superb interior design, underscored by breathtaking natural surroundings.
Photos: Moscow Design Studio Archpoint