Architect creates museum-quality interior with vintage pieces by Zalszupin and Sergio Rodrigues without structural changes

SÃO JOSÉ DO RIO PRETO – Architecture firm Lucas Fernandes Arquitetos has transformed a 300 sq m flat in São José do Rio Preto into a space that functions as a living museum of Brazilian design. The LF Bristol project, developed for couple Fernando and Letícia, brought together vintage pieces by designers such as Jorge Zalszupin, Zanine de Zanine and Sergio Rodrigues without major civil works, as the property is rented.

The refurbishment prioritised the preservation of original architectural elements. White Carrara marble flooring in the social areas and ipê wood flooring in the private areas were completely restored, maintaining the property’s original character.

In the sitting room, walls, floor, ceiling and curtains in soft tones create a neutral base that highlights the furniture. Rosewood dominates the space, with antique pieces collected by the couple. The room is divided into two organically connected environments: a more traditional one, with sofa and armchair separated from the television area by a discreet panel, and another focused on contemplating the urban landscape.

The connection between the spaces is made through the iconic Onda Bench by Zalszupin. In the dining room, a work by Roberto Burle Marx harmonises with Agda chairs by Zanine de Zanine. Wooden and straw tips by Sergio Rodrigues, alongside the Guanabara table by Zalszupin, complete the scene.

In the bedrooms, the strategy prioritised lightness. In the master bedroom, the bed fully covered in neutral-coloured tapestry invites rest. Headboards and fabrics overlap subtly, creating a delicate contrast. The guest room features a muxarabi panel at the back, an element that adds warmth and visual complexity.

The project’s main challenge was to harmonise the physical and historical weight of the furniture with the flat’s light and bright structure. Textures and weaves became allies in bringing joviality to a collection of pieces with dense historical significance.

Besides the designers already mentioned, the project incorporates works by Jean Gillon, Jader Almeida and Bruno Jorge. Photography is by Denilson Machado of MCA Estúdio.