Juliana

Nestled in the heart of Berlin, amidst the vibrant streets of Prenzlauer Berg, lies a testament to personal vision and creativity - an apartment that embodies the journey of its owner, from Colombia to Germany, from law to music, from raw space to cozy haven.Discovering this apartment was no mere coincidence; it felt like fate had intervened. Amidst the urban chaos, it stood tall, offering refuge amidst the city's hustle and bustle. Its spacious interior, adorned with exposed timber beams and ancient windows, spoke volumes to its future owner. "I stumbled upon this place by chance. It's an old gem from the 1900s in a bustling street. Many would've turned away, but I saw life in its noise. The constant buzz reminded me of home," explains Juliana Martinez, originally from Bucaramanga, Colombia. ‘After studying law at university, I started my electropop music project under the name ‘Servicio al Cliente’ . Since 2007 I have lived in Berlin and today my daily life takes place in this apartment.’ adds Juliana

For Juliana, conventional selection criteria took a backseat. Instead of traditional closed rooms, the allure of open spaces beckoned. With sliding doors and a clear view of the lively street below, the apartment promised versatility and endless inspiration."From the start, I loved its long open space, perfect for adding sliding doors. The Prenzlauer Berg district wasn't my first choice, but the apartment drew me here," Juliana adds, expressing her appreciation for the calm yet vibrant atmosphere of her new neighborhood. The concept from the start aimed to revitalize its framework and heritage while maintaining the existing layout, establishing a solid foundation that could continually capture the vibrancy and essence of the bustling street life below.Renovations were inevitable, driven by a desire for energy efficiency. Triple-glazed windows were installed to achieve both acoustic and thermal insulation. The original yellow wooden floors made way for contemporary tiles. Yet, the journey was not without its challenges. Delays tested patience, while unexpected setbacks, like the insolvent roofer, added layers of complexity. The renovation, originally planned for twelve months, stretched to fifteen. Nevertheless, resilience prevailed and the kitchen emerged as a focal point, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. Integrated wall units and a carefully selected island seamlessly fused form and function, creating a space for culinary creativity and communal gatherings.‘I wanted an integrated kitchen with space. I was not convinced on having an island but at the end it was the perfect solution to integrate the kitchen to the sitting and dining area I wanted to have around it. ‘ says Juliana. As for decoration and furnishing, influences from Juliana’s childhood memories and Colombian heritage mingle with contemporary design sensibilities, creating a tapestry of colors and textures that reflect her personality. Juliana confides a fervent interest in the designs of the Memphis Group and the aesthetic of the Berlin GDR (German Democratic Republic). As a result, her home environment reflects a fusion of these passions. Some pieces of furniture are inherited from her previous residences, while others are upcycled or sourced from flea markets and online stores. Amidst this eclectic mix, one can also find new designs, such as the striking pink sofa. Furniture, sourced from flea markets and online platforms, bears the mark of history, each piece whispering tales of its past life. 

Handmade quilts and artwork by beloved Colombian artists serve as anchors, grounding the space in a sense of authenticity and belonging."I've brought along the drawings of my favorite Colombian artists, Stephany Y. Lozano and Adriana Lozano Roman. I consider them an integral part of my home, as their images add an element of whimsy and intrigue." In the end, the apartment transcends mere decor; it is a reflection of Juliana’s journey - marked by boldness, creativity, and a deep appreciation for the beauty found in imperfection."A space evolves with you. It's a journey of changing seasons, colors, and objects. Every year I keep reinventing it," Juliana reflects. Thus, one truth remains: a space is never truly finished. It evolves, just as its inhabitant does, with each passing season and every new chapter in life."Creating a home is about expressing yourself. It's a blend of memories, inspirations, and the joy of discovery," concludes Juliana

Styling & Owner: Juliana Martinez