A Home Alive with Colour
How a 1950s cottage renovation reveals distinctive character
The handcrafted Moroccan cement tiles in the entrance are the first hint: this south Munich home has stories to tell. Stories from its past – when a corner grocery store once thrived here. And stories from today – the vibrant everyday life of a five-person family seeking a new, open heart for their home. A place to cook, eat, laugh, and truly live. "We wanted the new kitchen and dining area to become a gathering space that brings the family together," explains Munich-based interior designer Stephanie Loy. "More than just functional – it needed personality, bold color choices, and a touch of playful extravagance."
A striking slate-blue frames the base units and plinth, commanding immediate attention. The light grey wall cabinets paired with a natural stone worktop in alpine green—finished with an elegant leather-look surface—create a compelling yet restrained counterpoint. The showstopper is a substantial, custom-crafted bar counter in oak veneer: angular and bold, with fine vertical grooves that introduce rhythm and dimension. Every detail was executed with millimetre precision, the lacquer finish pristine—a technically sophisticated solution that makes this kitchen unmistakably individual, much like the bespoke cabinetry throughout. The kitchen's true heart is the oversized coffee machine, complete with its own purpose-built cabinet featuring a discreet drawer for spent grounds. Stephanie Loy lavished the same meticulous attention on the new entry area and guest WC, creating a welcoming space with purposeful organisation and thoughtful details—including a generous shelf with a hinged top for charging cables and car keys, plus integrated power outlets, alongside a minimalist wooden bench crafted by a skilled carpenter.
The traditional tile patterns complement the Red Earth walls beautifully, while Danish Dots wall hooks and a designer mirror from a Bavarian craftsman introduce contemporary flourishes. Vintage hallway lighting pieces from the family's own collection were thoughtfully woven into the design, adding to the home's distinctive charm. What truly stands out: every family member had a hand in shaping this renovation. Colors, flooring, materials – all decided together. The premium oak floorboards and wall colors were selected as a family. "That collaborative spirit infuses every corner with personality," Loy reflects. "And most importantly, the family now feels completely at home."
Photography:
Alejandro Fernandez
(Published in CUBE Munich 02|25)