Black represents sophistication and elegance—a palette designers often choose for refined, distinguished interiors. This philosophy guided Angelika and Mathias Rathke, both diploma-trained designers at Innenarchitektur Rathke in Schondorf am Ammersee, as they tackled this penthouse project in Munich. Their rare advantage: a "room with a view" that demanded restraint. The design needed to be understated enough to honor—not compete with—the spectacular vistas across the mountains and the vibrant cityscape below. Even for seasoned designers, this proved refreshingly new. Their solution: embrace black as the dominant ambient tone. This strategy allows the diverse views to remain the focal point, while the interior's elegance and simplicity recede gracefully into the background, allowing each to elevate the other.

The existing apartment was completely stripped to its core and the floor plan meticulously redesigned. The bathroom now features dual access—one from the hallway, another from the bedroom—optimizing functionality. Translucent sliding doors rising 2.65 meters high, inlaid with brass mesh, create flexible spatial divisions while maintaining privacy when desired.

The "fade to black" phase came next: black cement flooring, walls and furnishings clad in ebonized oak, and a blackened ceiling. Restraint was essential—brass fixtures provided the only deliberate contrast. This disciplined palette becomes a backdrop, allowing the owners' carefully curated personal pieces to truly shine. The sophisticated lighting scheme mirrors this philosophy: minimal black spots recessed into the ceiling and discreet indirect strips seamlessly integrated into the cabinetry keep light sources nearly invisible while perfectly staging each zone. The result? An ideal setting for an evening in—city views, dimmed ambient light, premium sound, and a fireplace glow all working in harmony.

www.innenarchitektur-rathke.de

Photography:
Innenarchitektur Rathke

(Published in CUBE Munich 04|22)