With a foundation rooted in modernist lines and a commitment to creating a functional kitchen, the Studio + Formica project by architects Assis Humberto and Marcus Vinícius from Studio Arquitetônico has become a sensory haven within CASACOR Minas. This captivating space combines architecture, design, and culture, offering a celebration of gastronomic experiences.
Drawing inspiration from the Semana de 22, a pivotal moment in Brazilian history, the architects incorporated elements of Modernism into their design. The Semana de 22, or Week of Modern Art in English, was a historic landmark that unfolded in 1922 in São Paulo. It marked a cultural revolution, bringing together artists, writers, and intellectuals who sought to break away from traditional styles and embrace a more modern and avant-garde approach. The event had profound reflections on various facets of Brazilian society, including culture, architecture, design, and fashion. Organic forms, slender curves, and the use of glass reflect the ethos of the Semana de 22, creating an environment that not only pays homage to the past but also seamlessly integrates modernist principles into contemporary architecture.
The Studio + Formica’s space is accessible through a suspended walkway that traverses a lush garden, guiding visitors to a glass-enclosed lounge enveloped by greenery. This intentional design fosters a harmonious dialogue between spaces, transcending the traditional focus on the kitchen and offering diverse yet complementary atmospheres.
Functioning as more than just a culinary space, Studio + Formica is a ‘kitchen of sensations.’ Collaborating with Prima Linea, the architects crafted authorial furniture inspired by childhood memories. The Jirau table, reminiscent of traditional jirais, and the Taboca chairs, named after Brazilian bamboo, evoke a sense of nostalgia. The Jirau table, with its organic top and cylindrical bases, introduces a touch of lightness to contemporary spaces by breaking away from traditional dining table shapes.
In deliberately connecting with their roots, Studio Arquitetônico shows us the beauty of a blend of modernist lines with organic shape. Beyond its utilitarian purpose, this functional kitchen becomes a space where past and present converge, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the richness of Brazilian design and gastronomy.
Photo credits: Estudio NY18