journal
Photography: Damir Otegen
29 / 04 / 2025
Interior design: IDA Design Mates
Overlooking the river, the latest project by the IDA Design Mates studio embraces an elegant aesthetic with a touch of irreverence. Pastel colours, bold details, and graceful arches stand out in this family home.
In one of the most prestigious residential neighbourhoods in Astana, Kazakhstan, the 265 m2 family apartment brings together traditional local elements and iconic modern design pieces in an interior that reflects the beauty of its surroundings.
Aisha Adilshiyeva, founder of IDA Design Mates, said, "The proximity to the river profoundly influenced the interior design, seamlessly integrating the tranquil beauty of the outdoors with the sophisticated elegance within." The design team created a light and airy atmosphere by incorporating reflective surfaces into the space. "Astana's climate, characterized by its crispness, is thoughtfully mirrored in the apartment's interior — imbued with a refined elegance that is both understated and rich in captivating details," says the designer.
In this project, the IDA Design Mates team focussed their attention on detail. The designers spent two months designing the patterns for the mouldings displayed on the walls, around the doors and ceiling. "We aimed for originality, avoiding repetition, and wanted these details — especially on the ceilings — to captivate and hold attention with their uniqueness," says Aisha.
The patterns on the walls combine geometric and floral elements, giving grace to the space. "To create these bespoke designs for the walls, ceilings, and doors, we dove deep into books on the history of ornamentation, drawing inspiration from centuries of decorative artistry," remembers the designer.
An existing support column near the entrance forced the team to come up with a solution - they chose to create two large arches leading to the living room. "For me, rhythmic arches embody a sense of order – soft, not rigid – especially when one frames the view of another, creating depth and continuity," says Adilshiyeva.
In the living room, the mosaic fireplace by artist Art Oskolok, with blue buntings and blooming poppies - an allusion to Kazakh culture - is surrounded by a colourful arched frame, creating contrast and balance. "The fireplace had to be a bold, inviting, and warm focal point. That's how the red color emerged – like a stage set for such a striking piece."
The walls are a blank canvas for works of art. Touches of colour have been thoughtfully introduced through the carefully selected furniture in pastel and vibrant colours, mirroring the cheerful and carefree personality of the owners.
In terms of materials, the designers chose wood as the project's central material, conveying comfort and a natural essence. The marble surfaces bring a touch of luxury and elegance to the rooms, offering a refined contrast to the wooden elements. The metal details and mirrored surfaces increase the feeling of space and light, reflecting the environment and adding depth to the interior. The plaster mouldings add a classic sophistication, unifying all the materials in a harmonious and balanced environment.
This project results in a cosy apartment that honours family and local traditions with a touch of modernity.
Aisha Adilshiyeva, founder of IDA Design Mates, said, "The proximity to the river profoundly influenced the interior design, seamlessly integrating the tranquil beauty of the outdoors with the sophisticated elegance within." The design team created a light and airy atmosphere by incorporating reflective surfaces into the space. "Astana's climate, characterized by its crispness, is thoughtfully mirrored in the apartment's interior — imbued with a refined elegance that is both understated and rich in captivating details," says the designer.
In this project, the IDA Design Mates team focussed their attention on detail. The designers spent two months designing the patterns for the mouldings displayed on the walls, around the doors and ceiling. "We aimed for originality, avoiding repetition, and wanted these details — especially on the ceilings — to captivate and hold attention with their uniqueness," says Aisha.
The patterns on the walls combine geometric and floral elements, giving grace to the space. "To create these bespoke designs for the walls, ceilings, and doors, we dove deep into books on the history of ornamentation, drawing inspiration from centuries of decorative artistry," remembers the designer.
An existing support column near the entrance forced the team to come up with a solution - they chose to create two large arches leading to the living room. "For me, rhythmic arches embody a sense of order – soft, not rigid – especially when one frames the view of another, creating depth and continuity," says Adilshiyeva.
In the living room, the mosaic fireplace by artist Art Oskolok, with blue buntings and blooming poppies - an allusion to Kazakh culture - is surrounded by a colourful arched frame, creating contrast and balance. "The fireplace had to be a bold, inviting, and warm focal point. That's how the red color emerged – like a stage set for such a striking piece."
The walls are a blank canvas for works of art. Touches of colour have been thoughtfully introduced through the carefully selected furniture in pastel and vibrant colours, mirroring the cheerful and carefree personality of the owners.
In terms of materials, the designers chose wood as the project's central material, conveying comfort and a natural essence. The marble surfaces bring a touch of luxury and elegance to the rooms, offering a refined contrast to the wooden elements. The metal details and mirrored surfaces increase the feeling of space and light, reflecting the environment and adding depth to the interior. The plaster mouldings add a classic sophistication, unifying all the materials in a harmonious and balanced environment.
This project results in a cosy apartment that honours family and local traditions with a touch of modernity.
