Imagine stepping into a home that instantly melts away the chaos of city life, replacing it with a sense of serene calm. That's exactly what furniture designer Marc Krusin has achieved in his east London flat, a space that feels more like a sanctuary than a typical urban dwelling. But here's where it gets controversial: can a home truly be both a haven of tranquility and a functional space for a busy family of four? Krusin, who recently launched a property development service aimed at creating harmonious living environments affordably, seems to think so. And he’s not just a designer—he’s also a meditation teacher, a practice he’s been dedicated to for over 20 years. 'It’s transformed my life,' he shares. 'The deep rest you experience through meditation means I need less sleep and can work with greater clarity and focus.'
This duality—calmness and functionality—is evident throughout his home, which overlooks Haggerston Park with stunning skyline views of Shoreditch. The open-plan interiors, bathed in natural light and adorned with neutral tones and organic materials, feel worlds away from the conventional new-build flat it once was. And this is the part most people miss: the design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a space that adapts to the needs of a modern family.
Take the dining area, for instance, where Krusin’s Clay Table for Desalto takes center stage, flanked by dining chairs from Knoll’s Krusin Collection. The walls feature a striking lino print by Katharine Gorham, adding a touch of artistry. In the hallway, bespoke shelving includes a 'phone bin'—a designated spot for devices to charge overnight, encouraging a digital detox. This small detail speaks volumes about Krusin’s philosophy: technology should enhance life, not dominate it.
Since purchasing the flat in 2017, Krusin has reimagined every inch to suit his family’s lifestyle. Full-height frameless doors flood the space with light, while underfloor heating eliminates the need for bulky radiators. A sliding partition between living areas creates a versatile hub that feels both modern and unique. Here’s a bold interpretation: by removing the television from the compact living area and relegating screens to a separate 'games' room, Krusin is making a statement about the importance of face-to-face connection in a tech-driven world. 'We didn’t want our kids isolating themselves with devices,' he explains. 'This way, they have a dedicated space to enjoy games, but it’s not the norm.'
The kitchen is a masterclass in organization and workflow. Folded stainless steel worktops and splashbacks create a sleek, seamless look, while oak-edged Fenix door fronts and bespoke aluminium handles add warmth and functionality. A moveable island doubles as a serving area or workstation, showcasing Krusin’s ability to blend form and function. 'I design spaces to be adaptable,' he says. 'They should evolve with the people who use them.'
In the bedrooms, integrated storage reigns supreme. Floor-to-ceiling wardrobes in the main suite and raised cantilever storage beds in the boys’ room keep clutter at bay. The boys’ creative spirit shines through with their Lego masterpieces displayed in acrylic cases—a nod to years of family bonding over intricate builds. 'Lego was a constant in our lives,' Krusin recalls. 'It taught us patience and creativity.'
But here’s a thought-provoking question: In a world where minimalism is often equated with calm, can a home truly be serene if it’s also filled with personal mementos and family touches? Krusin’s flat suggests it can. The walls between the kitchen and living areas are adorned with artworks by his sons, and the sanctuary-like bathroom features his own designs, including mirrored cupboards and a pedestal basin with an attached soap dispenser.
As you explore this space, it’s clear that Krusin’s design philosophy isn’t just about creating beautiful interiors—it’s about crafting environments that nurture well-being, foster connection, and adapt to life’s ever-changing demands. What do you think? Can a home truly balance tranquility and functionality, or is it an unattainable ideal? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation!
