Hidden in the heart of Ljubljana’s old town lies an apartment that could be described as a work of art by artist Kaja Skrt and concert pianist Ivan Skrt. When they first crossed the threshold of this historic home, they were met with a blank canvas—a space with no story. Today, every corner tells its own tale, infused with color, texture, and personal details that reflect their life and creativity. They named it Mondo Diverso, which translates to “a different world.” And that’s exactly what it is. A small, unique world in the midst of vibrant Ljubljana.
How would you describe your apartment?
This apartment is a special place for us—like a different world, a place to escape the hustle of the city. We searched for a long time for the right name because we felt it was more than just a living space. One day, while walking through Ljubljana on a grey day, watching people rush by, we saw a poster that read “Mondo Diverso.” That was it—the perfect contrast to the world around us. Warm, personal, different.
When you step through the door, a sense of calm embraces you. Sometimes we miss the feeling from childhood—when you could see through the windows into homes, with warm lights, kitchen tables, conversations. Nowadays, so much feels sterile, blurred, digital. But we try to make our home the opposite—a space of genuine closeness, light, and authentic connection.
Is this your own apartment? What was it like before?
It was originally a family apartment—a sort of inherited space waiting for a new life. When we first entered, it was quite dark. The tiles were dark brown, the walls were plain white, without warmth or character.
Still, we saw its potential—as a blank canvas. We didn’t have a pre-made plan or a grand architectural vision. Everything happened spontaneously, with a lot of observation, listening to the space, and reacting to the moment. Many evenings after work, we sat by the computer, searching for ideas, sketching concepts, comparing materials, and letting the space guide us.
Our decisions were intuitive, free from pressure about how something “should” look. Instead of following trends, we followed our feelings—how the space made us feel, what brought us peace, where we wanted to spend time, where the light fell. Slowly, the apartment began to transform and take shape.
Creating this home was a creative process for us. We both love aesthetics, creativity, and detail, so we focused on every little thing. Today, that makes it all the more precious—everything here is the result of thoughtful decisions that reflect how we live.
How long did the renovation take?
Symbolically, we’d say it took about as long as a pregnancy—nine months. It wasn’t a typical renovation with a set plan, an architect, or visual renderings. We did everything ourselves, gradually, day by day, with a lot of feeling and improvisation.
In the beginning, all we had was a couch. Each day we did a little something. Sometimes that meant just a good coffee and a chat about the next step. Other days we painted the ceiling. We painted all the walls ourselves, multiple times, to find the right tone and feeling. Back then, we didn’t use any programs or 3D previews. Today, you can just upload a photo to an app and see how it’ll look. But we tested everything live.
Every decision was a mix of an idea and a real-world test. Sometimes we thought something would be great, and it wasn’t. Other times, ideas emerged spontaneously while painting.
It was exhausting, but also an incredibly creative time. Looking back now, it was the process itself that meant the most—because we truly lived, felt, and created every corner together.
What inspired the interior design?
The main inspiration was us.
For instance, at one point the space felt overloaded with color. We realized we needed something to balance it. So we brought in white. We carried that through to the bathroom and laid a white carpet across the entire kitchen. The white elements became a counterbalance to the vibrant energy and gave the space a breath of fresh air.
In the first room, we kept wondering what was missing. It has a lowered ceiling and no windows, creating a feeling of stillness, like there was no life there. And then suddenly—an idea! Trees! So simple, yet so powerful. I sawed the logs myself, we bought artificial branches, and placed them in the room. Suddenly, it breathed—as if nature had returned to the space.
Did you have a vision from the beginning, or did it evolve over time?
Our process didn’t follow a preset style or aesthetic—it evolved naturally. Sometimes a mistake pushed us forward; other times it was a feeling that something was missing. But we always tried to find balance.
We believe it’s better to just start—without overanalyzing or fearing mistakes. What matters is that doubt doesn’t stop you, that you don’t burn out before you even begin, and that you’re not disappointed if things don’t work out immediately.
It’s easier when you do things bit by bit. Sleep on some decisions, give the space time to speak to you. More than a big idea, what’s important is consistency—being present, moving through the space, feeling it. That way, things come together organically and honestly.
It’s like music—you can’t force a composition. If something’s inside you, it will express itself eventually. The same is true for designing a space. The key is to enjoy what you’re doing. Joy is the energy that powers everything. And when you have it, anything is possible.
What was the biggest challenge?
The first room was the biggest challenge. Nothing felt right there—whatever we tried just didn’t work. We kept searching for the right energy, the right feeling to breathe life into the space and make it pleasant. It was a process of perseverance and discovery. But that challenge taught us a lot about the importance of listening to the space and not rushing toward final solutions.
Was the apartment always intended for rental, or did that decision come later?
Yes, we renovated it with the idea of renting it out someday. That goal allowed us to invest more carefully and with higher quality. It’s not meant for everyday living, but for something special—a short retreat, a few days when someone can fully immerse in the details, feel the atmosphere, and let the space truly affect them.
We’ve been renting it out for a little over a year now. We admit, it was very hard to let go at first. We invested so much of ourselves, and our concept is based on the belief that when you create something beautiful, it invites respect. And that’s exactly what’s happening. The people who come are gentle with the space, respectful and open. The energy keeps circulating—with every new guest, the space comes alive again. And that means a lot to us.
How did you choose the furniture?
Most of the furniture is second-hand. We love exploring Italian flea markets, where we always find something special—pieces with character, a story, and a patina of time. We got the couch from a friend, and the coffee table is homemade, giving it extra personal value.
Sometimes you love a piece of furniture, but it just doesn’t fit in the space. We’ve learned to listen to the space—what it needs, what it can hold, what it lacks. Nothing is forced. Everything is the result of a search for balance between aesthetics, function, and the energy an object brings with it.
What’s your guilty pleasure in decorating?
Definitely plants. If it were up to us, we’d make a real jungle! But the reality of the apartment is that there simply isn’t enough light. So we’ve limited our botanical corner to the hallway, where a bit of natural light still reaches the pots.
What’s your favorite corner of the apartment—and why?
Honestly, we don’t have one. That question is like asking which color or song is our favorite—we just can’t choose. Each part of the apartment has its own character, purpose, and atmosphere. And together, they form a whole. Just like in music—one note alone doesn’t mean much, but when you combine them in harmony, something special emerges.
What would you advise someone wanting to decorate their home in a similar style?
First—if you enjoy decorating and you know what truly draws you in, you’re already on the right path. It’s important to feel that energy and follow it. Things don’t have to be perfect from the start. Do one thing, don’t give up, and don’t stress.
If you get stuck or make a mistake, don’t treat it like the end of the world. Fix it with something else, add a counterbalance or a new element—and gradually, with feeling, everything will fall into place. The key is to keep going and let joy be your companion.
And if it all feels too overwhelming—you can always call us for help! 😉
What are your next projects?
Right now, we’re working on furnishing a new wooden house, which we want to fill with life and warmth. We’re also working on an apartment in Trieste. Our goal is to create spaces that aren’t just beautifully decorated, but where people can truly feel the soul of a home. We get extra motivation when a client is thrilled with the result.
What does “home” mean to you?
Home, to us, is a place where you feel safe and at ease. It’s where nothing disturbs you, where there’s peace and no conflict. There are no secrets, no distractions—just a sense of freedom and relaxation. That’s why home is more than just a place; it’s a safe haven where you can fully be yourself.
