“Home idea with IKEA”: makeovers at the Vilnius City Crisis Centre

This week, interior designer Anastasija is visiting the Vilnius City Crisis Centre with an important mission: to refresh the premises so that families affected by violence can safely begin a new chapter in their lives. Everything starts with the first impression a space leaves on its future residents. That’s why our goal is to create a warm and supportive interior, not only in the family rooms but also in the reception area, where sensitive conversations take place and newcomers are introduced to the centre’s rules and procedures.

Interior designer‘s task:

• Design a multifunctional reception area that serves both as a meeting room for the newly arrived crisis centre residents and as a workspace for staff.
• Use colours and textiles to create a neutral, calming environment that conveys a sense of safety and security.
• Liven up the space and soften the strict lines of the office with plants, including both floor-standing and hanging varieties.
• Set up a versatile room for mothers and children, designed to meet everyday family needs and suitable for use throughout the day – for work, rest, play, meals, sleep, and more.

Spot the transformation!

The office space is clearly divided into two areas: a functional work zone and a separate meeting area. The layout of the room and the furniture have been arranged so that visiting families can enter comfortably, leaving enough space even for a baby stroller. The meeting table is positioned in the centre of the room, creating a neutral focal point for conversations, helping to reduce tension and foster a more personal, relaxed atmosphere. For the workstations, we chose ergonomic desks, which are height-adjustable, allowing staff to work comfortably either sitting or standing.

More storage space. Compact cabinets were added for two key reasons: they make documents and office supplies easily accessible, and they keep the room visually uncluttered and tidy. Open shelving also plays an important role, adding life to the space through plants or decorative items.

Lighting. Stylish, modern lamps emphasise the professional yet cosy character of the interior. Their adjustable direction makes them suitable for both general and task lighting, whether staff are working or speaking with visitors.

The modular sofa provides a perfect spot for short breaks, quiet conversations, or waiting guests. Its shape and soft seating help ease tension and give the space a cosy, homely feel—something especially important during first meetings.

Mother and children’s room

Interior designer Anastasija planned the 24 m² room so that a mother, her children, and even a baby can live safely and comfortably. The space is divided into four main zones to maintain order and support daily routines around the clock: a sleeping area for the children, a sofa-bed for the mother’s rest, a dining and social area, and a compact entrance area with storage solutions.

• At the heart of the room is the round table, suitable for eating, working, doing homework or engaging in creative activities.
• The wardrobe is designed to hold both personal belongings and essential household appliances. A small fridge and microwave are integrated inside, allowing meals to be prepared privately without leaving the room.
• For the children, we chose the bunk bed, which takes up less floor space than two standard beds, leaving more room for play.
• A brightly coloured baby corner with the cot has been created, alongside separate drawing, play and reading areas for older children.
• The sofa-bed is perfect for sleeping at night and doubles as an additional seating area during the day.

“In a small room, create zones not with walls, but with rugs and lighting. It’s the easiest and fastest way to clearly define different areas within the space.”

Anastasija Rogačevska, IKEA interior designer

Turning shelter into home

We believe that home, even the temporary one, has to be a safe and comfortable place. To improve the living conditions of the families affected by the domestic violence, we have done a series of makeovers at crisis centres in Vilnius and Kaunas.