Inside Italy's secret mosaic school

After 12 years of renting, Tali Magal and her husband, Craig Fleishman, purchased a two-bedroom apartment in Brooklyn. With twin 6-year-old daughters, Amalia and Gabriela (Mali and Gigi), Magal sought a dedicated play area, beyond the shared bedroom. Initially, she envisioned transforming a vintage armoire to store art supplies and toys, allowing for easy cleanup by simply closing the doors. However, her close friend and designer, John Rawlins, offered an alternative that maximized space and versatility. Rawlins identified two empty walls between the bathroom and laundry room as prime real estate. Instead of introducing an additional furniture piece, he proposed building directly into these walls, utilizing previously unused square footage. This concept led to the creation of a highly adaptable, Narnia-esque cabinet system, designed to serve multiple functions from imaginative play to academic tasks. The resulting built-in unit offered a seamless aesthetic when closed, appearing as a continuous backdrop to the living and dining areas. The full potential of this creative storage system became evident when the girls began Zoom kindergarten. The cabinets seamlessly transformed into a functional homeschooling setup, providing a dedicated space for learning. To facilitate smooth transitions between a streamlined appearance and a fully engaged kids' zone, Rawlins designed the cabinet doors to tuck away along the side walls when open, ensuring an unobstructed walkway. The uniform wood choice for the cabinet fronts and adjacent room doors created a cohesive, integrated look. Magal noted that the ability to close off the children's activity area at the end of the day offered a significant advantage over a traditional playroom. This feature allowed the family to "shut the chaos away," creating a clear separation between work and play, which proved particularly valuable during the pandemic for establishing a sense of relaxation and unwinding for the family. The design fostered a sense of calm and order within the home. Furthermore, the design unintentionally provided the girls with independent work areas, fostering a sense of autonomy during their daily classroom sessions. When open, the individual spaces within the cabinets created a learning "cocoon," further enhanced by noise-canceling headphones. Magal emphasized the importance of allowing the sisters to personalize their stations, fostering a sense of pride and ownership. Mali, described as meticulously organized, arranged her wall-mounted storage for school supplies, while Gigi, an artist, adorned her space with drawings and utilized an alphabet display above her desk for letter learning. This personalization encouraged individuality despite their shared living arrangements. The system's original function as a storage solution for children's supplies remains active. Extra shelves positioned above both cabinet sections accommodate toys, crafts, and general household overflow. The desks themselves are adjustable shelves, designed to adapt to the girls' growth, allowing for height adjustments as they get taller. From the twins' perspective, these new desks symbolize a step towards maturity; Gigi, for instance, takes pride in independently managing her mute and unmute functions during Zoom classes, highlighting the practical and developmental benefits of their personalized learning environment. #KidsRoomDesign #SpaceSavingSolutions #HiddenStorage #CustomCabinetry #HomeschoolingSetup #ChildrensPlayArea #BrooklynApartment #InteriorDesign #OrganizationalTips

This article highlights a newly completed penthouse apartment located in 'The Courtyard,' a residential complex in Milan designed by DFA Partners. The building itself is inspired by the city's traditional cloisters, featuring smart green spaces and a focus on urban forestation. Architect Daniele Fiori, realizing the abundance of abandoned structures in the city center, conceived a design that is entirely inward-facing and private, centered around a large garden. This green space is integral to the project's success, acting as a natural screen and reducing CO2 emissions. The building also incorporates sustainable features like green rooftops, private patios, terraces, geothermal energy from ground water, and built-in photovoltaic cells. The penthouse interiors were crafted by architect Massimiliano Camoletto for Visionnaire Art Director Eleonore Cavalli, embodying a quintessential Milanese aesthetic. The design emphasizes pure volumes, allowing natural light to flood the spaces. The apartment showcases a curated selection of furniture from Visionnaire, alongside collaborations with other notable Italian brands such as Viabizzuno, Alpi, and Ernestomeda. The selection includes designs by Mauro Lipparini, Alessandro La Spada, and younger talents like Zanellato and Bortotto, and Sara Ricciardi, creating a sophisticated blend of minimalist forms and luxurious materials. Custom-built elements, such as a mirrored modular bookcase and a metal and wood staircase, further enhance the living area. A significant feature of the living area is the custom-designed 'bioclimatic greenhouse' by Pratic. This greenhouse is home to Mediterranean plants, including olive and lemon trees, jasmine, roses, wisteria, camphor trees, and maples, strengthening the connection to nature within this urban setting. The kitchen, a collaboration with Ernestomeda, boasts a metallized lacquer finish, smoke gray etched glass, and Grigio Alpi stone. Upstairs, the penthouse includes a minimalist fitness space and two bedrooms, designed as calming sanctuaries with a muted color palette. The overall design of the penthouse celebrates Italian excellence in interior design, furniture, and sustainable architecture, creating a private and green oasis in the heart of Milan. #MilaneseInteriors #UrbanOasis #PenthouseDesign #ItalianDesign #SustainableArchitecture #GreenSpaces #LuxuryInteriors #DFAHPartners #VisionnaireFurniture

StudioTamat, a Rome-based architectural firm, has undertaken the renovation of an 80-square-metre "villino" in the heart of Rome, situated within the courtyard of a late-19th-century building on Viale di Trastevere. The project, known as RA House, was designed to create a sense of spaciousness and vibrancy for a couple who split their time between multiple residences. The intervention strategically employs elements of color, transparency, and reflection to achieve this objective within the compact three-level property. The design ethos centers on amplifying spatial dynamism while maintaining a coherent aesthetic that nods to the existing charm of the villino and the lively Trastevere neighborhood. Architects Matteo Soddu, Tommaso Amato, and Valentina Paiola spearheaded the transformation, which involved a significant rethinking of the vertical arrangement of the house. A key modification was the replacement of part of the original first-floor mezzanine with a structural glass floor. This innovative feature establishes a direct visual connection between the ground-floor living areas and the bedroom located above, promoting a more open and integrated living experience. Further enhancing the feeling of openness, a void was introduced into this new glass floor, creating a double-height lightwell. This lightwell is complemented by a new window, allowing natural light to permeate deeper into the interior. Mirrored ceilings are strategically incorporated throughout the house, contributing to an illusion of expanded space and vertical infinity. These reflective surfaces work in conjunction with the transparent elements to dematerialize boundaries and make the relatively small footprint feel significantly larger. A central blue volume acts as a functional core, extending between two levels. On the lower floor, it neatly houses the kitchen and utility spaces, while on the upper level, it accommodates an en-suite bathroom. This clever integration of services within a unified volume optimizes space and maintains visual continuity. The circulation within the house is also thoughtfully designed; a bookshelf ingeniously doubles as a space-saving staircase connecting the two main floors, while a spiral staircase provides access to the second floor, which serves as a flexible study or guest room. In addition to these structural and spatial interventions, the project meticulously restored the art-nouveau-style stained glass, which now forms an orangery at the entrance, infusing the space with shades of green, orange, and yellow. New materials are introduced with a discerning eye, including Verde Alpi marble, which is prominently featured as a podium at the base of the chestnut wood staircase and on kitchen surfaces. Fluted glass is used for partitions in the upstairs en-suite, offering a degree of privacy while maintaining light and an open feel. The kitchen also showcases metal cabinets with an ombre effect, fading from rose-gold to black. The interior is furnished with a mix of contemporary and vintage pieces, including a concrete table, vintage Thonet chairs, and a custom-made bed, providing the final touches to a sophisticated and spatially efficient urban residence. The project successfully blends historical preservation with modern design principles, creating a functional, elegant, and seemingly expansive home within its compact Roman setting. #StudioTamat #RAHouse #RomeArchitecture #VillinoRenovation #GlassFloors #MirrorCeilings #SpatialDynamism #InteriorDesign #ResidentialArchitecture

This blog post, an excerpt titled “Winter Melon Tea” from Yáng Shuāng-zǐ’s *Taiwan Travelogue*, translated by Lin King, offers a nuanced exploration of cultural identity, colonial legacy, and personal relationships in 1950s Taiwan. The narrative unfolds through the eyes of Aoyama Chizuko, a fictional Japanese writer, and her Taiwanese interpreter, Chi-chan. Their interactions are consistently framed by the historical context of Japanese colonial rule and subsequent Chinese control over Taiwan, revealing how these power dynamics shape their daily encounters. The excerpt highlights a particular visit to Taiwan’s First Girls’ School for research. Here, the subtle tensions between 'Mainlanders' and 'Islanders' are personified by two students, Ōzawa Reiko and Tân Tshiok-bi, who have been forced into proximity as a form of reconciliation after a derogatory term, 'lí-ya,' was used. This term, originally a casual address for Islanders, evolved into a slur, underscoring the deep-seated divisions and prejudices. The school's attempt to foster harmony by pairing these students ironically exposes the persistent undercurrents of colonial influence and ethnic identity. The translator, Lin King, is commended for her ability to convey these intricate emotional layers and the metafictional interplay of Japanese and Mandarin Chinese within the English text. The narrative then delves into a specific incident at a Tainan hotel where Chi-chan, despite being the interpreter for an invited dignitary, is initially subjected to rude treatment and called 'lí-ya' by a receptionist. This episode vividly illustrates the discrimination faced by Islanders. Chi-chan’s calm and strategic handling of the situation, by invoking Aoyama’s official backing, forces the hotel staff to reverse their demeanor, transforming from hostility to obsequious service. This scene emphasizes the power imbalance and the performative nature of social interactions under colonial influence, where status and connections dictate respect. Upon arriving at the First Girls’ School, Aoyama and Chi-chan are hosted by Ōzawa and Tân. Aoyama, driven by curiosity, inquires about the school’s dormitory arrangements, specifically a historical account of three students per room. This leads to a discussion about a mysterious 'mythical dimension' in one of the lavatories, a rumor that adds an element of intrigue and a potential 'haunted boarding school' trope to the narrative. Ōzawa and Tân's interactions, initially presented as a reconciliation, reveal deeper complexities. Ōzawa’s protective gestures towards Tân, such as shading her from the sun, initially suggest a genuine bond, but Aoyama’s later observations challenge this interpretation, hinting at a more intricate dynamic. The climax of the excerpt involves Aoyama and Chi-chan investigating the rumored haunted lavatory. They encounter a cryptic voice using the term 'lí-ya' and discover a photograph of Tân Tshiok-bi, leading to a late-night deduction by Chi-chan. Chi-chan's analytical prowess, compared to Sherlock Holmes, unravels the mystery: the voice was Ōzawa’s, using 'lí-ya' as an endearment, and Tân was hiding in a stall during their initial search. The photograph, a personal exchange common among graduating students, was picked up by Tân herself after Chi-chan left it as bait. This resolution reveals a secret, perhaps romantic, relationship between the two girls, framed against the backdrop of their differing identities and the school's attempts at enforced harmony. The story concludes with a reflection on shared cultural experiences, like peeling water caltrops, symbolizing the growing bond and understanding between Aoyama and Chi-chan, transcending their initial cultural and social divides. #TaiwaneseLiterature #Colonialism #CulturalIdentity #InterpersonalRelationships #MysteryFiction #LiteraryTranslation #BoardingSchool #SocialDynamics

In the Italian region of Puglia, architect Andrew Trotter undertook the transformation of a former all-girls school, closed since the 1960s, into a residential home. The property, known as Casolare Scarani, presented a unique opportunity, being smaller than the grand masserie and more characterful than typical farm outbuildings found in the area. Trotter, who has experience with various housing projects near Carovigno, identified the building's potential due to its historic charm and manageable size. The renovation began just before the 2020 pandemic when an Australian family, friends of Trotter, decided to purchase the property. Ian Coleman viewed the school in person, while his wife Maree made the decision based on photographs. The initial phase of the renovation involved a collaborative effort to strip layers of peeling paint from the arcade, revealing the original stone beneath. This arcade now forms part of a three-bedroom and one-bathroom suite on the second floor. The original garage was repurposed into a kitchen, and a stable became the dining room. For the two ground-floor bathrooms, Trotter added a white cubed extension that seamlessly integrates with the historical structure. Trotter's signature design approach, characterized by Mediterranean Minimalism, is evident throughout the renovated home. White lime plaster was extensively used on walls and ceilings, creating a soft, powdery finish that enhances the rounded arches and vaults, making them appear as if carved from limestone. This aesthetic achieves a balance between minimalist simplicity and warm comfort. The architect preserved and relaid old stones, while other areas feature Chianca porcelain tiles. Historical elements such as a star vault and a large living room fireplace were retained and integrated with new additions like shelves and wall niches. The interior decor incorporates local ceramics, crafts, antique wooden furniture, and natural textiles, all while retaining a rich patina that nods to the building's past without appearing outdated. The transformation highlights Trotter's skill in adapting historical structures for modern living while respecting their heritage. Specific changes include converting the original garage into a kitchen, the stable into a dining room, and developing a three-bedroom, one-bathroom area on the second floor, which was previously a classroom. The new cubed extension for the ground-floor bathrooms demonstrates a contemporary intervention that complements the historic core. The project successfully reimagines an obsolete educational facility into a functional and aesthetically pleasing home, blending traditional Puglian architecture with a modern, minimalist sensibility. #Puglia #Italy #AndrewTrotter #SchoolConversion #HistoricRenovation #MediterraneanMinimalism #HomeDesign #ArchitecturalTransformation #InteriorDesign

The NAP penthouse, located in the historic Palazzo Calboli dall’Aste in Forlì, Italy, represents a modern transformation of a 2,152-square-foot space by tissellistudioarchitetti. This renovation project skillfully merges historical preservation with contemporary design elements. A central feature of the penthouse is a sculptural staircase, which replaces the original and acts as both a functional and artistic focal point. Clad in golden, mirrored surfaces, the staircase reflects light throughout the double-height living area, enhancing verticality and creating dynamic visual effects through reflections. Its angular design and gleaming finish establish it as a prominent element within the home. The living area is characterized by warm wooden floors and pristine white walls, providing a neutral backdrop for custom-designed furnishings that balance simplicity with sophistication. A few steps lead down to the dining room, where reflective surfaces and vibrant accents introduce a modern sensibility while maintaining understated elegance. The kitchen features a brushed stainless steel peninsula that seamlessly integrates with a matte lacquered wood panel, ingeniously concealing kitchen functionalities for a clean, unified aesthetic. Throughout the penthouse, the selection of materials and finishes is deliberate, reinforcing the blend of historical context and modern design. Wooden flooring and white surfaces create continuity, highlighting the colorful mirrored details and bespoke furniture. The private areas of the penthouse continue this design philosophy. The primary bedroom includes a large window that opens to the adjoining bathroom, promoting a sense of openness and flow. Skylights illuminate the room with natural light, contributing to a serene atmosphere. The adjacent bathroom is distinguished by bold red and mirrored surfaces, transforming a typically functional space into an aesthetically refined area. Exposed beams in this section further enhance the architectural character, demonstrating a balance between practical function and refined design. This project presented unique challenges due to its location within a property protected by Italy’s Superintendency of Archaeology, Fine Arts, and Landscape. The design team successfully navigated these strict regulations, integrating innovative features while respecting the building’s historical integrity. Tissellistudioarchitetti, led by Filippo Tisselli and Cinzia Mondello, with Marcin Dworzynski joining in 2011, is recognized for creating spaces that combine functionality with artistic expression. The firm, with local roots, is known for incorporating international architectural trends into its projects. The NAP penthouse exemplifies their dedication to pushing design boundaries while honoring tradition, resulting in a living environment that is both distinctive and engaging. Photography for the project was provided by Marcin Dworzyński. #ItalianPenthouse #ModernArchitecture #InteriorDesign #MirroredSurfaces #HistoricPreservation #ContemporaryLiving #CustomFurnishings #ArchitecturalRenovation #Tissellistudioarchitetti

The article showcases a top-floor condominium located within the former West Queen Anne Elementary School in Seattle, a building recognized on the National Register of Historic Places since 1975. This historic school, which closed in 1981, was subsequently converted into 49 residential units in 1984, serving as a significant example of preserving surplus educational buildings. The specific condo featured is on the top floor and includes a sunny deck integrated into the roofline, making it one of 12 such units in the building. It offers a bright and spacious living environment with high ceilings. The interior has been thoroughly updated to reflect contemporary design aesthetics, featuring a galley-style kitchen equipped with high-end appliances, quartz countertops, subway tiles, and European white oak floors. A notable design element in the living room includes wall panels that subtly reference the building's historical character. These panels also cleverly conceal a twin-size Murphy bed and an entertainment center, blending modern functionality with vintage charm. The design philosophy of the condo, as described by listing agent Susan Mudarri, successfully merges the best of both historical preservation and contemporary living. The large, loft-style bedroom is illuminated by a skylight and features modern cable railings and recessed lighting, contributing to a minimalist and airy atmosphere. The unit also includes an en suite bathroom, an additional half-bath downstairs, a stacked washer and dryer, and custom closet cabinetry, ensuring practical needs are met while maintaining a clean aesthetic. The location of the condominium offers convenient access to local amenities in the Queen Anne community, such as Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream and Caffe Fiore, which are situated on the same street. The Queen Anne branch of the Seattle Public Library, also a National Register of Historic Places peer to the school, is just a block away. The neighborhood provides various recreational opportunities including pickleball courts, parks, and pizzerias, fostering a rich urban lifestyle. Historian Larry Kreisman noted that the successful conversion of the West Queen Anne Elementary School into residential units required a unique combination of factors. The community's efforts to save the building from demolition in the 1970s played a crucial role in its preservation and subsequent transformation. This communal spirit is noted to persist, with neighbors actively engaging in mutual support, such as watching packages and welcoming new residents. The article highlights that the building's historical integrity and its modern residential functionality are beautifully maintained. #PropertyWatch #QueenAnne #Condominiums #HistoricPreservation #ArchitecturalConversion #SeattleRealEstate #UrbanLiving #HomeDesign

Palazzo delle Pietre, a 15th-century building in Rome's historic Campo Marzio district, offers a unique hospitality experience that blends ancient Roman history with modern design. Owner and collector Carlo Mazzi transformed the time-worn structure, which sits atop the ancient Baths of Nero, into a collection of luxury serviced apartments. The restoration, completed over seven years, aimed to create a space that fosters a "conversation between past and future," embodying the ancient concept of _Civis Romanus sum_—that one becomes a Roman citizen through elective affinity rather than birth. The property features 10 unique apartments, ranging from intimate studios to expansive penthouses, each meticulously designed to serve as a private home for sophisticated, art-loving travelers. Mazzi's extensive collection of approximately 200 archaeological finds and 50 Renaissance-era pieces is distributed throughout the common areas and apartments, creating a continuous dialogue with contemporary design elements. Guests will find modern furnishings and lighting, such as Harry Bertoia chairs by Knoll, desks by De Padova, and Artemide lights, juxtaposed with antique wooden headboards, restored doors, and Roman stone fragments. The interior design emphasizes material richness, incorporating at least ten different types of marble, including rare book-matched slabs, alongside vaulted ceilings and travertine doorways. Textiles from Lo Studio di Beatrice Petriccione di Vadi soften the architectural geometry of stone and wood. Each apartment is fully equipped with bespoke items, including Richard Ginori porcelain, allowing guests to immerse themselves in daily Roman life while benefiting from hotel-like services such as concierge assistance, spa appointments, and event space access. Notable accommodations include the "Penthouse Apartment" and "La Corte Rooftop Terrace," a split-level residence with panoramic views and a private hammam. The property's strategic location on Via delle Coppelle places guests within walking distance of iconic Roman landmarks such as Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, and Caravaggio's masterpieces, yet it maintains a distinct neighborhood feel away from chaotic tourist hubs. This provides an authentic Roman living experience where history, art, and artisan culture converge. Palazzo delle Pietre also cultivates a vibrant cultural atmosphere through its "FraMmenti Club," which hosts monthly events, talks, and salons designed to foster social cohesion and revive the spirit of ancient Roman academies. Wellness facilities are integrated with artistic flair; the fitness room is uniquely adorned with original Andy Warhol Marilyn portraits, contrasting with the ancient surroundings. The communal wellness area features a hammam with green mosaics and a massage room clad in warm yellow marble, underscoring the property’s commitment to an artful and luxurious guest experience. The establishment aims to offer a discreet and unique hospitality choice, enabling travelers to feel like citizens rather than mere tourists in a city that continually evolves. #LuxuryTravel #RomanHistory #ModernDesign #BoutiqueHotel #ArtCollection #ItalyTravel #InteriorDesign #CulturalImmersion #PalazzoDellePietre

Artistic Tile recently hosted a design-focused journey through Northern Italy for a select group of guests, offering an exclusive look into the origins of their renowned stone materials. This trip, which took place shortly before Salone del Mobile in Milan, provided participants with an immersive experience, showcasing the quarries and factories where Artistic Tile sources its high-quality stone. The initiative was led by Artistic Tile's Zach Epstein, Lauren Cherkas, and Michael Epstein. The journey commenced at the Cornalita quarry, celebrated for its Arabescato Orobico marble. Here, guests were given firsthand insight into the meticulous process of cultivating stone, from its raw extraction to its transformation into large, heavy cubelike pieces. The family-owned brand emphasized the regional significance of their sourcing, allowing designers to witness the sheer scale and effort involved in quarrying. Following an al fresco dinner within the quarry, attendees visited a gallery displaying finished marble slabs before traveling to Verona to appreciate its historic architecture. Next, the group was given a private tour of Santamargherita, a factory located in Valpolicella. This facility specializes in creating modern interpretations of Italian terrazzo by blending marble chips with resin. The tour highlighted how various sizes and colors of marble are combined to produce diverse styles, including Artistic Tile’s exclusive Veronese Nero, Crema, and Multi Colore. The cultural and culinary aspects of Italy were also integrated into the trip, with a visit to Caseificio Montecoppe, where participants learned about the traditional production of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese. The tour then proceeded to the Carrara region, a historically significant area for marble extraction. Designers explored another distinct quarry, established by the Fabbricotti family in 1722, known for yielding unique varieties such as Zebrino Macchia Vecchia and Manhattan Dark. The culmination of the quarry visits was the Piastraio quarry, situated at an elevation of 5,000 feet in the Apuan Alps. This high-altitude location is the source of heavily brecciated ivory and grey Arabescato Corchia marble. After tracing the marble’s journey from excavation, designers visited the Savema headquarters. Here, they observed the intricate processes of cutting, finishing, and crating the stone, completing their understanding of the material's transformation from natural resource to finished product. Claus Rademacher, founder of Claus Rademacher Architects, remarked on the trip, calling it an “incredible experience” that will be long remembered, underscoring the comprehensive and memorable nature of the itinerary provided by Artistic Tile. #ArtisticTile #NorthernItaly #MarbleQuarries #StoneSourcing #ItalianDesign #DesignTrip #SaloneDelMobile #Terrazzo #CarraraMarble

The Florence Institute of Design International (FIDI) has presented a range of student projects as part of Dezeen School Shows, showcasing innovative interior design solutions for contemporary societal and cultural developments. The final-year students of the BA (Hons) Design program, in collaboration with the University of Chester, developed individual design proposals of approximately 3,000 square meters, focusing on sustainable solutions and detailed studies of building system design, lighting acoustics, and casework. One featured project, 'Gen' by Dunja Stanojevic, is an educational center designed to address the complex relationship between humans and technology. This center aims to foster informed engagement by providing accessible, future-oriented learning environments grounded in themes of serenity, evolution, and detachment. Stanojevic's design uses calm, balanced layouts, regulated natural light, modular elements, and innovative materials to create adaptable spaces that promote environmental awareness and technological literacy. Camila Belen Gallardo Andino's 'Ethos and Logos' cultural center draws inspiration from Florence's rich intellectual and artistic heritage. It is conceived as a space for critical thinking, dialogue, and reflection, bridging classical philosophy with contemporary thought. The design emphasizes communication, curiosity, and continuity through socially inviting layouts and adaptable interiors, incorporating study rooms, lecture halls, exhibition areas, and research spaces. Material choices and architectural rhythm subtly reference historical structures while supporting modern functions. Julia Laresgoiti's 'Grove House,' located in Chianti, is a culinary residence focused on reconnecting individuals with food, community, and the environment. The design integrates themes of belonging, structure, and impression through thoughtful space and furniture design. It features an atmosphere of warmth and connection, utilizing recycled and natural materials. The layout includes student dorms, a courtyard, lounge, culinary classrooms, laboratories, and an auditorium, promoting an active, communal learning experience. Lydia Hilal Deniz's 'Sen' reimagines a repurposed tram warehouse near the Arno River in Florence into an international fine art and theatre school. The project, named 'Sen' (meaning 'you' in Turkish), prioritizes individual creative growth and self-expression. The design explores themes of light, movement, and texture, using natural daylight, vibrant color accents, and tactile materials to create an inspiring atmosphere. A sculptural staircase, textured glass panels, and three-dimensional mouldings contribute to the unique interior, with organic circulation and a muted color palette guiding visitors. 'Casa Della Speranza' (House of Hope) by Kanchini Chandrasiri is a communal space designed for breast cancer patients, aiming to celebrate resilience and provide a refuge for recovery. The design incorporates themes of stability, transformation, rediscovery, and hope through spatial strategies like expansion and contraction, interplay of elements, and fluidity of layout. It uses materials that convey strength and stability, arranged in geometric patterns, and includes spaces for relaxation (fitness studios, library, therapy areas) and community activities (pottery workshop, painting studio, theatres). Valentina Salazar Munevar's 'Vita' wellness center focuses on shared well-being for young adults, promoting identity connection and community building. The design translates vitality into spatial design through four functions: energized engagement, social interaction, relaxation, and introspection. It incorporates diverse geometrical forms and textures, using conceptual lenses of dualism, authenticity, and tranquility. Located outside Florence city center, the hub offers exercise spaces, social lounges, a sensory deprivation room, and meditation and mental health services. 'Ariston' by Irina Ariza Cooper is an institute dedicated to applied arts and their historical context, situated in Florence's Santa Maria Novella district. It functions as both an educational and cultural hub, emphasizing the link between art and history. The design language, rooted in continuity, features rhythm, consistency, and movement to create intuitive pathways and visual cohesion. Carefully selected materials and forms guide visitors through an immersive sensory experience, inviting reflection on Florence's artistic heritage. Estefany Justiniano Davila's 'SOMOS' is a cultural center aimed at sharing and celebrating Latin heritage, fostering inclusivity and transcending geographical boundaries. The space reflects themes of heritage, diversity, and vibrancy through various textures and warm hues, from patterned tiled floors to bamboo-paneled ceilings. The design promotes the exchange of ideas with a fluid floor plan that includes an exhibition space, tapestry weaving studios, other art studios, and artisanal shops. It seeks to promote communal understanding and break down cultural differences. Finally, Maria Antonia Coelho Michels' 'Casa Artigiana di Firenze' aims to revitalize traditional crafts by providing a local space for teaching and learning. Located just outside Florence city center, it encourages collaboration and skill-sharing to preserve Tuscan artisanal traditions. The design incorporates themes of connection, imperfection, and human intervention, translated into enclosed spaces for community, imperfect architectural forms, and an emphasis on craftsmanship-integrated materials. The cultural hub includes artisan workshops, classrooms, courtyards, a cafe bar, and gallery space, aiming to attract tourists and create employment opportunities for local artists. Ishini Ranatunga's 'Sed-Em-Ra' transforms a former warehouse into a crisis intervention center that supports mental and physical well-being through art and nature. Drawing on biophilic design principles, the space is structured around themes of realization, discovery, connection, and acceptance. Organic spatial flows, soft transitions, and curated materials invite introspection and healing. Ribbed and perforated oak wood, neutral tones, and natural textures create a calming and grounding environment, fostering community and restoration through a sequence of transformative spaces. #FlorenceInstituteOfDesignInternational #InteriorDesign #SchoolShows #SustainableDesign #CulturalHub #EducationalCentre #AdaptiveReuse #CrisisIntervention #TuscanCrafts

The five-star Palazzo Avino, a hotel housed within a 12th-century private villa on Italy's Amalfi Coast, has undergone a significant redesign of seven of its rooms. Architect Cristina Celestino was tasked with revitalizing these spaces, drawing inspiration from the abundant gardens of Ravello and the mystical tales of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The goal was to infuse the rooms with a sense of place, blending historical elements with a contemporary aesthetic. Celestino's design approach centered on two primary concepts: the "inner garden" and the "mermaid refuge." The inner garden concept is brought to life through the integration of custom-designed terracotta flooring from her Giardino all’Italiana collection for Fornace Brioni. This flooring, which takes inspiration from the famous Boboli and Tivoli gardens, acts as a unifying element across the rooms. It is complemented by patterned onyx and marble accents, reflecting the vibrant flora of the region. The color palette employed by Celestino, featuring aquamarine, sand, and coral, directly references the natural surroundings of the Amalfi Coast. The mermaid refuge concept is expressed through iridescent mother-of-pearl finishes, which evoke the shimmering quality of the sea. Embossed headboards and intricate brass castings further contribute to this theme, adding a touch of aquatic elegance. Celestino emphasized the importance of light, colors, and material selection in her projects, aiming to create a magical atmosphere that resonates with the heritage and natural beauty of the location. She noted that her works often combine historical elements with modern aesthetics and draw forms from nature and art. Prior to Celestino's intervention, the rooms were characterized by a more traditional style, featuring glazed ceramics, white walls, Persian carpets, and antique pieces from the early 1900s. Her vision sought to imbue each room with a distinct personality, establishing a stronger connection between the interior design and the panoramic views of the gardens and the sea. This was achieved not only through the selection of materials and colors but also through the thoughtful placement of furniture. For instance, beds were strategically positioned in the center of the rooms to maximize visual impact and draw attention to the architectural elements. The bedding and the curvature of the bed frames were designed to harmonize with the dramatic arches present in the villa's architecture. Textiles played a crucial role in the renovation, with delicate natural fibers and Dedar fabric curtains featuring oversized patterns, including CC-tapis textiles adorned with large flowers and fruits native to the Italian coast, which are now part of the Avino collection. Celestino faced the challenge of balancing the hotel's existing identity and the expectations of its established clientele with her contemporary design vision. Her objective was to make these historical spaces feel more modern while simultaneously deepening their connection to the coastal landscape. The bathrooms were also updated, incorporating luxurious materials such as Rosa Portogallo marble and Rainbow onyx by Budri, further enhancing the hotel's opulent and nature-inspired aesthetic. The renovation successfully transformed the rooms, creating spaces that are both rooted in tradition and refreshingly contemporary. #AmalfiCoast #CristinaCelestino #PalazzoAvino #HotelRenovation #ItalianDesign #LuxuryTravel #InteriorDesign #HistoricalArchitecture #CoastalDecor

This lookbook highlights seven interior design projects that incorporate secret rooms hidden behind concealed wall panels, operable bookshelves, and other ingenious architectural elements. These designs introduce a whimsical and functional aspect to residential spaces, creating hidden bedrooms, bathrooms, utility rooms, and even drinks cabinets. One featured project, OntheSq in England by Irenie Studio and Studio Dera, involved the renovation of a neo-Jacobean London home. Beyond a half-sunken rear extension that houses a kitchen, the design team upcycled a bright green door frame to create a hidden drinks cabinet within a garden wall, showcasing a playful and unexpected element. In Madrid, Gon Architects designed G House, an attic apartment informed by concepts of hedonism. A central wooden volume discreetly houses the bathroom and dressing room, accessible through a hidden wall panel and a small entrance adjacent to the bathtub, demonstrating how functional spaces can be integrated seamlessly and subtly. Thomas-McBrien's Dollis Hill Avenue project in England, a London house extension, features a utility room cleverly concealed behind a wall panel. This extension incorporates a living room, a relocated kitchen and dining area, a restroom, and a boot room. A large wooden unit bordering the kitchen includes a reading nook on its exterior, while a door panel to the right of a built-in bookshelf provides access to the hidden utility room. A 1980s Stockholm apartment, renovated by Westblom Krasse Arkitektkontor, utilizes a periwinkle blue "secret door" to hide a kitchen cupboard. The design of this apartment, characterized by primary colors, employs various space-saving storage solutions and subtle additions to accommodate the owners and their twin children effectively. In Amsterdam, i29's renovation of a centuries-old Canal House includes a hidden snug accessed by a swinging bookshelf. This small room, painted entirely in blue, is designed as a relaxing space for rest or reading, adding a private and tranquil retreat within the historic home. Miriam Barrio Studio's Barcelona apartment emphasizes minimalist design and adaptable spaces. The apartment features foldable partition walls and custom built-in furniture. A key element is an operable bookshelf that functions as a secret door, leading to a sleeping area that contains two bedrooms and a bathroom, optimizing space and privacy in a sophisticated manner. Finally, The Magic Box Apartment in Barcelona, designed by Raúl Sánchez Architects, is situated on the ground level of a two-story home. To create two bedrooms for the owners' children, a large golden wardrobe was used to divide the space. This wardrobe includes a "secret passageway" door, allowing the daughters to move between their rooms in a novel and engaging way. These examples collectively illustrate how hidden doors and panels can add both functionality and a sense of wonder to residential interiors. #SecretRooms #HiddenSpaces #InteriorDesign #SpaceSaving #ResidentialArchitecture #CleverStorage #CustomFurniture

The blog post delves into the artisan workshop of Aegea Mosaici, located in Trastevere, Rome, near the Botanical Gardens. This atelier is dedicated to preserving and practicing the traditional art of mosaic making. The founder, Nadia Ridolfini, a lifelong Roman, shares her journey and expertise in this ancient craft. Her passion for mosaics developed early, leading her to work in an atelier for three years to master the techniques. She further honed her skills at the Accademia Di Belle Arti in Rome, eventually becoming an instructor. Ridolfini's work is characterized by a blend of Italian classical aesthetics and international influences, a reflection of her global experiences. Notably, she spent time in Central Africa, where she taught mosaic making to children with disabilities, emphasizing the therapeutic aspect of art. The materials used in her workshop, such as marble fragments, are sourced from diverse countries including Africa, Spain, Brazil, and China, each contributing unique textures and colors to her creations. The article highlights the historical significance of mosaics in Rome, noting their ubiquitous presence in the city's architecture. From the intricate designs adorning church interiors, like Santa Maria Maggiore and San Clemente, to the luminous mosaics of the Vatican, these artworks have consistently depicted religious narratives and preserved cultural heritage for centuries. Mosaics are also integrated into daily life, such as the mosaic numbers used for street addresses in residential areas like Monteverde Vecchio and Trastevere, a stylistic choice observed across Italy from Sorrento to Venice. Aegea Mosaici continues this tradition, offering both finished pieces and opportunities for the public to engage with the craft. The atelier hosts workshops, making the art form accessible to amateurs. Additionally, Nadia Ridolfini's creations, including A-Z and 0-9 mosaic tiles, are available to overseas customers, providing a unique way to embellish homes with traditional Italian artistry. The pieces available for purchase include large mosaic tiles with designs, working mosaic tile clocks, and individual letter and number mosaic tiles, showcasing the versatility and beauty of mosaic work for home decoration. #AegeaMosaici #MosaicArt #Trastevere #RomeArtisans #NadiaRidolfini #ItalianCraftsmanship #HomeDecor #ArtWorkshops

Bisazza, the renowned Italian tile brand, is set to unveil its latest collaboration with Dutch design duo Studio Job at Salone del Mobile. The collection features four new decorative mosaic designs: 'Perished,' 'Industry Amber,' 'Silhouette Saphir,' and 'Festoon.' These designs are characterized by their contemporary, bold, and playful nature, embodying Studio Job's distinctive signature style. The 'Perished' mosaic is the darkest of the collection, showcasing neo-Gothic themes with digital motifs of animal skeletons. It is available in three color variations: perished white (white on black), perished rose gold (rose gold on a brown field), and perished blue (white on a blue field). This design reflects a more macabre aesthetic, consistent with some of Studio Job's earlier works. In contrast, 'Industry Amber' draws inspiration from Britain's Industrial Revolution, featuring symbolic objects from the 1800s such as steam engines, wheels, work tools, and industrial buildings. This design employs warm amber shades against a black background, creating a sense of depth and a decidedly modern feel, departing from the more somber tones of 'Perished.' The most playful of the new designs is 'Silhouette Saphir,' which incorporates everyday objects and figures overlapping against a vibrant cerulean background. This creates a three-dimensional, hyper-decorated pattern that is a hallmark of the Antwerp-based duo's work. Rosella Bisazza, the tile brand's director of communications and ambassador, highlights that this series not only demonstrates Studio Job's characteristic attention to detail, freedom of expression, and combination of 2D and 3D elements but also their proficiency in using mosaic as a flexible and expressive medium. Finally, 'Festoon' will also be introduced during Fuorisalone 2016 at Bisazza's Milanese flagship store. This design is described as a refined motif featuring soft gold ribbons gracefully intersecting upon a white background. The collection is anticipated to offer diverse aesthetic options, from the dark and gothic to the industrial and playful, showcasing the versatility and artistic vision of Studio Job in their collaboration with Bisazza. The event at Salone del Mobile will provide a comprehensive look at these innovative mosaic patterns. #StudioJob #Bisazza #SaloneDelMobile #MosaicDesign #TileCollection #DutchDesign #InteriorDesign #MilanDesignWeek #DecorativeMosaics