An Art Nouveau apartment in Catania converted to hospitality

This article highlights the comprehensive renovation and enlargement of a 2,583-square-foot apartment situated on the top two floors of a historic building in Rome. The project, undertaken by local firm Studio Strato, aimed to enhance the apartment's connection to its outdoor surroundings, specifically a lush green park. The redesign emphasizes preserving elements that narrate the building's history, such as exposed beams and pillars, which were intentionally left visible to showcase the restoration process and the building's historical layers. The renovation began with the demolition of existing internal walls to create a more open and integrated living space. This transformation resulted in a single, expansive area that combines the living and dining functions. The interior aesthetic was significantly brightened with fresh white walls and complemented by larch parquet flooring. A notable feature is a sleek black fireplace, contributing to an overall airy and modern environment. Central to the common area is a striking pink staircase, which serves both a functional purpose, connecting the lower level to the master bedroom above, and an aesthetic one, visually delineating the living and dining zones. To improve the apartment's connection to the outdoors and maximize natural light, large, expansive windows were installed. These windows not only flood the interiors with sunlight but also offer panoramic views of the adjacent park. The dining area, located next to the living lounge, provides direct access to a balcony, further blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living. The kitchen also underwent a modern upgrade, now equipped with stainless steel appliances, reflecting a contemporary design approach. Vincenzo Tattolo, co-founder of Studio Strato, articulated the design intent as enriching the house with a strong graphic look. This was achieved through specific material choices, such as using masonite for the walls of the master bedroom and the widest wall in the kitchen, adding a distinctive texture and visual interest. The master bathroom features Fornace Brioni tiles on both the floor and walls, contributing to a cohesive and sophisticated design. Similarly, the daughter's bathroom is adorned with dotted mosaic tiles, also from Fornace Brioni, ensuring design continuity and quality throughout the apartment. The article includes floor plans of both the lower and upper levels, providing a comprehensive overview of the spatial arrangement and how the renovation optimized the flow and functionality of the apartment. The project successfully blends historical preservation with modern design elements, creating a bright, open, and graphically rich living space that is well-connected to its Roman setting. #apartmentRenovation #romanArchitecture #interiorDesign #studioStrato #modernLiving #historicBuilding #openConcept #pinkStaircase #italianDesign

The article details the renovation of Unit 622, an apartment located within Montreal's historic Habitat 67 housing complex. Designed by the interior and industrial design firm Rainville Sangaré, the project transformed the space into a bright, open, and modern home. The renovation focused on simple lines, material integrity, and a minimalist aesthetic, drawing inspiration from the Brutalist architectural style of Habitat 67 itself. The original complex, conceived by Israeli-Canadian architect Moshe Safdie in the 1960s, aimed to provide affordable urban living through 158 stacked, prefabricated concrete units. Unit 622 features a unique T-shaped layout formed by two prefab blocks. A key aspect of the renovation involved preserving the concrete junction where these two volumes meet, leaving it exposed as an homage to the apartment's history, complete with original construction markings. The design choices were also influenced by Habitat 67's location on the Saint-Laurence River, particularly the challenging winter conditions. Rainville Sangaré opted for a minimal material and color palette, incorporating raw finishes like steel and concrete throughout the space to enhance the natural light and reflect the building's robust character. The living room features built-in shelves framing the window, and custom-made ventilation grids were installed, reflecting the owners' interest in local craft and design. A notable artistic element is a commissioned piece by local artist James Kennedy, mounted on a sliding door that conceals the television. The apartment is entirely outfitted with Sangaré’s UNITÉ lighting, a collection inspired by Habitat 67's rectangular prefab blocks. The kitchen, designed for efficiency, was crafted by local brand À Hauteur d’homme. The guest room is designed for versatility, featuring a hideaway bed that allows the space to function as an office, also lit by Sangaré’s UNITÉ lighting. The main bedroom is predominantly oak, with a custom-designed bed and nightstand, and also features lighting by Sangaré. Streamlined oak panels are used for the wardrobe. In contrast to the minimalist living areas, the bathrooms introduce color and intriguing finishes, including a dichroic glass shower divider that changes color under different lighting conditions. Concrete tiles in the bathrooms further reference the building's Brutalist origins. The renovation successfully marries contemporary design with the historical and architectural integrity of Habitat 67, creating a sophisticated and functional living space. #Habitat67 #MontrealRenovation #ModernApartment #BrutalistArchitecture #MinimalistDesign #InteriorDesign #PrefabHomes #RainvilleSangaré

Architect Tommaso Spinzi, originally from Como, Italy, and with a diverse international professional background, returned to Milan in 2018. There, he undertook the renovation of a 2,000-square-foot former workplace near the city center, converting it into his personal loft. The space, which he describes as a “white canvas,” previously served as a stable for postal service horses in the late 1800s before becoming an office. Spinzi's design approach for the ground-floor space involved preserving its industrial characteristics, such as tall multi-paned windows, concrete floors, and an open layout, while integrating softer elements, both vintage and new. His primary architectural alteration involved creating a passage beneath an existing mezzanine to establish a dining area, with the mezzanine itself repurposed into his bedroom. The loft's functional areas, including the kitchen, bathroom, living and dining spaces, library, and a garage for his 1983 Porsche 911SC, flow seamlessly, loosely defined by furniture arrangements. The design is characterized by an interplay of materials and textures, combining vintage and contemporary pieces, many of which are Spinzi's own creations. The thoughtful placement of artwork and strategic use of green accents, which Spinzi identifies as his favorite color, further personalize the space. Green is applied to walls, in upholstered furniture, and through foliage compositions, bringing natural elements indoors. A central theme in Spinzi's design philosophy is the integration of vintage furniture, which he uses to promote upcycling and celebrate Italian craftsmanship. For example, in the library, a 1960s Afra and Tobia Scarpa sofa in tobacco leather is paired with a vintage armchair, re-covered by Spinzi in emerald velvet, and his own marble Medusa stool. The space also features a 1970s Italian vanity mirror and one of Spinzi's abstract paintings. He emphasizes selecting pieces for their aesthetic value and Italian origin, rather than solely their designer provenance, incorporating several anonymous yet impactful items. The living area showcases this approach with shapely burnt orange-upholstered armchairs and a notable wooden soldier sculpture, whose origins are unknown but contribute significantly to the aesthetic. These are complemented by a 1970s Mario Bellini Le Bambole sofa, a drawing by Alessandro Paglia, and Spinzi's Origini console and cocktail table, both topped with greige terrazzo-like Ceppo. Spinzi, who has a preference for stone and metal, meticulously explores and enhances the inherent qualities of various materials in his work. His creations have been exhibited at the Rossana Orlandi Gallery in Milan, and his designs, along with curated vintage finds, are available through his online shop. The apartment also features light fixtures made of Murano glass, such as a large 1970s Venini chandelier in the bedroom, and a sculpture composed of stacked marble samples. Spinzi’s philosophy extends to the broader context of urban development, advocating for the repurposing of old structures rather than demolition and new construction. He views this as a way to respect the historical integrity and “soul” of buildings and cities, while simultaneously minimizing environmental impact. This conscious approach aligns contemporary concerns with enduring Italian design traditions, celebrating the resilience of Milan's architectural heritage, from its grand palazzi to industrial complexes. #MilanApartment #LoftConversion #TommasoSpinzi #ItalianDesign #VintageFurniture #IndustrialInterior #UpcyclingDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #InteriorDesign #SustainableDesign

The article details the transformation of a 15th-century palace in Orvieto, Italy, into a nine-key boutique hotel named Palazzo Petrvs. Local hotelier Raffaele Tysserand commissioned Naples-based architect Giuliano Andrea dell’Uva, founder of his namesake firm, to undertake the renovation. The palace, once owned by the wealthy notary Petrvs Facienus, had been abandoned for a considerable period before its conversion. The design process for the hotel involved extensive research, with dell'Uva and Tysserand exploring historical buildings and gardens in the surrounding area to inform their approach. The palace's location, adjacent to the 14th-century Duomo di Orvieto, served as a primary source of inspiration for the hotel's interior design, particularly its distinctive facade of alternating white travertine and black basalt stripes. Dell'Uva's design concept for Palazzo Petrvs is characterized by a playful yet sensitive approach that aims to honor the building's historical context while offering a contemporary luxury experience. Upon peeling back 19th-century renovations, original frescoes and Renaissance-era painted wood ceilings were discovered. The architect meticulously restored these historical details and returned rooms to their original proportions. Where frescoes were absent, walls were finished with natural clay plaster and floors were laid with terra-cotta, referencing the city's Etruscan heritage and artisan traditions. This palette provides a warm, soft backdrop for a curated mix of custom and vintage Italian and Nordic furnishings, creating a studied exercise in contrast. The lobby serves as a central point, featuring the original massive stone fireplace. Dell'Uva designed a blocky, double-sided sofa upholstered in forest green fabric, complemented by fringed Hans-Agne Jakobsson table lamps from 1950. Dynamically contemporary brass-and-glass sconces flank the hearth, while a purpose-built dining table with a black-and-white striped base and Hans Wegner seating, a Marco Zanuso armchair, and a Carlo Scarpa console, all vintage, add to the eclectic yet cohesive aesthetic. Many guest rooms incorporate a striped motif, directly referencing the Duomo's facade. This includes an en-suite bathtub constructed from black and white banded terra-cotta beneath a 1500-era coffered ceiling, custom beds with striped linen headboards and skirts, and floors laid with locally handmade terra-cotta tiles in a striped pattern, particularly prominent in the stair leading to the large suite in the ancient tower. The only exception to the striped motif is Coro, the hotel's restaurant, which occupies a deconsecrated 15th-century church adjoining the main building. Dell'Uva preserved its stacked stone walls, adorning them with works by Milanese artist Michele Guido. The restaurant is furnished with recycled-wood tables, upholstered benches, and more Wegner chairs, illuminated by spindly wrought-iron candelabras. Modern amenities, including generous contemporary bathrooms, were integrated for guest comfort. New waxed-iron partitions with openings for windows and doorways were installed to preserve original stone portals and wooden doors. The hotel's courtyard, inspired by local palace gardens and traditional riads, features a working fountain, custom terra-cotta and iron benches with built-in planters, wrought-iron café tables with earth-red cushions, and local Renaissance-era greenery, creating an oasis that blends historical inspiration with new design elements. #BoutiqueHotel #HistoricRenovation #ItalianArchitecture #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHospitality #OrvietoItaly #GiulianoAndreaDellUva #PalazzoPetrvs #Restoration

STUDIOTAMAT undertook a comprehensive renovation of Casa Rude, a 120-square-meter Brutalist-inspired apartment with a 40-square-meter terrace located in the suburbs of Rome, specifically in Tor de’ Cenci. This project was designed for a lawyer couple seeking a departure from their previous small city apartments, desiring a residence filled with natural light, original character, and modern amenities, all while overlooking the Castelporziano Nature Reserve, providing both wooded and sea views. The design philosophy centered on enhancing the distinctive features of the 1980s terraced building, aiming to re-establish spatial fluidity and highlight existing materials and details as a foundation for a new aesthetic vision. The main living area was conceived as an open-plan loft, characterized by unfinished walls and exposed concrete elements from the building's support structure, which serve to visually interconnect the various spaces. This raw, Brutalist foundation is harmoniously combined with a diverse palette of tones, textures, and materials, creating a visually engaging environment. The coarse texture of terracotta tiles on the oval kitchen island and the concrete pillars provides a striking contrast with the smooth, elegant Patagonia marble countertops that link these elements. Custom design pieces are integrated throughout the apartment, such as a dining table featuring a Shou sugi treated wood top, supported by a black base and a glossy red ceramic leg, introducing a sleek, modern touch. Functionality is addressed through a large, birch wood cube that acts as a multifunctional unit, ingeniously concealing a pantry, offering coat storage, providing additional storage solutions, and housing a television. In the home office area, a wall constructed from perforated bricks facilitates the passage of natural light while maintaining a subtle separation from the living room. A custom-designed desk extends from built-in shelves and is supported by a circular red wheel, which echoes the design element of the dining table and allows the desk to be repositioned along a track. A pivoting door strategically separates the communal areas from the private sleeping quarters, which include a main bedroom with an en-suite bathroom and a guest room. Within the primary bedroom, ribbed glass sliding doors offer a balance of privacy and natural light for the bathroom space. The terrace, an expansive outdoor area, is equipped with an outdoor kitchen, multiple seating zones, a dining area, and an outdoor shower, all positioned to maximize the enjoyment of sunset views. #BrutalistArchitecture #ApartmentRenovation #RomeInteriors #STUDIOTAMAT #ModernDesign #InteriorArchitecture #CustomFurniture #OutdoorLiving #PatagoniaMarble

La Macchina Studio, led by cofounders Gianni Puri and Enrica Siracusa, undertook the renovation of an 807-square-foot apartment in Rome, Italy, originally built in the 1950s. The project aimed to transform the space for a young couple, drawing inspiration from diverse artistic fields including cinema, painting, and illustration, citing influences ranging from the Sienese School and David Lynch to Katsumi Komagata and Prince. This eclectic approach informed the studio's design philosophy, focusing on creating a theatrical and surreal environment within the residential setting. The renovation involved the introduction of new materials to complement the existing structure. Botticino marble and brick red microcement were integrated throughout the apartment, providing a contemporary foundation. These materials were juxtaposed with bold color accents, such as a prominent blue arched door in the main living area. This door serves as a visual focal point and a transition point, leading into the bedroom and embodying the studio's desire to incorporate unexpected elements. A key design objective was to instill a sense of magic and playfulness into everyday living spaces. The architects achieved this by employing a strategy of color contrasts, graphic motifs, and deliberate “incursions” of surprising elements. The intention was to enhance the irreverent and surreal nature of the architectural narrative, making the apartment feel dynamic and engaging. This approach is evident in the selection of furnishings and decorative items. The living and dining areas feature a combination of classic and contemporary design pieces. Venetian terrazzo flooring forms a consistent base across these spaces. Furnishings include Mariolina chairs by Enzo Mari for Magis and a Tulip dining table by Eero Saarinen for Knoll. Lighting fixtures such as the Cirque by Louis Poulsen add to the curated ambiance. In the kitchen, Dioscuri 14 lamps by Artemide contribute to the functional yet stylish illumination. The classic blue arched door, made of lacquer wood, stands out as a signature element, reinforcing the playful design language. Further details within the apartment demonstrate the studio's comprehensive design vision. A Divano Goto sofa by Disegno Doppio and a Colonna stool by Ettore Sottsass for Kartell are placed in communal areas, alongside a painting created by La Macchina Studio itself. Another area features a Componibili side table by Anna Castelli Ferrieri for Kartell, a vintage chair from the 1950s, and an illustration titled “Birds” by Gianni Puri, highlighting his dual role as an architect and illustrator. The bedroom features brick red microcement flooring and a Bright Modeco 20 pendant by Nordic Tales, maintaining the cohesive material and color palette. In the bathroom, mosaic wall coverings in ceramic, light grey microcement flooring, and a Bonola 50 bathroom sink by Ceramica Flaminia complete the thoughtful renovation. #ApartmentRenovation #RomeDesign #LaMacchinaStudio #InteriorDesign #MidCenturyModern #ColorContrast #ArchitecturalRenovation #PlayfulDesign #ItalianArchitecture

La Macchina Studio, an Italian architecture firm, recently completed the renovation of a 1950s one-bedroom apartment in Rome's Appio Latino quarter, named 'Retroscena.' The project focused on restoring original Venetian terrazzo floors while incorporating bold colors and theatrical elements to create a dynamic living space. Studio founders Gianni Puri and Enrica Siracusa aimed to enhance the apartment's "irreverent and surreal nature" by playing with color contrasts, graphic motifs, and unexpected design elements, likening the space to a "surreal set where reality and fiction coexist in a quasi-theatrical scene." The renovation began with the meticulous restoration of the apartment's existing terrazzo floors, with local craftsmen enlisted to bring them back to their original state. To provide a neutral backdrop for the vibrant additions, walls and certain architectural features were painted in bright white. Against this white canvas, primary colors were introduced to create striking visual accents. For instance, an arched doorway and a low, mid-century style cabinet in the living area are painted a bright blue. A pair of zesty lemon-yellow fabric curtains can be drawn to partition the living area from the kitchen diner and to provide privacy for the balcony door. The blue-lacquered wooden archway, extending almost a meter from the wall, serves to screen the kitchen from the hallway's view and defines the entrance to the bedroom. A red wall-hanging above the sofa further contributes to the primary color palette. The bathroom was conceived as a two-room space. The first section, featuring a bath and shower, is encased in white square ceramic tiles with dark grouting, forming a graphic check mosaic. A pointy arched doorway leads to the second part of the bathroom, which houses a toilet, bidet, and a sink framed by the arch. Peacock-blue enamelled walls and a dimmable ring light mirror above the sink amplify the theatrical aesthetic within this private space. In the bedroom, a brick-red micro cement treatment applied by La Macchina Studio gives the floor a ruddy hue, offering a warmer, softer contrast to the bolder living areas. A low-hanging orb-style pendant light and peach velvet curtains further contribute to this softer ambiance. The entryway also features pinkish cement flooring, differentiating it from the rest of the apartment. Built-in white wardrobes in the hallway cleverly conceal a hidden room, which functions as a study, maximizing the apartment's functional space. La Macchina Studio, founded in 2013 by Puri and Siracusa in Rome, has previously undertaken other notable renovations in the city, including an apartment with terracotta-colored walls and another featuring a reading den with a porthole-style cutout. This Retroscena project showcases their distinctive approach to residential interior design, blending historical elements with contemporary, playful interventions. #ApartmentRenovation #RomeArchitecture #LaMacchinaStudio #InteriorDesign #TerrazzoFloors #ColorfulInteriors #MidCenturyApartment #ArchitecturalRestoration #ResidentialDesign

Interior designer Vanessa Alexander of Alexander Design has completed a 4,500-square-foot loft conversion in Venice, California, located in a building originally constructed in 1926 for a telephone company. The penthouse-level residence, which also features a roof garden, showcases restored gray concrete floors and zinc windows, establishing a rugged and masculine aesthetic. The three floors below the penthouse are currently being developed by Alexander Design for additional office and gallery spaces. Despite the loft's expansive open layout, Alexander focused on creating a sense of intimacy by incorporating various compartments and separated seating areas to reduce the perceived scale of the interior. The design palette is characterized by dark tones, including blacks and grays, complemented by warm, weathered leathers in saddle and cognac, and organic textural linens. This dark palette works in conjunction with the abundant natural light, maintaining the space's inherent openness while adding depth and sophistication. Industrial influences extend throughout the home, from the living areas to the kitchen. In the kitchen, wall shelving is suspended from the ceiling to emphasize the extreme ceiling heights and to echo the design of the zinc windows. Alexander collaborated with local artisanal furniture brand Stahl + Band and design/build studio PSS Design Cult to construct the kitchen, which features a large island counter with concrete poured on-site. The faucets in the kitchen, made from copper pipe fittings, serve as a nod to the building's historical industrial roots. The dining area incorporates massive custom-made mirrors with metallic frames, strategically placed to provide privacy while also creating dynamic light and shadow effects. The bedroom features a bed platform crafted from reclaimed wood and a custom leather headboard. This bed structure strategically separates the bathroom from the sitting areas and is oriented towards a large picture window that offers views of the Santa Monica Pier and the Malibu Coastline. The bedroom is furnished with bedding by Society Linen, a striped throw by Tenfold from The Line, and vintage embroidered textile pillows. The rooftop garden provides an outdoor sanctuary with an olive tree, a Bocce court, an outdoor kitchen, a yoga platform, and a dining area shaded by a reed and metal pergola structure built by PSS Design Cult. The bathroom includes an oversized, custom-made concrete trough on a bronze base, paired with industrial copper piping and taps. A mirror, suspended from the ceiling by braided leather straps, was manufactured by PSS Design Cult, and the oval bathtub is from NativeStone. A vintage Beni Ourain rug from Mehraban adds a touch of warmth to the bathroom. The interior design thoughtfully integrates Danish antiques, including pieces by Poul Henningsen, Arne Jacobsen, and Ditto Heath, alongside textiles and furniture from Le Corbusier. Alexander also incorporated items from her own custom furniture collection. The project involved collaborations with builders PSS Design Cult, Stahl + Band, and Spark and Dowel. #PenthouseConversion #IndustrialDesign #VeniceCalifornia #LoftLiving #AlexanderDesign #VintageFurniture #RooftopGarden #HistoricBuildingRenovation

This blog post explores a meticulously designed 968-square-foot duplex apartment in Milan, conceived by the architectural and interior design firm 23bassi. The apartment, situated on the penthouse level of a new building, demonstrates how innovative design solutions can transform a compact space into a highly functional and aesthetically rich home. The primary focus of the design revolves around maximizing space and integrating diverse aesthetic influences, ranging from 1980s elements to classic modern design pieces. The apartment's layout is unusual, characterized by its narrow and long structure, but benefits from abundant natural light provided by large windows. Central to the apartment's ingenious design is a disappearing round bed by Lago, a discontinued model, which serves as the focal point of the sleeping area. This bed appears to float, anchored only by a beam of light, and can be concealed behind an accordion-like metal fabric folding door by Dooor, a company famously associated with designer Gio Ponti. This design choice creates a futuristic and versatile sleeping nook that can be completely screened off and boasts its own ventilation system when closed. The sleeping area also incorporates Artemide’s Alphabet of Light lamp and practical shelving, all contributing to an 80s-inspired ambiance within this corner of the apartment. Complementing this modern feature is a Mezzachimera floor lamp by Vico Magistretti for Artemide, showcasing a blend of eras and styles. The apartment's entrance leads to a hallway equipped with custom-designed closets for practical storage, including a coat rack. An arched doorway opens into the living area, where custom cabinetry continues to seamlessly integrate essential kitchen appliances like the refrigerator and a dish drying rack. The walls in this section are adorned with a vibrant Osborne & Little wallpaper, creating a cohesive and lively aesthetic. The living space is furnished with iconic pieces from renowned designers, such as the Camaleonda sofa by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia, Superleggera chairs by Gio Ponti for Cassina, and the Vidun glass-topped table by Vico Magistretti for De Padova. Lighting fixtures throughout the apartment are also notable, featuring works from Davide Groppi, Paolo Ulian for Dilmos, and Flos. A recurring design motif across the apartment is the use of black iron frames, which delineate doors, arches, and skirting boards, adding a graphic and dramatic touch. This element is particularly striking in the bathroom area, where a series of iron and ribbed glass doors create an intricate geometric composition, enhancing the visual appeal and functionality of the service spaces. The European oak parquet flooring is accentuated with a circular white marble inlay, further highlighting these areas. The bathroom itself combines contemporary elements, such as tiles by Konstantin Grcic for Mutina, with an antique cabinet from Antichità Moglia, reflecting the homeowner’s passion for antiques. The apartment extends vertically to a terrace level, accessed via a custom white-painted iron spiral staircase. This upper level comprises an additional 484 square feet of outdoor living space. A glass-floored and walled enclosure allows natural light to filter into the living area below and serves as a small vestibule to the outdoor space. The terrace offers city views and features a small infinity pool. It is furnished with pieces from leading contemporary designers like Le Corbusier, Charlotte Perriand, Patricia Urquiola, and Francesco Rota. An orange outdoor kitchen adds a vibrant contrast to the sleek design. The pergola-covered terrace, with its warm colors and generously sized furniture, provides a tranquil retreat amidst the urban environment. #MilanApartment #SmallSpaceDesign #DisappearingBed #CustomFurniture #ModernDesignClassics #InnovativeLiving #DuplexApartment #ArchitecturalDesign #InteriorInnovation

Antoinette Allande Interiors, a luxury residential design studio based in Hoboken, executed a significant home renovation in Montclair, New Jersey. The project involved transforming a 19th-century house, built in 1902 and located at 191 Christopher Street, into a modern yet traditional living space for a young family. The property spans 3,174 square feet and originally featured three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The clients, Amy and Tristan Morel L’Horset, are a family with three young boys and a history of international travel. Amy works as a registered dietitian and nutrition professor, while Tristan is a senior managing director at a global service and consulting company. Their brief to Antoinette Allande was to update their traditional home with a fresh perspective, prioritizing beautiful aesthetics alongside practical, comfortable living. They required durable furnishings that were not overly delicate and could seamlessly integrate with their existing collection of French antiques. The home's original formal and ornate exterior and interior architecture necessitated a design approach that respected its historical integrity. Antoinette Allande's design philosophy for this project was coined "Eclectic Traditional with a touch of Whimsy." This approach allowed her to blend modern furnishings with the historical architectural details, incorporating elements of the clients' whimsical preferences. Key design choices included a large, comfortable family room sectional, intended for family time and movie nights. The dining area features vintage pieces—a table, chairs, and a chandelier—acquired by the clients while living in France. These ornate, classical French furnishings were complemented by rich jewel-toned textiles, contrasting with lighter architectural finishes. A contemporary hand-knotted rug from Rejuvenation and antique French chairs re-upholstered in sapphire blue velvet further enhance the eclectic mix. The home's walls are painted in Benjamin Moore’s Moonshine 0C-56, while trim and other white areas utilize Benjamin Moore’s Chantilly Lace OC-65. The entry hall is designed to make a strong first impression, incorporating vibrant colors and patterns to reflect the clients' personality and create a welcoming atmosphere. This space features a commissioned Moroccan carpet, a family tree display, a Mokum by Katherine Martin wallpaper from Holly Hunt New York, an antique British Colonial entry table, an Indian block-printed tablecloth by Roberta Roller Rabbit, a Kelly Wearstler light fixture from Circa Lighting, a CB2 cabinet, and an Arteriors Home table lamp, all contributing to a playful and youthful aesthetic. In the living and dining areas, original built-in cabinetry and millwork were preserved and enhanced by whitewashing dark beams, the fireplace, and paneling. This technique was employed to create a lighter, airier feel, drawing inspiration from early 20th-century designer Elsie de Wolf, known for transforming dark interiors with white and light colors. The project remained within budget and on schedule despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. The property itself is a Dutch Colonial Revival style home, recognized for its ornate period details, symmetrical design, Ionic columns, white painted exterior, dormer windows with curved head sash detail, and black shutters, situated in Montclair's historic Marlboro Park area. Collaborators on the project included Franklin Nunez for painting, Orlando Silva of Golden Wallpaper for wallpaper installation, Ryan M. Brown Photography for documentation, and Brett Fixes for home improvements. Antoinette Allande Interiors operates from Hoboken, offering various design services including renovations, decorating, and art consulting, known for combining vintage and modern elements with contemporary art to achieve relaxed, layered, and eclectic interiors. #MontclairHomeMakeover #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #AntoinetteAllandeInteriors #EclecticTraditional #LuxuryResidentialDesign #DutchColonialRevival #VintageModernMix #HistoricalPreservation

Alexander Design transformed a four-story building, originally constructed in 1926 as a telephone company headquarters in Venice, into a modern multi-use space. The historic structure now accommodates offices, gallery spaces, and a penthouse loft that includes a private roof garden. The design approach emphasizes a monochromatic palette, predominantly featuring various shades of grey, which is complemented by the warmth of natural wood accents and soft textures throughout the interior. Preserving some of the building's original industrial details was a key aspect of the renovation, integrating the historical character with contemporary design. The penthouse loft features an open-plan layout, designed to maximize the influx of natural light through its expansive windows. The original structural columns are strategically retained, serving as subtle indicators that help delineate different functional zones within the large, undivided space. These areas include a living room, a kitchen, a dining room, multiple sitting areas, a dedicated office, a bedroom, two bathrooms, a gym, and an unconventional addition of an indoor swing, adding a playful element to the sophisticated environment. The deliberate placement of these elements ensures that the open feel of the loft is maintained while providing distinct functional areas for various activities. The kitchen area exemplifies the blend of functionality and aesthetics in the loft's design. It is equipped with open wall shelving that offers both storage and display opportunities, a series of lower cabinets for essential kitchen items, and a large central island. This island is not only a significant workspace but also incorporates additional storage, enhancing the kitchen's utility without compromising its sleek, minimalist appearance. The integration of modern kitchen amenities within the historic shell demonstrates a thoughtful approach to adaptive reuse. Throughout the conversion, Alexander Design focused on creating a cohesive and inviting atmosphere. The material selection, including the greys, woods, and soft textiles, contributes to a calm and sophisticated aesthetic that respects the building's past while embracing modern living. The project highlights how historical buildings can be reimagined to serve contemporary needs, providing unique living and working environments. The thoughtful design ensures that the loft is not only visually appealing but also highly functional, offering a luxurious and comfortable lifestyle within a historically significant context. #LoftConversion #VeniceDesign #AlexanderDesign #MonochromaticPalette #IndustrialDetails #OpenPlanLiving #HistoricRenovation #PenthouseLoft #InteriorDesign

Valencia-based studio Paloma Bau recently completed the renovation of a 55-square-metre beachfront apartment in Dénia, Spain, which now serves as a holiday home for its owner. The project, named Mediterrasian, aimed to blend East Asian and Mediterranean design influences while addressing inherent structural shortcomings of the original 2008 construction. The renovation focused on correcting common issues such as awkward ceiling drops for technical installations, poorly integrated pillars, unnecessary structural build-ups, and unresolved material junctions. Paloma Bau meticulously considered architectural detailing to achieve a coherent and streamlined aesthetic throughout the apartment. This approach prioritized functionality and visual harmony, ensuring that every element contributed to the overall design. Key to the Mediterranean influence is the incorporation of built-in elements, which serve to soften the interior and enhance practicality. For instance, bathrooms feature shelving integrated into curved corners, effectively zoning the shower area while providing discreet storage. Similarly, the living room and bedrooms benefit from recessed shelving and smooth-fronted, integrated cabinets, offering ample storage without introducing visual clutter. The material and color palette is intentionally neutral, creating a calming and sophisticated atmosphere. Light-colored oak cabinetry and shelving are consistently used across multiple rooms, providing a unifying element amidst varied textures. This choice of wood brings warmth and tactile richness, characteristic of Mediterranean design. East Asian influences are evident in several bespoke design elements. A floor-to-ceiling sliding door, separating the communal and private spaces, is a prominent example. Crafted from translucent, dappled glass with arc-shaped tracery, this door draws inspiration from traditional Japanese wooden-and-paper panels. The studio reimagined these materials in metal and cathedral glass, aiming to evoke the gentle movement of ocean waves. This artistic interpretation serves as a focal point and a functional divider. Further East Asian touches include rice paper lampshades and sheer linen curtains, which contribute to a light and airy ambiance. These delicate elements are thoughtfully contrasted with dark hardware on doors, adding a subtle touch of modernity and definition. The combination of these stylistic elements—the earthy warmth of Mediterranean design with the refined restraint of Asian aesthetics—defines the apartment's unique character. Custom-built volumes in the living space double as bases for the sofa and steps leading to the terrace, showcasing a smart integration of form and function. An archway gracefully connects the living area to the kitchen, repeating an architectural motif seen elsewhere. The design ethos prioritizes spatial mindfulness and clarity, ensuring that the relatively compact 55-square-metre space feels open and uncluttered. The project successfully marries the artisanal qualities often found in traditional Mediterranean homes with sophisticated architectural precision, resulting in a design that is both visually appealing and highly functional for a holiday residence. The renovation highlights how thoughtful design can transform a standard apartment into a unique space that reflects a nuanced blend of cultural aesthetics. #ApartmentRenovation #MediterraneanDesign #EastAsianInfluence #CoastalLiving #InteriorArchitecture #HolidayHome #NeutralPalette #PalomaBau #CustomMillwork

The July London Victoria, an apartment-hotel located across from Victoria Station, offers a unique blend of residential comfort and hospitality services, catering to both short-term guests and long-stay digital nomads. Situated in a prime London location, this 114-key "urban retreat" integrates public-facing hospitality spaces, including The Idler restaurant and an associated deli, designed to provide a calming environment amidst the city's fast pace. These establishments offer urbanites an opportunity to relax and connect. The hotel's interior design, a collaboration between an in-house design team, the London and Los Angeles-based firm Fettle, and architects Studio Moren, skillfully combines comfort with adaptability. The design aesthetic pays homage to the Art Deco architecture prevalent in the area, incorporating sea foam greens, pale pinks, salmony oranges, and burgundy reds across various surfaces such as tiled walls, intricate crown detailing, and two-tone walls. The public spaces, like The Idler, feature plush banquette seating, a distinctive ceiling mural within bold molding, and herringbone-pattern parquet flooring accented with tile trim. White and black marble slabs top curved-edge counters, which are clad in tambour pattern wood slatting, adding to the sophisticated ambiance. Specific design elements like painted glass sphere pendants and select fabric upholstery contribute to the overall refined aesthetic. Accommodation options include guest rooms, suites, and two Family Apartments with interconnected rooms, alongside a co-working space, all equipped to support various aspects of guests' lives, from relaxation to remote work. The layouts are thoughtfully designed to facilitate these diverse needs. In the guest rooms, custom oak joinery provides integrated wardrobes, kitchenettes, and storage solutions. Bespoke brass pendants and discrete bedside lights with fluted shades further enhance the personalized and functional design. This thoughtful approach ensures that guests have all the necessary amenities for an extended stay, whether for business or leisure. Sustainability is a core value for The July brand, and this commitment is reflected in the material choices and furnishing strategies employed throughout the hotel. A notable aspect of the interior furnishing involves the careful sourcing and refurbishment of vintage pieces, aligning with contemporary trends in architecture and design that prioritize environmental consciousness and unique, characterful aesthetics. This approach not only supports sustainable practices but also imbues the hotel with a distinct personality that resonates with its historical context and the modern traveler's desire for authenticity. The July London Victoria differentiates itself within the hospitality sector by fostering a balance between private living and social engagement, a strategy it aims to replicate in its expanding portfolio across Europe. Andy Goodwin, co-founder and creative director of Fettle, emphasized that the design concept was developed to reflect The July’s brand values and its narrative, which is deeply rooted in the local area's history. He highlighted the multifunctional nature of the apartment-hotel rooms, which needed to accommodate relaxation, dining, and work within each apartment, complemented by dedicated meeting, flexible, and wellness areas. This holistic design ensures that the hotel serves as a comprehensive urban retreat, offering a seamless experience for its varied clientele while maintaining a strong connection to its London setting and a forward-thinking approach to hospitality. The hotel offers flexible accommodation options and shared facilities designed to create a vibrant community while still allowing for individual privacy. Its location near a major transportation hub makes it an ideal choice for a diverse range of travelers. Overall, The July London Victoria represents a contemporary solution for urban living, blending design, functionality, and sustainability to create a memorable stay experience. #apartmentHotel #LondonTravel #ArtDecoDesign #digitalNomad #sustainableDesign #interiorDesign #hospitality #urbanRetreat #fettleDesign

Sigla Studio has completed the renovation of a 150-square-meter apartment in Barcelona's Eixample district, located within the 1904 residential building Casa Salvador Viladevall III. The project focused on preserving and restoring the apartment's original early 20th-century features while integrating contemporary elements for improved functionality and comfort. Unlike many other renovations in the building that disregarded historical characteristics, Sigla Studio meticulously rehabilitated existing details, aiming for a harmonious blend of old and new. Key original features preserved and restored include the vibrant mosaic floor tiles and decorative plaster mouldings on the ceilings. The mosaic floors, identified as creations by Teotim Fortuny—a prominent manufacturer of hydraulic mosaics in Catalonia known for intricate modernist and traditional Catalan designs—were carefully restored, with missing tiles painstakingly sourced to maintain their integrity. Solid wooden doors were also preserved, and original windows were updated with double-glazing to enhance energy efficiency without compromising their aesthetic or tactile qualities. Structurally, a significant intervention involved opening up the kitchen to the hallway and introducing an internal window between the kitchen and living room. These changes were implemented to improve natural light penetration and overall flow within the central areas of the apartment. The kitchen also received a vaulted ceiling and warm red Alicante marble floors, which create a striking contrast with the cool steel kitchen cabinets. In the living and dining areas, a large table designed by the studio, featuring a marine plywood structure and a Roman travertine marble top, serves as a focal point. A silver pendant lamp hangs above it, accentuating a ceiling rose, part of the decorative plaster mouldings. The bedrooms adopt a more subdued, natural color palette, balancing the vibrant restored floors with softer tones to ensure seamless integration of historical and modern elements. To accommodate the client's request for an additional bedroom, the main bedroom was divided into two using a custom-built dressing room. This adaptive design solution avoided alterations to the original mosaic floors or ceiling mouldings, respecting the apartment's historical layout while meeting contemporary needs. Bathrooms feature custom-made red marble sinks and detailing, designed to visually integrate with the rest of the apartment rather than being isolated spaces. When not in use, their open doors contribute to a greater sense of spaciousness and improved lighting. The project underscores a commitment to celebrating Barcelona's rich architectural heritage through thoughtful restoration and contemporary intervention. #BarcelonaApartment #SiglaStudio #ApartmentRenovation #HistoricPreservation #MosaicFloors #CatalanModernism #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalRestoration #EixampleDistrict

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

Pia Mendaro, a Spanish architect, undertook the transformation of a 100 sqm warehouse in Madrid into a flexible living and workspace for her artist friend, Clara Cebrian. Cebrian's request for a home that could adapt over time, similar to a 'Ron Weasley house,' guided Mendaro's approach. The design aimed to be minimal, allowing life to unfold within the space while incorporating specific existing elements, including a kitchen Cebrian had purchased and immovable downspouts. Mendaro emphasized understanding the space as a square, a fundamental concept informing the layout. The central element of Topo's Shed is a semi-hanging platform that serves as the artist's sleeping area. This innovative feature, developed in collaboration with architect Manuel Ocana, was conceived after considering various mobile and enclosed bed designs. The decision to elevate the sleeping space was driven by the desire to detach it from the ground. Thin steel rods and corrugated rounds secure this structure to the ceiling truss, creating an ethereal and spacious sleeping area. The platform is strategically positioned near the gabled roof's opening, allowing light to filter into the space and offering views of the warehouse's horizon. A movable ladder provides access to this elevated platform, which is designed to accommodate multiple people. Additionally, a flight of steps, doubling as seating, leads to a balcony that provides views of the surrounding neighborhood. The layout of the warehouse integrates a discreet bathroom, concealed behind a wall that also separates the kitchen and main living area from the storage facility. The kitchen floor is distinguished by wooden planks, contrasting with the larger cement flooring throughout the rest of the space, a practical choice to maintain cleanliness. The home's design incorporates a lounge area, a hammock suspended beneath the elevated bed, and a substantial open area designated as the artist's studio. The color palette primarily features greys and whites for walls, floors, and ceilings, which are accented by pastel and coral hues in the kitchen cabinetry, furniture, and artworks. Reflecting on the completed project, Mendaro noted one potential area for improvement: the lack of direct sunlight due to the north-facing windows. While this aspect is beneficial for avoiding harsh glare, she considered the future need for curtains to facilitate longer sleep, acknowledging the natural light conditions. The project, named Topo's Shed, was completed in 2020 and is located in Madrid, Spain. It spans a built area of 100 sqm, with Clara Cebrian as the promoter and Fast&Furious Office responsible for production. This design exemplifies an unconventional approach to residential and studio spaces, prioritizing flexibility, adaptability, and a distinctive elevated living experience within a repurposed industrial structure. #PiaMendaro #WarehouseConversion #MadridArchitecture #ElevatedLiving #ArtistStudio #FlexibleSpaces #ArchitecturalInnovation #AdaptiveReuse #InteriorDesign