Raw and Refined: Inside a Renovated Brutalist Apartment in Rome

Casa Polly, located in Rome’s historic Villa Fiorelli, represents a compelling architectural transformation that blends brutalist aesthetics with pop art elements. This project, undertaken by 02A Studio, helmed by architects Marco Rulli and Thomas Grossi, revitalizes a 1960s apartment once owned by designer Valerio Ciampicacigli. The original space featured mid-century brutalist characteristics, including raw concrete and open layouts, which have been preserved and reinterpreted to suit the vibrant personalities of its new inhabitants, actress Martina Pinto and director Alessandro Poggi. Spanning 1,292 square feet, the apartment's layout was meticulously redesigned to meet the evolving needs of a family. The central living area is an eclectic mix of materials, featuring an exposed concrete pillar that serves as a brutalist anchor. This is complemented by a terrazzo floor with a resin finish, glossy kitchen tiles, and wooden accents on a raised dining platform, creating a dynamic interplay of textures and finishes. The intention was to celebrate the apartment’s heritage while introducing a fresh, joyful aesthetic. Each room in Casa Polly introduces a distinct character. The hallway incorporates lilac striped walls that cleverly conceal storage solutions, transforming functional elements into artistic features. The primary bedroom adopts a whimsical, cartoon-inspired theme, characterized by flowing lines, plush furnishings, and a light blue carpet, contributing to a dreamy atmosphere. The adjoining en-suite bathroom extends this theme with pastel colors and undulating forms, juxtaposed with sleek industrial partitions. A notable design detail in the bathroom is a light green wavy border framing the doorway, leading into a space adorned with light pink tiles. A pink fluted vanity with a matching countertop is a focal point, further enhanced by a contrasting pale yellow mirror. Beyond its visual appeal, Casa Polly is designed with a strong emphasis on family functionality. The renovation includes a dedicated child’s bedroom, a practical walk-in closet, and a separate laundry area. These additions are seamlessly integrated into the home's playful design, ensuring that every space is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. The project reflects 02A Studio’s philosophy of treating each architectural endeavor as an intricate puzzle, where client aspirations, existing structural constraints, and artistic vision are harmoniously brought together to create a cohesive and joyful living environment. #ArchitecturalRenovation #BrutalistArchitecture #PopArt #InteriorDesignRome #02AStudio #FamilyHomeDesign #EclecticInteriors #ModernApartment

The Moiré apartment, a duplex unit in Brasília, Brazil, has undergone a contemporary renovation by CoDa Arquitetura. This project aimed to infuse modern drama into the existing structure while preserving and enhancing its original architectural details. The name 'Moiré' is derived from the optical effect of shimmering or rippling patterns created by the superposition of similar designs, a phenomenon subtly referenced by the metal mesh railing of the central staircase in the apartment. Spanning 294 sq m, the apartment serves as the primary urban residence for a doctor, a lawyer, and their small dog. The design brief focused on maximizing existing space and fulfilling specific client requests. These included the integration of a guest kitchen with the living room for entertaining purposes, alongside a more private kitchen for daily use. Additionally, the clients desired three suites, a guest bathroom, a TV room, and an office, emphasizing the need for a highly functional and integrated living environment. CoDa Arquitetura's design retained the exposed concrete beams and pillars, introducing an element of material honesty and rawness. The overall aesthetic is modern and contemporary, with the central staircase, an original feature now updated with a new metal railing and handrail, serving as a focal point. A distinctive honeycomb ceiling, with its metal grid and surrounding concrete, provides a visual contrast to the warm, dark tones of the staircase and wood elements, adding an intriguing design detail. The architects focused on creating harmonious and functional spaces that cater to the clients' lifestyle. The two distinct kitchens exemplify this approach: a formal kitchen seamlessly integrated into the living area for guests and a more utilitarian kitchen for everyday activities. The renovation also involved strategic spatial reconfigurations, such as converting one bathroom into two and creating a new powder room, which facilitated an expansion of the living room. The material palette employed in the apartment is diverse and sophisticated, ranging from feature wood paneling in the entertainment zones to the dynamic honeycomb ceiling. The sleek metal of the staircase and the luxurious Guatemala marble used for the kitchen countertop further contribute to the apartment's refined character. Each bathroom was designed with a unique personality, including a primary suite, a green suite, and a blue suite. The second floor features balconies that connect the main bedroom to an office and a secondary bedroom. The culmination of these design choices is a residence that is both timeless and understated, offering a balanced environment for contemporary living, entertaining, and personal relaxation. #BrasiliaApartment #CoDaArquitetura #MoiréDesign #ModernArchitecture #ContemporaryInteriors #OpticalIllusion #DuplexRenovation #BrazilDesign #LuxuryApartment

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

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

Brutalism, an architectural style that emerged after World War II, is characterized by its unpolished, minimalist aesthetic, bold forms, and raw materials, particularly concrete. While sometimes misunderstood as cold or uninviting, Brutalism is experiencing a resurgence, partly attributed to a desire for permanence in a fast-paced digital world. The article features insights from three designers on how to effectively decorate a Brutalist living room, emphasizing that the decor should complement, rather than detract from, the architecture's inherent qualities. Grant Kirkpatrick of KAA Design Group highlights the importance of selecting sculptural furniture that echoes the massing and materiality of the Brutalist space without adding clutter. He suggests incorporating classic designs from figures like Pierre Jeanneret and Arne Jacobsen, or contemporary pieces by designers such as Pierre Yovanovitch that feel sculpted and monolithic. Kirkpatrick recommends materials that age gracefully, such as cast concrete, thermally treated wood, bronze, patinated steel, and natural stone. He stresses the significance of how different materials meet, noting that junctions like rough-sawn oak against polished stone can elevate simplicity into an architectural statement. He also points out that Japanese minimalism, with its emphasis on material clarity and negative space, and elements of mid-century design can integrate well into Brutalist interiors. Brittany Farinas, CEO and creative director of House of One Interior Design, advises focusing on clean lines and functional furnishings to allow the raw materials and architectural elements to remain central. She suggests embracing industrial and utilitarian decor that reinforces the style's strength. For fabrics, natural and tactile options like linen, wool, and canvas are recommended, as they add warmth and texture to soften the inherent starkness of concrete and metal. While a neutral palette of grays, whites, and blacks typically anchors Brutalism, Farinas encourages the strategic use of bold accents, such as deep jewel tones or earthy hues, to add depth without overwhelming the minimalist aesthetic. Regarding lighting, recessed fixtures and sculptural pendant lights are preferred for maintaining clean lines, with sleek floor lamps or industrial-edged table lamps in matte black or brushed metal, from brands like Flos, completing the look. Joyce Huston, co-founder of Decorilla Online Interior Design, emphasizes the beauty of contrast in Brutalism. She illustrates this with examples such as a massive concrete coffee table paired with a buttery leather couch, or lush plants set against a harsh exposed brick wall to alter the mood of the space. Huston suggests leaving windows bare for maximum natural light, which beautifully interacts with raw concrete and textured walls. If window treatments are necessary for privacy or light control, she recommends simple, functional options like linen panels or hidden roller shades in solid tones. For flooring, bare concrete or hardwood is often suitable, but low-pile or flatweave rugs made of wool, jute, or similar weighty materials can provide warmth and improve acoustics without excessive ornamentation. When it comes to art and accessories, Huston advocates for selectivity, favoring one large, strong abstract piece, monochrome photography, or textured artwork that complements raw materials. Accessories should feel grounded, with heavy ceramics and sculptural lamps being ideal choices, reinforcing the principle that Brutalism is about careful selection rather than accumulation. #Brutalism #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalStyle #HomeDecor #MinimalistDesign #LuxuryRealEstate #PostWarArchitecture #DesignersCorner #HomeImprovements

Jean-Christophe Aumas, an art director based in Paris, embraces an instinctive and fluid approach to interior design, viewing his apartment as an evolving laboratory rather than a static space. He frequently rearranges furniture, repaints walls, and groups objects in new configurations, emphasizing that "Nothing is permanent." His Parisian apartment is situated on the ground floor of an 18th-century hôtel particulier in Pigalle, a property that immediately captivated him with its cathedral-like ceilings, intricate plaster moldings, and original herringbone parquet floors during his initial visit in 2016. The stained-glass windows and a small courtyard were particular draws, and these glass mosaics significantly influenced the apartment's vibrant color palette, featuring vivid blues, burnt reds, and punchy lilacs. Aumas notes that this unique characteristic creates the feeling of living in a small garden, a rarity in Paris. Addressing a lack of natural light, Aumas incorporated a skylight in the living room and installed floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto the garden. This intentional design choice aimed to blend the indoor and outdoor spaces, fostering a "little jungle" atmosphere where greenery seamlessly extends indoors from the purposefully overgrown outdoor area and an extensive houseplant collection. The interior design subsequently evolved organically, leveraging Aumas’s expertise in creating memorable visual experiences, a skill honed through his work on window displays and set designs for prominent brands like Cartier and Louis Vuitton. For instance, after designing a cobalt-tinted mirror for the fireplace, he extended this hue by painting a vertical block of French blue from the mantel to the ceiling. The kitchen reflects a fusion of Brutalism and Mediterranean influences, inspired by Aumas's trips to Procida, Italy, and his upbringing near Aix-en-Provence. Concrete countertops, reminiscent of London's Barbican building, are juxtaposed with a lavender wall color, evoking Mediterranean summers. To further enhance this contrast, wood salvaged from the renovation was repurposed into kitchen cabinets, left raw and treated only with a matte varnish to highlight its texture. The bathroom maintains this coastal European aesthetic with terracotta tiles from Siracusa, Sicily, laid in graphic stripes. Aumas created a distinct "shower capsule" by painting the upper half of the shower wall in a dusty pink and replacing a traditional glass door with a decorative, cinder block-esque partition. Despite the apartment's vibrant use of color, Aumas considers it minimalist compared to his previous loft, which was entirely painted in bright hues. His current approach focuses on using "just a touch of color in each room." Examples include a cobalt archway and radiator in the library complementing a Moroccan rug, and a sky-blue built-in bookcase in the bedroom against white walls. The dining room, notably, is an exception to the geometric paint treatments. With its high ceilings and plaster moldings, it is bathed in a pale, almost white blue, creating a serene and expansive feel, with only a crimson Moroccan rug anchoring the dining table. The apartment is also deeply personalized through furnishings and art collected from around the world, such as Carlo Scarpa chairs, vintage 1950s ceramics, and a painting by Lara Feldman. Aumas particularly cherishes his Vincenzo de Cotiis sofa, from which he can survey nearly his entire home, underscoring the cohesive and curated nature of his living space. #HomeTour #ParisApartment #InteriorDesign #CreativeDirector #Renovation #ColorPalette #SustainableDesign #BrutalistInfluence #MediterraneanVibe

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 article details the transformation of a 100-year-old, long-abandoned home into a sophisticated and comfortable spec home, spearheaded by designer Joan Enger of J. PATRYCE DESIGN. The renovation project, undertaken with her developer husband, spanned 17 months and aimed to create a custom house appealing to a broad range of tastes through a subtle palette and a restrained aesthetic. The initial state of the house was dire, featuring graffiti on the front door and a car-sized hole in the roof, highlighting the extensive nature of the undertaking. The kitchen, a central focus of the home, features custom cerused oak cabinetry with brass detailing, complemented by natural light. Circular pendant lights from Lambert & Fils provide visual contrast and highlight the black streaks in the marble countertops and backsplash sourced from Marble America. Appliances are by Wolf, and stools are from CB2. A custom oak ladder with brass hardware, a design risk taken by Enger, adds warmth to the cool neutral tones of the kitchen. Ten-foot tall telescoping doors from Marvin contribute to space conservation, and a desk chair originally from Bungalow 5 was reupholstered in Claremont Furnishing Fabrics Company velvet. In the living room, an eleven-foot ceiling allowed for the display of large-scale artworks by Tim Leffens. The console beneath the paintings is from Restoration Hardware, and the overhead light fixture is also from Lambert & Fils. Enger designed a custom limestone mantle and had a vintage coffee table repainted. A speckled gray sofa from CB2 is paired with vintage lounge chairs, reupholstered in Holly Hunt fabric. The parlor windows were restored to their original floor-to-ceiling height. Though Enger initially envisioned a modern aesthetic, the discovery of restorable original stair railings led to a blend of classic and contemporary elements throughout the space. The dining room boasts custom millwork and features lights over the bookcases from Visual Comfort. Vintage chairs were reupholstered in linen from Rogers & Goffigon, while the sisal rug is from AllModern, and a vintage table was refinished. Artwork by Jed Miner is displayed, available through J. PATRYCE DESIGN. A custom banquette with a cushion from Holland & Sherry and pillows from Williams-Sonoma Home creates a cozy nook, with a stool, rug, and sconces from Williams-Sonoma Home, Bungalow 5, and Cedar and Moss, respectively. The powder room showcases ash gray tile from Marble America, a custom rift oak vanity, and hardware from Crosswater London. The mirror is from Restoration Hardware, and the sconce is by Visual Comfort. The entryway is defined by rich black doors and a matching stair railing. The master bedroom incorporates vintage pieces, including an accent table, striped linen-reupholstered chairs, and chenille-reupholstered benches. The cocoa-colored dresser and bed are from AllModern, while the mirror is from Anthropologie. Bedside tables from Bungalow 5 are adorned with vintage lamps and custom lampshades, and a textured rug from AllModern completes the room. The master bath features neutral-toned travertine tile on the floor and walls, a custom-designed cerused oak vanity, and a matte lacquer shelving unit. The tub is by Victoria + Albert, fixtures are by Kallista, and a vintage bench is included. In the guest bedroom, a subtle CB2 bed, AllModern nightstand, and artful AllModern mirror are combined with vintage stools reupholstered in blue linen and a vintage Adrian Pearsall lounge chair in Rogers & Goffigon fabric. The painting is also vintage. The girl's bedroom adopts a playful style with vintage artwork, including cast aluminum antlers, a vintage Milo Baughman side chair reupholstered in Rogers & Goffigon fabric, a CB2 chest, and West Elm accent table and floor pillow. The laundry room features porcelain mosaic tile and Caesarstone counters from Marble America, with custom millwork. Organization is maintained with West Elm baskets, Container Store glass jars and laundry basket, and a woven towel from ABC Carpet & Home. A bathroom features an accent wall of Ann Sacks tile, with other tiles and countertops from Marble America. Medicine cabinets are from Restoration Hardware, a vintage Eero Saarinen stool is reupholstered in Maharam vinyl, sink hardware is from Crosswater London, and the sconce is from Visual Comfort. For the outdoor area, three distinct spaces were created: a firepit and seating area, a turf-covered section, and a semi-covered lounging, dining, and outdoor cooking area near the sliding doors. A modern IPE and cable wire staircase provides access to the outdoor kitchen. The firepit is from Restoration Hardware with a customized IPE base, and chairs are from AllModern. The overall renovation demonstrates how a once dilapidated property can be transformed into a stylish, custom home with an understated yet elegant aesthetic, making it appealing to a broad market. #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #UnderstatedElegance #SpecHome #SubtlePalette #CustomCabinetry #VintageFurniture #LuxuryFinishes #ArchitecturalTransformation

This article details the transformation of an early 20th-century Art Nouveau apartment in Catania, Italy, into a bed and breakfast. The project, undertaken by Marasco and Santangelo along with Galati Casmiro Giorno, focuses on reinterpreting the Stile Liberty language by blending historical elements with contemporary design. The core of the renovation involved restoring the original colored cement tile floors, which subsequently informed the color palette for new interior additions. These floors, a hallmark of the period, are not only preserved but also highlighted as central decorative features within each room. The spatial reorganization of the apartment was a key aspect, ensuring that each room now functions independently, equipped with its own private bathroom. The bathrooms are subtly separated from the sleeping areas by lightweight, colorful partitions. A deliberate design choice was made to keep these partitions lower than the original ceilings, allowing the distinctive vaulted ceilings to remain visible and untouched, thus respecting the apartment’s historical architecture. The entrance area has been reimagined with a striking red volume, which serves as a central hub for the reception and kitchen. This central space facilitates access to the various autonomous rooms, enhancing the functionality of the new hospitality concept. The project emphasizes a dialogue between the past and present, achieved through thoughtful additions and a cohesive color scheme derived directly from the existing architectural details. The minimalist design interventions for lighting, seating, and small furnishings complement the historical context without overshadowing it. This approach allows the Art Nouveau heritage to shine through while integrating modern amenities necessary for a contemporary hospitality experience. The renovation successfully bridges the gap between historical preservation and modern functionality, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere for guests. The completed project in 2024 showcases a sensitive yet innovative approach to repurposing a historically significant building. #ArtNouveau #StileLiberty #CataniaArchitecture #HistoricRenovation #HospitalityDesign #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalPreservation #CementTiles #VaultedCeilings

Kin Architects undertook the renovation of a small apartment in Brisbane’s Torbreck, the city's first high-rise apartment tower, for a young professional couple. Initially, the clients planned to manage the renovation themselves, but their cabinetmaker recommended Kin Architects' co-founders, Marjorie Dixon and Leah Gallagher, to design a kitchen island bench. This initial request expanded to encompass the entire apartment's renovation. The project presented a challenge due to updates already made by the clients, including selected tiles, installed plumbing fixtures, and a timber platform in the kitchen and dining area. The design objective was to integrate the mid-century modern aesthetic of the Torbreck building with contemporary functionality. The resulting kitchen island bench serves as the scheme's focal point, functioning as a bar, desk, and kitchen bench, crafted to appear as a sophisticated piece of timber furniture. Its design successfully merges the building's original character with modern needs. A key feature of the renovation is the full-height, panelled joinery that spans the living, kitchen, and dining areas. This bespoke element, showcasing the cabinetmaker's skill, discreetly conceals storage and a television, contributing to the apartment's polished look. The joinery includes a water-jet-cut marble buffet, designed for cocktail preparation, reminiscent of 1950s design with a modern, animated touch. A bold design choice was the selection of a vibrant blue carpet, which the architects successfully proposed to the clients. This colourful element contributes to the apartment's mid-century aesthetic. The bathroom also features bold design elements, including striking floor tiles complemented by recycled hardwood drawers in the vanity, echoing the timber finishes used in the kitchen. The renovation incorporates meticulous bespoke details, such as a mirror cut-out that allows an arched tap to sit flush with the marble splashback, and another cut-out enabling the shower door to open inwards. These details optimize space and functionality within the compact apartment. The project successfully creates a comfortable and stylish living space that respects the building's historical context while incorporating modern living requirements. Key products and materials used include Dulux Wash and Wear Acrylic Low Sheen paint in 'Whisper White' for walls, and Gaboon plywood panelling with hoop pine half rounds for kitchen joinery, finished with Porters Paints Wood Wash in 'Plain White'. Flooring in the kitchen features mixed recycled hardwood from Kennedy’s Timbers, and Tretford cord carpet in 'Freshwater 615'. The kitchen also includes a Corian benchtop in 'Glacier White', a recycled Carrara marble circular benchtop, and Astra Walker Icon tapware. Bathroom elements include Vast Dove Grey Satin rectified wall tiles and Arcade Hyde Multicolour glazed-porcelain floor tiles from Beaumont Tiles, alongside a recycled Carrara marble benchtop and Brodware City Plus tapware. The project was completed in 2018, with Kin Architects as the architect, and the owner as the builder, in collaboration with William McMahon Cabinetmaker. #ApartmentRenovation #MidCenturyModern #InteriorDesign #KinArchitects #BrisbaneArchitecture #CustomJoinery #ResidentialDesign #KitchenDesign

Porto-based architecture studio Fala Atelier undertook a significant renovation of a 60-square-metre apartment located in a historic tile-clad building in downtown Lisbon. The project, named Príncipe Real Apartment, was led by Fala Atelier co-founders Filipe Magalhães and Ana Luisa Soares. The primary objective of the renovation was to transform a cramped and spatially disorganised flat into a bright, open-plan living space. The initial state of the apartment was characterized by an erratic spatial system, with interior walls creating a tightly packed and inefficient layout. The architects decided to completely remove all existing interior walls, effectively gutting the apartment to establish a clean slate. Following this demolition, only two new partitions were introduced, allowing for a largely open-plan configuration that dramatically altered the flow and perception of space within the flat. A key design intervention involved the strategic relocation of living spaces. The architects moved the primary living and dining areas from the north side of the apartment to the south, thereby maximising access to natural light and offering enhanced views of the city from the small, enclosed balcony. This reorientation not only improved daylighting but also capitalized on the apartment's urban context. The redesigned layout incorporates mirrored and glass sliding doors, which play a crucial role in enhancing the sense of openness and light. These doors connect the central living and dining space to bedrooms and bathrooms positioned on either side. The reflective surfaces of the mirrored doors contribute to the illusion of a larger space and help distribute light throughout the interior. The balcony, featuring two glazed sides, was conceived as a direct extension of the living room, seamlessly integrating indoor and outdoor areas through two doorways and an adjoining white brick wall. Material choices further contribute to the apartment's aesthetic and functional improvements. The floor in the main living area is adorned with black and white patterned tiles, a design choice that subtly references the decorative facade of the building itself. Bright white paint was used extensively on both walls and ceilings throughout the apartment, creating a neutral and expansive backdrop. This 'clear canvas' approach allows for a curated selection of furniture pieces, which are treated as independent objects within the space, to stand out. Custom-designed furniture elements add character and functionality. A deep green sideboard, featuring a tessellating geometric print, is positioned in the living space, serving as a preparation area adjacent to the kitchen. In one of the bedrooms, a chest of pale-blue drawers with a diamond pattern cut into its surface provides both storage and a decorative accent. The apartment's previous layout included a windowless bedroom in the centre, which lacked views. This was rectified by re-situating both bedrooms side-by-side across the north facade, with the master bedroom gaining French doors that open onto a small balcony. The project effectively addressed the spatial deficiencies of the original flat, creating a modern, light-filled, and functionally superior living environment through thoughtful demolition, reorientation, and strategic material and furniture selections. #ApartmentRenovation #LisbonArchitecture #OpenPlanLiving #InteriorDesign #FalaAtelier #ResidentialArchitecture #SpaceRedesign #ModernInteriors

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

Caitlin Cavagnolo and her husband, Tyler Randall, transformed their 650-square-foot Jersey City apartment into a space evoking the serene grandeur of an Italian villa. Their vision for a calming and soothing yet somewhat grand environment was realized with the help of Caitlin's sister, Hayley Cavagnolo of Hayley Bridget Interiors. The couple purchased the one-bedroom apartment in 2016, drawn to its practical features like an in-unit washer and dryer, a basement, and a balcony, despite its lack of Italian cypress trees or frescoes. Over the years, they made initial light renovations, including new kitchen counters and replacing laminate floors with wood. The renovation began in earnest when Hayley, noticing the apartment's potential for improvement, stepped in. A key focus was enhancing the kitchen's functionality, as Caitlin is an enthusiastic cook who enjoys making pasta from scratch. The existing marble countertop was extended, providing additional shelving for her cookbook collection and a dedicated workspace for her pasta maker. New millwork on the opposite wall created deep drawers and cabinets for bulkier items, significantly improving storage and accessibility compared to the previous setup that required a ladder for retrieval. The apartment's color palette was carefully chosen to exude a warm glow, reminiscent of an Amalfi Coast summer. Hayley selected Farrow & Ball’s Hay, a dusty yellow, for the kitchen cabinets and Benjamin Moore’s Elephant Tusk for the walls. Caitlin's request for blue doors led Hayley to use two shades of blue, creating a trompe l’oeil effect that made the panels appear deeper and more decorative. This cohesive color scheme was crucial for layering design elements effectively within the small space. The dark blue accent from the doors is echoed in the bedroom's linen bedding. The couple, particularly Tyler, emphasized sustainability and reusing existing furniture. Their simple wood bed frame was reimagined with a custom slipcover for the headboard, and dining chairs were updated with round cushions. Hayley re-covered these dining chairs in a Rose Tarlow stripe fabric, which harmonized with the Loro Piana Gritti Midnight fabric used for the living room armchairs, a Chairish find. This choice reflected a desire for classic, enduring design. In the living room, a linen slipcover was created for the TV, discreetly concealing it when not in use. A durable mohair mat was added to the couch to protect it from their dog, Jackson, who frequently claims a spot. Tyler’s shift to remote work necessitated a dedicated workspace. Using CAD renderings from Hayley and woodworking tools from previous renovations, he crafted a narrow wood desk base, which Hayley topped with a honed marble slab. This custom piece is now in the bedroom, accompanied by a sleek leather and chrome chair. The tiny bathroom, which also houses the washer and dryer, underwent a significant transformation. A new vanity cabinet was installed to store laundry detergent and toiletries, addressing previous clutter issues. To maximize the sense of space, Hayley moved the inset medicine cabinet to a side wall and installed an extra-large mirror, with sconces layered directly on top of the glass sheet. The aim was to create a “jewel box” effect, transforming the small bathroom into a beautiful and functional area, further solidifying the Italian villa aesthetic throughout the apartment. #ApartmentRenovation #ItalianVillaStyle #SmallSpaceDesign #HomeTour #InteriorDesign #JerseyCityLiving #CustomMillwork #ColorPalette

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