Artist Sergio Fiorentino’s Majestic Home and Studio by +CStudio Architetti in Noto, Italy

Stylist Annette Joseph and her husband, Frank, transformed La Fortezza, a 12th-century fortress located in the mountainous Lunigiana region of Tuscany, into a multi-functional space serving as a private retreat and a venue for creative workshops. Initially hesitant due to the fortress’s severe disrepair, Joseph, an Atlanta-based food and prop stylist, revisited the property after four years of searching for an ideal home. The structure, originally a defensive tower from the 1100s later converted into a farmhouse, comprised four separate buildings at varying elevations, posing significant renovation challenges. Joseph embarked on an extensive renovation process, focusing on making the space suitable for both personal use and hosting creative workshops for fellow professionals. Her vision for La Fortezza was to create a sanctuary for her family—herself, her husband, and their two adult children—while also accommodating her professional endeavors, including workshops and the launch of her book, 'Italy Is My Boyfriend.' The renovation began with the private residence atop the fortress tower, where the kitchen was expanded, and a wall was removed to establish an open living and dining area. This area was brightened with stark white walls, complemented by vibrant pops of color from a royal-blue velvet sofa and emerald-green dining chairs. The attic, once used for roasting chestnuts, was transformed into a master bedroom suite featuring a custom handmade copper tub in the bathroom. Further renovations included converting a former farm storage building into a studio. This studio, equipped with a long wooden table and open metal shelving, now serves as a workspace for styling props. Adjacent to the studio, a terrace with a colorful banquette offers panoramic views of the Tuscan landscape. On the lowest level of the fortress, a commercial kitchen was installed, boasting a black Lacanche range, an antique marble sink, and distinct tiles with a fish motif. A unique chandelier, crafted from an inverted and wired 18th-century tin tub, casts a soft glow over the dining area. Nearby gardens provide fresh produce for cooking and styling classes, and sleeping quarters for students and guest instructors were designed in a style described as 'part monastic, part bohemian.' Joseph furnished La Fortezza using a blend of antiques, items from flea markets, online auctions, and pieces by local artisans. A notable design element is the exposed copper plumbing and electrical work, intentionally left visible by her Italian plumber, with copper pipes running along walls to connect with salvaged marble sinks and neatly contained wires leading to porcelain switches. Despite the challenges, including being in Italy during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and returning to the US just before travel restrictions, Joseph maintains a strong connection to La Fortezza and her Italian community, planning future workshops focused on photography and olive harvesting. The project embodies her belief that 'the house finds you,' celebrating La Fortezza as a place that found her and brought immense joy. #TuscanFortress #CreativeRetreat #AnnetteJoseph #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #TuscanStyle #HistoricProperty #WorkshopVenue #ItalianDesign

Architect Nicolás Campodonico designed Casa T&G;, a two-story residence in Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina, characterized by its distinctive faceted concrete facade. The design prioritizes privacy from the busy street while creating a rich and varied internal spatial experience. The house is conceptualized as a concrete volume strategically placed between two courtyards: a front courtyard shielded by the opaque concrete facade and a rear courtyard bordered by a glazed wall. The exterior of Casa T&G; features a bare concrete facade with triangular facets, creating a folded appearance that distinguishes it from its urban surroundings. This T-shaped facade, constructed using a combination of prefabricated and cast in-situ concrete, acts as a screen to protect the private living areas from the public street. The vertical stem of the 'T' separates the pedestrian and vehicle entrances, with the concrete appearing to be diagonally folded at its center, imparting a unique visual emphasis to each entry point. Upon entering, a deliberate sequence of spaces unfolds, moving between covered, open, closed, and re-covered areas, enhanced by varied lighting and material palettes. This spatial progression aims to create diverse atmospheres and visual interest throughout the home. The architect emphasized that the variety of sections within the house provides different dimensions and distinct points of light entry, which animate the spaces and create a dynamic interplay of tension. The entrances are secured with black metal gates featuring diagonal grillwork, leading into a covered, paved parking area that transitions into a gravel courtyard. Within this courtyard, two slanted white walls guide visitors towards the main living areas, forming a funnel-shaped corridor. Stepping stones laid across the gravel define a pathway. These white walls extend into the house's interior, delineating a kitchen on one side and a bathroom and bedroom on the other. Clerestory windows are positioned above these angled walls, allowing natural light to penetrate the concrete ceiling slab. The ground floor primarily hosts a large living room, featuring polished concrete floors, white walls, and exposed concrete ceiling slabs. A significant glazed wall at the rear of this space incorporates wide sliding doors that open directly onto a terrace and an expansive garden beyond. A thick concrete strip, slightly lower than the internal ceiling, spans the boundary walls, forming a canopy over the terrace. A slender strip of glass fills the gap between the two slab heights, aligning with the height of the clerestory windows in the bedroom and kitchen. An internal well near the kitchen houses wooden stairs, leading to the upper level which contains an additional bedroom and bathroom, both featuring matching wooden floors. Floor-to-ceiling windows on this upper floor offer views of the gravel-covered garage rooftop and the concrete parapet of the facade, overlooking the street. An oblong section of grey concrete extends from one side of the upper story and rests atop the facade, providing a partial screen for privacy from adjacent properties. The architectural design of Casa T&G; skillfully balances privacy and openness, utilizing a robust material palette of concrete, glass, and wood to create a contemporary and functional living environment. The strategic placement of courtyards and windows, combined with the distinctive facade, contributes to a home that is both an architectural statement and a sanctuary within an urban setting. #CasaTG #NicolasCampodonico #ArgentinianArchitecture #ConcreteFacade #CourtyardHouse #Rosario #SantaFe #ModernResidentialDesign #UrbanPrivacy

Thais and Roberto Alcalay, a couple with a keen eye for modern design, embarked on a journey to build their dream home in Naples' Pine Ridge Estates. Having relocated from Brazil to the United States in 2004 and subsequently to Fort Myers in 2007, they found themselves desiring a modern aesthetic, which proved challenging to find in the existing Naples market. This led them to collaborate with architect John Cooney of Stofft Cooney Architects and Scott McConnelee of BUILD, a construction company renowned for luxury modern homes. Thais Alcalay, an interior designer by profession, played a pivotal role in the project. She arrived at initial consultations with extensive documentation, including detailed descriptions of each room, desired materials, and even plumbing specifications, surprising both the architect and the builder with her meticulous planning. This thorough preparation was the result of years of research and a clear vision for their new home, which they felt should reflect their current lifestyle, contrasting with the French-style home they once owned in Brazil. The resulting 5,500-square-foot, four-bedroom (plus office), five-and-a-half-bathroom residence embodies a modern aesthetic without being stark or cold. The exterior is characterized by a series of layered cubes, cantilevers, voids, windows, and solid walls, showcasing movement and varied textures. Cooney skillfully incorporated different materials such as stucco and wood to create visual interest and juxtaposition. The Alcalays' preference for movement over simple squares and angles was a driving force behind the architectural design. Inside, the home maintains an open and free-flowing atmosphere. Common areas are subtly defined by ceiling details, lighting, and box beams. A consistent neutral palette is established throughout most of the home with grayish METAL.IT tile by Emil Group, which is inspired by brushed steel and extends to the baseboards, providing a cohesive backdrop for other design elements. This flooring choice allows the predominantly Italian and Brazilian furniture, along with other thoughtful details, to stand out. A significant feature in the great room is a 14-foot-high feature wall made of six Italian tile slabs that mimic marble, designed by Thais, with an LED shaft running along its perimeter. In the kitchen, a mix of cabinet heights, surfaces, and tones is present, with painted wood cabinets wrapping around high-end appliances and glass sections offering views of the pool. A main island is practical with two sinks, while a second island serves as a showpiece with Pompeii quartz extending to the floor. The design also emphasizes a connection to the outdoors, with large sliders offering views of the pool and outdoor kitchen from the great room, and three of the four bedrooms enjoying pool views. An intimate conversation area near the great room features Désirée Ego swivel chairs and copper Tom Dixon pendants, all positioned to appreciate the surrounding landscape. The primary suite continues the clean lines, featuring a padded gray headboard and a spa-like bathroom with a floating vanity over illuminated river stones and a generously sized shower. Even Roberto's specific request for a workspace above the garage was integrated, ingeniously cantilevered to enhance the home's unique design. The detailed initial planning by the Alcalays, particularly Thais, proved to be both the greatest challenge and a significant factor in the project's success. All illustrations are courtesy of Robin Hill Photography. #HomeDesign #ModernArchitecture #NaplesRealEstate #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #PineRidgeEstates #ArchitecturalDesign #ResidentialConstruction

The article presents a detailed tour of the Milan apartment belonging to Jay Vosoghi and Sara Mostofi, the creative duo behind the design studio R+D Lab. Located on Via Andrea Verga, the 1960s building, designed by Asnago Vender, was chosen by Vosoghi for its architectural integrity, a reflection of Milan's post-World War II architectural boom. The apartment, largely preserved in its original form, showcases a thoughtful blend of classic Italian design and Japanese influences, mirroring the city's dichotomy of old and new. The exterior of Via Andrea Verga 4, along with a rare red travertine path leading to a light-filled lobby, sets the stage for the unique living space. The entrance features a glass-enclosed vestibule, which separates the day and night areas of the home, a common architectural approach in Italy during that period. This vestibule is adorned with midcentury Italian teak shelving holding a vintage collection of Kokeshi Japanese wood dolls, Japanese lacquerware and ceramics, and a Vico Magistretti table lamp, immediately establishing the couple's eclectic taste. The living room, or 'salotto,' and dining area are designed to create a cohesive yet distinct space, avoiding the need for physical walls to separate functions. Here, two Sesann sofas by Gianfranco Frattini are bathed in natural light, complemented by Japanese Meiji period hand-embroidered cloth. The furniture arrangement encourages a natural flow for social gatherings, starting with dinner at a Tin-K by Kristalia dining table surrounded by 1960s Cesca chairs, and then transitioning to the sitting area for after-dinner conversations and drinks like amaro or Japanese whiskey. Throughout the apartment, the original wood floors, light fixtures, and windows have been maintained, highlighting the architects' comprehensive design approach that extended to the interiors. The kitchen and service quarters lead to two bedrooms and two bathrooms, with one bedroom serving as the couple’s dedicated workspace. This studio features a vintage Gian N. Gigante light, an Achille Castiglioni-designed Leonardo table as a desk, and DSC chairs by Giancarlo Piretti. The studio walls are decorated with inspiring artwork, and a 19th-century kilim grounds the space. The home acts as a living embodiment of R+D Lab's aesthetic ethos, which Vosoghi describes as highly architectonic. Their glassware collections, such as 'Luisa' and 'Helga,' are named after significant architectural figures, demonstrating the deep connection between their personal environment and their professional work. The apartment is filled with pieces by modern Italian designers like Frattini, Gae Aulenti, and Tobia Scarpa, alongside Japanese lacquerware, antique rugs, and a diverse art collection. The bedroom features a Tobia Scarpa-designed Vanessa Bed dressed in R+D Lab bedding, a Toio lamp, and a 1960s Osvaldo Borsani console, all set against a 1920s Art Deco antique Chinese rug. Vosoghi and Mostofi's daily routine includes visits to local Milanese establishments like Pasticceria Marchesi and strolls through Parco Sempione, emphasizing how the city itself serves as a constant source of inspiration. The objects within their home reflect their travels and experiences, but the overarching influence of Milan's beauty and architectural heritage is paramount to their creative process, illustrating how their environment deeply infuses their artistic endeavors. #MilanHome #DesignStudio #ItalianArchitecture #MidcenturyModern #RDLabs #InteriorDesign #HomeTour #GianfrancoFrattini #JapaneseInfluence

This article explores the careers and notable contributions of three prominent furniture designers: Antonio Citterio, Rodolfo Dordoni, and Piero Lissoni, each known for their significant impact on the home furnishing industry through architectural and industrial design. It highlights their individual approaches, key collaborations, and signature pieces that have shaped contemporary design. Antonio Citterio, born in 1950 in Meda, is a two-time Compasso d’Oro winner and a graduate of the Polytechnic of Milan. His career is marked by collaborations with leading manufacturers such as Vitra, Flexform, Flos, and Kartell. Citterio has also served as the art director for B&B Italia and Maxalto, overseeing their retail showrooms globally. In 1999, he co-founded Antonio Citterio and Partners with Patricia Viel, a multidisciplinary firm that gained recognition for projects with Bulgari Hotels and Resorts, including the Bulgari Hotel in Milan (2004), the Bulgari Resort (2006), and the Bulgari restaurant and cafe in Tokyo (2007). He was honored with the Royal Designer for Industry award in 2007. His iconic furniture designs for B&B Italia include seating solutions like “Charles,” “Ray,” “Richard,” and “Diesis.” For Flexform, his best-selling “Groundpiece” sofa, a modular system featuring integrated coffee tables, shelves, and caddies, exemplifies his practical and adaptable design philosophy. Rodolfo Dordoni, a Milanese designer born in 1954, earned an architecture degree from the Polytechnic of Milan in 1979. He is celebrated for his elegant, essential, and innovatively detailed designs. Dordoni has provided art direction and corporate identity for numerous high-end Italian design brands, including Artemide (glass collection), Cappellini, Fontana Arte (furniture collection), Foscarini (lamps), Minotti, and Roda. His extensive work with Dolce & Gabbana since 1995 involved coordinating their image across various aspects, from their Milan headquarters to showrooms and boutiques worldwide. In 2005, he established Dordoni Architect Studios with Alessandro Acerbi and Luca Zaniboni, specializing in residential and commercial architectural planning and interior design. Dordoni’s success is rooted in a traditional and thorough design process that encompasses image strategies, product concepts, design development, and marketing. His designs are characterized by their emphasis on structure, proportion, and elegant functionality. Since 1998, Dordoni has been the art director for Minotti, a partnership that thrives on shared aesthetic principles and a commitment to blending tradition with technology to create premium “Made in Italy” products. His notable designs for Minotti include the “Hamilton” sofa and “Hopper” lounge chair. Piero Lissoni is another highly influential furniture designer who studied Architecture at the Politecnico di Milano, graduating in 1985. He began his career collaborating as a designer and art director with manufacturers such as Boffi, Living Divani, and Porro. In 1986, Lissoni co-founded Lissoni Associati with Nicoletta Canesi, and in 1996, they established Graph.x for graphic projects. The studio’s scope spans architectural, graphic, and industrial design, covering furniture, accessories, kitchens, bathrooms, lighting, corporate identity, advertising, catalogues, and packaging. Lissoni’s interior design portfolio includes hotels, showrooms, trade stands, private residences, shops, and yachts. His architectural projects include a private loft in Monza (2009), a villa near Como (2005), apartments in Milan and Tuscany (2010), and the Mamilla Hotel in Jerusalem (2009), along with various hotel renovations and new builds globally. He also designed showrooms for major brands like Boffi, Cassina, Porro, and Tecno, and renovated headquarters for Living Divani, Glas Italia, and Matteograssi. Lissoni’s firm has also undertaken unique projects such as the interior design for the 27-meter sailing yacht Ghost (2005) and the 50-meter motor yacht Tribù (2007) for Luciano Benetton. Graph.x has managed corporate identity for the Mostra Internazionale d’Arte Cinematografica di Venezia. In 2010, the studio won a competition to rehabilitate a piazza in Maranello and construct a panoramic tower for the Galleria Ferrari museum. Today, Lissoni Associati employs over 70 professionals, working with clients like Alessi, Boffi, Cappellini, Cassina, Flos, Fritz Hansen, Glas Italia, Kartell, Knoll International, and Lema. His prominent furniture designs include the “8” sofa for Cassina, “Softline” sofas for Living Divani, and the “Materic” table for Porro. #FurnitureDesigners #ItalianDesign #AntonioCitterio #RodolfoDordoni #PieroLissoni #HomeDecor #LuxuryInteriors #ArchitecturalDesign #IndustrialDesign

This article highlights how designer Suzanne Costa transformed four units in the Parkview at Cambier development, all sharing the same 3,900-plus-square-foot floor plan, into distinct living spaces tailored to each homeowner's unique taste. Costa's initial work involved selecting hand-poured Kinon Surface Design panels for cabinetry and Cambria quartz surfaces, among other high-end finishes. The subsequent challenge arose from the diverse preferences of the well-traveled and culturally astute clients, each desiring a personalized interior. The design process involved an artistic collaboration, with Costa working to integrate existing art collections and homeowner aesthetics into the uniform layouts. For units 201 and 202, she cataloged homeowners' art to inspire design motifs. For unit 301, Costa incorporated the client's appreciation for nature and local art, helping him build a collection of vibrant, biophilic works from Naples artists. Across all units, art served as a central theme, influencing material choices, color palettes, and the overall mood. The prevalence of white walls and a strong emphasis on lighting were consistent features, creating gallery-like settings. Custom kitchen cabinetry, designed by Marcus Jelley and inspired by Japanese pottery, provided a unifying element across the units, yet Costa's approach allowed for significant personalization. Unit 301, dubbed "Where Nature and Art Collide," features a top-floor design rooted in local Naples art, with pieces by Juan Carlos Collada, Tom Manziano, and Diane Whiting. Collada’s *Let the Sun Shine* greets guests in the foyer, while his sculptural totem blurs the lines between natural and man-made elements. The condo heavily utilizes wood, with dark tones like high-gloss rosewood adding a "rich, smoky opulence," contrasting with typical coastal light hues. A custom wine and bourbon bar with Cristallo quartzite, salmon Kravet chairs, and a Vanguard bed with Kelly Wearstler fabric contribute to a luxurious yet natural ambiance. The lanai patio extends this natural theme with a live-edge dining table and cedar ceiling details, reflecting Southwest Florida's sandy palette. Unit 202, titled "The Old World Goes Contemporary," presented the challenge of merging diverse elements from world-traveling owners, including Balinese carvings, Parisian oil paintings, and heirloom furniture, into a cohesive contemporary design. The great room blends a hand-woven Pakistani rug with a Kravet acrylic coffee table and a curved sofa. A stone fireplace displays Asian objets d’art and Murano glass sculptures. Costa meticulously staged the client’s global art collection, using elements like an intricately carved piece on tigerwood shelving and a sustainable fiber wallpaper. The Luxe Light & Home PIRELLI Chandelier 30 in the foyer exemplifies the focus on lighting to highlight artwork. The office combines Parisian oil paintings with an antique desk. The primary bedroom evokes Art Deco glamour with crystal pendant lighting, Spanish hand-embroidered Gianti drapery, and a Kravet Versailles velvet bed in turquoise blue, complementing gold-framed paintings, notably *Romeo and Juliet* from Azerbaijan. Finally, unit 201, a "Black-and-White and Bespoke All Over" design, caters to a Canadian homeowner's modern art and masculine aesthetic. This unit features extensive black wall coverings and large backdrops for a spectacular art collection, contrasted with white furnishings and finishes. The foyer immediately establishes this contrast with an ivory-white grand piano set against white-on-black abstract figurative works. The dining area includes black Phillip Jeffries wall coverings with a technicolor abstract expressionist painting by Arthur Potts. White cerused oak kitchen cabinets by Marcus Jelley and white fabric Barbara Barry chairs maintain the minimalist color scheme, while the painting adds dynamic flair. The bedroom introduces novel neutrals and rich mauve velvet drapery by Kravet. Costa collaborated with Toronto-based furniture designer David Powell to create custom swivel chairs for the bedroom, aligning with the client's lifestyle. Throughout the two-year project, Costa's bespoke detailing and deep understanding of her clients resulted in distinctly personalized spaces. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #SuzanneCosta #LuxuryCondos #ArtIntegration #CustomInteriors #NaplesFlorida #ModernArt #GlobalInspiredDesign

The Spectral Bridge House in Venice, California, is a collaborative architectural and art project between architectural firm EYRC and light and space artist Johannes Girardoni. This residence transcends typical home design by integrating an immersive light sculpture, also named 'Spectral Bridge,' into its core, creating a unique living experience. The house is situated on a narrow lot within an urban neighborhood, approximately a mile from the beach, and is thoughtfully designed to harmonize with its surroundings while offering a distinct aesthetic. The residence is composed of three two-story living blocks, each featuring monolithic shapes with intentionally irregular angles and rotated axes. These design choices ensure the house's scale is sensitively integrated with neighboring properties. The ground-level volume is distinguished by a shou sugi ban exterior, a traditional Japanese method of charring wood cladding, which provides a rich, dark contrast to the white-hued monolithic exteriors of the remaining volumes. These living areas are arranged linearly, opening up to various outdoor spaces on both the ground and upper floors, including multiple decks, gardens, and a pool court. An additional roof deck on the central volume offers another layer of outdoor space, providing views over the neighborhood. The central artistic element, 'Spectral Bridge,' connects the three living blocks. It links the first two buildings via a bridge enclosed within a glass atrium and the subsequent two structures through an exterior bridge. This sculptural piece operates on a pre-programmed schedule synchronized with sunrise and sunset, generating a dynamic display of shifting color sequences that evolve throughout the year, reflecting the full spectrum. From the interior, residents and visitors experience the artwork as a series of spaces defined by illuminated lines, vibrant color volumes, and ambient sound, transforming the home into an interactive environment. When viewed from the exterior, the bridge manifests as a luminous physical volume, acting as a unified light sculpture that visually binds the architectural components. Inside the home, an 'art lounge' is centrally located between the two bridges, serving as a dedicated space for colored light and sound baths. This area is flanked by separate bedroom wings, providing private sanctuaries within the artistic dwelling. The project was conceived as a 'vessel for living and art,' seamlessly blending function with artistic expression. This integration of architecture and art aims to create an environment where the residents are continuously enveloped in a sensory experience orchestrated by light and color, enhancing their daily lives. The total size of the Spectral Bridge House is 4,076 square feet, showcasing a thoughtful balance between innovative design, artistic integration, and functional residential living. #ResidentialArchitecture #LightSculpture #VeniceCalifornia #EYRCArchitects #JohannesGirardoni #ShouSugiBan #IntegratedArt #ModernHomeDesign

Refugium Amoris, a hideaway apartment located on the top floor of a Venetian palazzina in Venice’s Cannaregio district, has undergone a restoration led by architect Francesco Pugliese. This project aimed to preserve and reinterpret the building's historical elements, offering a unique opportunity to experience Venetian architectural heritage from within its urban fabric. The apartment faces the Strada Nuova and features a rooftop terrace overlooking the Ponte delle Guglie, strategically placing it at an intersection of public and private life in Venice. The restoration process focused on revealing and restoring original Venetian features, notably exposed wooden beam ceilings and terrazzo floors. The terrazzo, crafted from marble and local stone chips, connects the interior aesthetically and materially to the lagoon environment. The exposed timber ceilings contribute to the spatial volume, transforming structural elements into architectural statements. Interior furnishings from Boselli, a Venetian design house, were selected to blend traditional substance with contemporary design, maintaining a dialogue between historical context and modern refinement. These pieces emphasize natural materials like leather, solid wood, and metal, treated to highlight their raw textures. A significant design element is the use of Fortuny textiles as wall coverings. These fabrics, produced on the island of Giudecca using traditional looms and printing techniques, add a layer of sensory depth. Their hand-pressed pigments and subtle reliefs interact with light and shadow, creating dynamic chromatic shifts throughout the day. The rooftop terrace is furnished with Fermob outdoor pieces, extending the living space and offering views of the city's rooftops and the Ponte delle Guglie. The durable, weather-resistant materials of the Fermob furniture align with the apartment’s refined and minimal aesthetic. Art is an integral part of the interior design, with works by Sicilian artist Elisa Anfuso providing a subtle contrast to the historic setting. Anfuso's surreal figuration prompts contemplation on the relationship between figuration and abstraction, and between history and contemporary elements within the space. Refugium Amoris eschews traditional hotel amenities, positioning itself as a private retreat focused on spatial quality, craftsmanship, and locally sourced design. Digital interfaces are minimized to promote engagement with the physical space and its materials. Natural light is prioritized, managed through Venetian shutters, while artificial lighting is warm and indirect, designed to accentuate materials and art. This deliberate layering of historical components with contemporary design elements establishes a continuum, inviting guests to inhabit a space that is deeply connected to Venice's history. The apartment offers a sanctuary within the dense urban environment of Venice, encouraging a slower pace of experience where details such as the texture of the floor, the weave of a Fortuny textile, or the city silhouette become focal points. The design emphasizes analog living, free from the distractions of conventional digital interfaces, providing a retreat that values authenticity and quiet reflection. #VenetianArchitecture #HistoricRestoration #InteriorDesign #LuxuryApartment #RefugiumAmoris #FrancescoPugliese #FortunyTextiles #Venice #HideawayApartment

A-List designer David Netto embarked on a design project for a New York apartment, facing an initial challenge in defining a strong conceptual direction. The clients, who had combined two apartments in a 1929 Greenwich Village building, trusted Netto’s vision, allowing him to propose unconventional room-to-room connections for a more open, loft-like layout. The turning point arrived during a meeting when the client’s Italian name inspired Netto to create an "Italian New York apartment," not necessarily for the famous Agnelli family, but infused with their sophisticated spirit. The core concept involved radical combinations of old and new, emphasizing quality above all. This approach integrated traditional architecture with modern art, juxtaposing 18th-century antiques and silver with contemporary furniture. The client’s preference for a joyful color palette further guided the aesthetic. The project involved carefully curated objects and their unexpected pairings. For instance, the gallery features Louis XV blue and white ormolu-mounted cachepots from Emilio Terry and a cabinet from Henri Samuel, alongside chairs by Carlo Scarpa. The living room showcases a Noa mosaic coffee table by Elisabeth Garouste complementing a George III armchair from Gerald Bland. The library is anchored by an iron and leather desk inspired by Jean Michel Frank, an antique Louis XVI Fauteuil de Bureau, custom rift oak paneling, an antique rug by Katie Leede, and a sectional sofa upholstered in cinnamon-hued Claremont linen velvet. Throughout the apartment, contemporary Bonacina pieces are prominent. The finishes contribute significantly to the apartment's unique character, such as faux Iznik tiles in the kitchen backsplash, inspired by museum patterns, and a zigzag brown and white Parish Hadley floor in the music room. The dining room makes a bold statement with Zuber’s Combats des Grecs wallpaper, providing a vivid and sensual backdrop, subtly contrasted by contemporary rattan chairs by India Mahdavi. A more subtle Italian influence is observed in the higher mounting of door hardware, reminiscent of Venetian palazzos, an effect Netto previously witnessed in a theatrical New York apartment designed by Renzo Mongiardino. This detail aims to create a sensual rather than purely visual experience, encouraging an unfamiliar interaction with the space. The design process also involved defending choices, such as the use of architectural mirrors to enhance light and add glamour, which Netto argued would ultimately make walls “invisible.” The successful execution of the design is encapsulated as a recipe: a mix of art, boldness, and quality; a blend of 21st and 18th-century elements; a strong point of view; and, most importantly, a space meant for enjoyment and entertaining. This design philosophy emphasizes that successful decorating engages multiple senses beyond sight, contributing to a truly immersive and personal living environment. The article highlights the importance of client trust and a clear design concept in transforming an ordinary space into an extraordinary one, reflecting a unique blend of cultures and eras through thoughtful curation and audacious choices. #ItalianChic #NewYorkApartment #DavidNetto #InteriorDesign #EclecticStyle #LuxuryInteriors #HomeDecor #DesignProcess #ArtAndAntiques

This article showcases six distinctive homes across the United States, each featuring significant Italian architectural and design influences. The properties range from historic estates to modern villas, demonstrating how Italian aesthetics, from grand Renaissance styles to rustic Tuscan elements, have been integrated into American residences. These homes highlight various Italian-inspired features, including Palladian windows, arched doorways, intricate stenciled beams, marble accents, and specific room designs like wine cellars and Italian farm-style kitchens. The first featured home, Villa Amore in San Antonio, Texas, was built in 1922 and commissioned for an Italian wife, reflecting classic Italian design with its arched doorways, Palladian windows, and a 1,000-bottle wine room. Its exterior boasts an imported marble fountain, a pool, and an al fresco fireplace, accompanied by a carriage house. Next is a Tuscan-style four-bedroom home on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, constructed in 2004. This property incorporates reclaimed beams, Italian stone, heart-of-pine floors, a 1,000-bottle wine room, and an Italian farm-style kitchen. Its waterfront location offers panoramic views, a pool, a private beach, and direct access to the Intercoastal Waterway. In Nyack, New York, Palazzo Mare stands as a 15th-century-style Venetian villa built in 2001 on the Hudson River. Characterized by its ornate front door, a grand staircase, 27-foot ceilings, and Corinthian columns, the villa also includes a master suite with a green marble bathroom and a spa tub. The property extends to a sandy beach, a pier, and a pool with a spa. The Rialto House in Venice, California, built in 1905, was part of Abbot Kinney's vision for "Venice of America." This four-bedroom home features hardwood floors, Islamo-Byzantine stained-glass windows, a marble-floored sunroom, and an Italian-tile bathroom. A notable addition is an 840-square-foot guesthouse situated above the garage. Casa del Sole in Newport, Rhode Island, is an early 20th-century Palladian mansion extensively renovated in 2017. Owned by former Olympic figure skater Michelle Kwan, the four-bedroom home showcases marble floors, a chef's kitchen, two fireplaces, and formal living and dining rooms that open to a loggia. The two-acre landscaped property includes a fire pit and various seating areas. Finally, the Rohlfing House in Attica, Indiana, an Italianate brick home built in 1887 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, underwent a three-year renovation completed in 2010. This renovation preserved historical elements such as period fixtures, original woodwork, oil-on-canvas wall coverings, a stained-glass window, and the kitchen’s original sink and prep room. These properties collectively illustrate the enduring appeal and versatile application of Italian design principles in diverse American settings. #ItalianArchitecture #HomeDesign #LuxuryHomes #RealEstate #ArchitecturalStyles #HistoricHomes #InteriorDesign #TuscanStyle #VenetianVilla

French-Mexican architect and designer Hugo Toro undertook his largest private home project to date: the revitalization of a historic 1911 house on the Left Bank of Paris. This sprawling residence, spanning over 10,000 square feet across six floors, had remained vacant for more than 15 years and was in a state of considerable disrepair upon Toro's initial visit in February 2022. The house featured ornate gilded plasterwork suffering from water damage and mold, with paint peeling from the walls, revealing a fusty Empire red beneath. The brief from the French family acquiring the property was to bridge the gap between the building's historical integrity and contemporary living, respecting its original character while infusing it with a distinct modern vision. Their sole specific request was the inclusion of a fish tank, leading to the installation of a two-and-a-half-ton aquarium in the family room. To achieve this, Toro embarked on a process of unearthing the house’s inherent charm. This involved restoring original elements such as the Art Nouveau curves of the window frames and uncovering a more muted, authentic color palette by meticulously scraping back layers of old paint. The renovation resulted in a blend of classic Parisian grandeur, characterized by soaring high ceilings, expansive windows, wainscoting, meticulously restored moldings, and traditional herringbone floors. This opulence is juxtaposed with a lively 1970s aesthetic, conveyed through a warm amber-hued palette, rich tactile materials, and statement furniture featuring curved, organic shapes. Toro, who admits to appreciating the playful spirit of the 1970s, incorporated this influence to create a vibrant yet elegant atmosphere. Aluminum accents, used for doors, door frames, and cabinetry, were strategically placed to define volumes, add modern polish, and provide a contemporary contrast to the warmth of the wood paneling. The renovated house now boasts six bedrooms, six bathrooms, a swimming pool, a spacious rooftop terrace, and a garden. The interior design showcases several bespoke elements by Toro, including a serpentine sofa in the living room, a seven-meter-long Murano glass chandelier illuminating the central spiral staircase, and a custom platform bed in the principal bedroom designed to create a transitional moment for bedtime. The principal bathroom features a swirling green onyx washbasin and tub, reflecting a luxurious and distinctive material choice. Toro's artistic flair extends to several of his own paintings adorning the walls, which, while distinct from his architectural work, share a common thread of rich texture and a sepia-toned, enveloping palette, influenced by his French-Mexican heritage. The ground-floor family room, designed for comfort and interaction, includes a plush caramel-velvet sofa by Toro, Michel Cadestin’s Yoga chairs, a round glass coffee table, an arcade game, and a football table, demonstrating a commitment to creating a functional and enjoyable family space. The dining room features 1959 Böhlmarks chandeliers, a custom-made rug, and tables designed by Toro, complemented by 1950s chairs by Arne Jacobsen. In the office, a chair by Nacho Carbonell is paired with Maurice Calka's 1971 Boomerang desk. Every aspect of the home's design is intended to immerse and inspire, fostering a warm and interactive environment for its occupants, suitable for year-round use and reflecting the family’s passions. Toro emphasizes that the goal was not merely to create an aesthetically pleasing image but an engaging space that truly invites living and interaction. #HugoToro #ParisianMansion #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #LuxuryHomes #ArchitecturalRevitalization #FrenchArchitecture #ContemporaryDesign #HistoricHomes

In São Paulo, a city known for its subtropical climate, the desire for ample outdoor living space is paramount. This was the driving force behind the commissioning of Casa Bento. The homeowners, a couple who also work together and have two young daughters, sought to escape the limitations of their previous traditional residence, which lacked seamless flow between its interior spaces and the surrounding garden. Their vision was a home designed for extensive entertaining of family and friends, both indoors and out. Architect Flavio Castro, founder of FCstudio, whose architectural philosophy centers on responsiveness to evolving lifestyles, was tasked with realizing this vision. The clients had acquired a lot on Rua Bento de Andrade, their childhood street in the desirable Jardim Paulista neighborhood, a verdant yet bustling area. Castro's primary challenge was to design a structure that would shield the occupants from street noise and views of neighboring properties, while simultaneously fostering an open, airy atmosphere deeply integrated with the lushly landscaped site. The resulting 4,560-square-foot, two-story residence, a 2022 Best of Year Winner for Small City House, is strategically positioned in the center of the walled lot. It features a design resembling a metal box resting on robust board-formed concrete sidewalls. The ground floor's end facades are fully glazed, creating a visual connection between the entry hall and the parking courtyard at the front, and harmoniously blending indoor and outdoor living areas at the back. In contrast, the second story is clad in folded steel lamina, a material also used for the street fence which can pivot upwards to allow car access. A narrow clerestory crowns the upper level, presenting a solid facade to passersby during the day but illuminating with a halo-like glow at night. The metal box design opens up significantly at the rear, where a continuous band of sliding glass windows extends across most of the back facade and partially along a sidewall. This glazing encloses the main bedroom, providing abundant natural light and views of the verdant garden below. These windows are equipped with large Cor-Ten steel shutters that function as a brise-soleil, effectively deflecting intense sunlight and ensuring complete privacy and quiet when closed. Cor-Ten steel, a material favored by Castro for its honesty, weather-resistant properties, and harmonious texture and color with the house's concrete, steel, and greenery, is also used for the front door. The ground level is dedicated to entertaining. Situated at the back of the house, the social zone includes a spacious living-dining area bordered by a large patio and garden on one side, and a galley kitchen on the other. The kitchen, encased in sumptuous pau ferro wood, features a wide, proscenium-like passthrough facilitating interaction during meal preparation. The dining area is defined by a custom jatoba wood table and Fernando Prado pendant fixtures, while the living area comprises a seating group with furniture by Sérgio Rodrigues and Claudia Moreira Salles. The patio, sheltered by the second-floor overhang, is furnished with a concrete dining table by Matthias Ambros von Holleben and an outdoor kitchen with teak doors. Cement pavers extend from the patio into the garden, leading to a small dipping pool, a metal firepit, and custom perforated-metal benches with integrated side tables and cachepots, all designed by FCstudio. A dramatic blackened-steel staircase, suspended from the entry hall ceiling like a Donald Judd sculpture, ascends to the second-floor family bedrooms. The open landing at the top spans the full width of the house and is deep enough to serve as a home theater. While window walls at either end of this space can be darkened with curtains and steel lamina shutters, the clerestory provides soft natural light during the day. Down a long corridor on the second floor are the daughters' bedrooms and the main suite. Each daughter's room features a platform bed with a whimsical painted-steel gable-roof frame, along with built-in storage. A floating concrete stair, echoing the sculptural quality of the main staircase, leads to a children's play area in the basement, where staff quarters, service areas, and storage are also located. Casa Bento, while named after its street, reflects the balanced functionality and aesthetic precision of a traditional Japanese bento box, with every element meticulously placed within its microcosm. #SãoPauloArchitecture #FCstudioDesign #OutdoorLiving #ModernHomeDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #ContemporaryBrazilianHome #CustomInteriors #SustainableMaterials #FamilyHome

Artemest's L’Appartamento exhibition, held during Milan Design Week, transformed a 20th-century Milanese mansion into a showcase of Italian craftsmanship through decorative interventions by six international interior designers. Each designer reimagined a room, creating immersive vignettes that seamlessly integrated with the mansion's authentic character while exclusively featuring contemporary art and furnishings from Italian artisans available through Artemest. The exhibition provided a unique platform for designers to blend their individual styles with Italian design heritage. Studio Meshary AlNassar curated the Entryway, infusing it with warm earthen tones inspired by Gulf landscapes. This space featured silhouettes reminiscent of classical colonnades, illuminated by a chandelier adorned with Murano glass sunflowers, setting an inviting and exotic ambiance upon entry. The adjacent Flower Room adopted a dreamlike aesthetic, utilizing pastel hues. It was further enhanced with Art Deco steles and mouth-blown vases, brimming with vibrant floral arrangements that lent an ethereal quality to the space. Elicyon designed the Cocktail Room, where playful bohemian textural expressions paid homage to the building's historical grandeur. This room was characterized by sensorial textural depth, exemplified by a long-hair fur lounge chair and wall-mounted rugs, creating a luxurious and inviting atmosphere. VSHD's Dining Room presented a striking juxtaposition of styles, blending minimalist modernism with richly ornamental baroque aesthetics. A whimsical paper chair was deliberately placed alongside Luciano Baldessari's Futurist floor lamp, creating an eclectic and dynamic dialogue between eras and design philosophies. Rottet Studio's classical Living Room embraced traditional elements such as wooden parquets, gilded brocade walls, and celadon wainscotting. This historical backdrop was enriched with contemporary touches like Venetian glass accents, a pyrite- and Cubism-inspired cabinet, and a dichroic glass table, which dynamically refracted light throughout the room, adding a modern sparkle to the classic setting. Tamara Feldman's Bedroom drew inspiration from Mexican haciendas, featuring robust terracotta textures and saturated red walls. The space was enlivened by biophilic elements, with glimpses of botanicals, natural wood, and stone, complemented by yellow and green hues that mirrored the foliage outside, connecting the interior with nature. The exhibition extended outdoors with GACHOT's Courtyard, conceived as a verdant extension of the interior spaces. This intimate outdoor living room offered lounge and dining areas, alongside a bar, all enveloped by local blossoms. A fire pit sculpted from local Dolomia stone served as a focal point, harmonizing with the delicate Murano drinking glasses and the rich burgundy tones of an iron bowl, creating a sophisticated and relaxing outdoor environment. This comprehensive exhibition highlighted the versatility of Italian craftsmanship and the innovative approaches of international designers in a historically rich setting. #MilanDesignWeek #Artemest #ItalianCraftsmanship #InteriorDesign #EclecticShowHouse #MansionInteriors #ContemporaryArt #MilaneseArchitecture

The Fakir Bari House, located in Kachina village within Bangladesh's Bhaluka district of Mymensingh, is a residential project completed in 2023 by Design Works Studio. The architectural design prioritizes a harmonious integration of family heritage, local culture, and natural surroundings, reflecting the client's desire for simplicity, minimal landscaping, and a pleasant living environment. A core principle guiding the project was the avoidance of tree removal; instead, additional trees were planted to enhance the site's ecological and aesthetic value. This approach contributes to a sustainable design philosophy by promoting biodiversity and green spaces within the residential setting. The house covers an area of 156 square meters, making it a moderately sized family dwelling. Key materials used in its construction include concrete and brick, chosen for their durability, local availability, and aesthetic qualities. The project involved a collaborative design team, including Shawon Biswas, Farhatul Jannat, and Tusher Ahmed Noor, with Rokonuzzaman as the lead architect. Technical support was provided by Soyeb Mohammad Shourav and Abid Hasan. This collaborative effort ensured a comprehensive approach to the design and construction, aligning with the client's vision and the project's environmental goals. Manufacturers such as Akij Ceramics, Berger Paints, KSRM, Shah Cement, Swish, and Tradexcel Ceramics supplied the materials, indicating a reliance on both local and regional suppliers to achieve the desired finishes and structural integrity. The design of Fakir Bari House reflects a commitment to creating a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing home that respects its context. The integration of natural elements, such as the deliberate planting of trees, aims to mitigate environmental impact and foster a connection between the inhabitants and their immediate landscape. The emphasis on 'minimal greenery' in the client's brief suggests a preference for a controlled yet natural outdoor space, possibly reflecting an urban or semi-urban context where dense vegetation might be impractical or undesirable. The use of concrete and brick, common in Bangladeshi construction, provides a robust and cost-effective structural framework while also allowing for various architectural expressions. The choice of these materials could also contribute to thermal comfort, a significant consideration in Bangladesh's climate. The project stands as an example of contemporary residential architecture in Bangladesh, balancing traditional values with modern design principles. The architects aimed to create a space that not only accommodates the functional needs of the family but also serves as a sanctuary that is deeply rooted in its location's identity. The inclusion of a project gallery with various photographs, including exterior views, interior shots of bedrooms and windows, and detailed facade images, demonstrates the comprehensive documentation of the completed structure. These visuals highlight the interplay of light and shadow, the texture of the materials, and the overall ambiance of the house. Plans, roof plans, and sections are also provided, offering insights into the spatial organization and structural details of the Fakir Bari House. The project's publication on ArchDaily, a prominent architecture platform, suggests its recognition within the architectural community for its design merits and contextual relevance. The overall design ethos of Fakir Bari House can be characterized by its thoughtful consideration of tradition, nature, and the specific needs of its inhabitants, resulting in a residence that is both functional and culturally sensitive. #ResidentialArchitecture #Houses #Bangladesh #DesignWorksStudio #ConcreteConstruction #BrickArchitecture #SustainableDesign #CulturalHeritage #ArchitecturalPhotography

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