Page 91 - Designing Ways 272

A clean layout and a new atmosphere.
The project originated from the need to reorganise the spaces of
the apartment, which lacked a clear hierarchy in their sequence.
The main objective was to restore its functional and spatial order by
creating a cleaner layout and defining a new atmosphere through a
specific selection of materials and colours. In addition to the clients’
existing collection of design classics, the architects carefully selected
and integrated some contemporary pieces.

In the original layout, the presence of two opposing entrances turned
the living room into a thoroughfare. In the new layout, it was decided
to maintain a single entrance, creating a space that serves as a hallway
leading to the living area through two arched openings. This choice
represents, for the architects — who possess a deep familiarity with
historic buildings and the works of great Milanese architects — an
interpretation of Luigi Caccia Dominioni’s philosophy. He expressed
his dislike for a direct entrance into the living room, stating that it
“leaves no room for surprises.”

The living area, facing east, has been designed to be spacious and
fluid, with dedicated corners for various activities such as dining,
conversation, reading, and listening to music (the client has a small
collection of records and opera booklets). An integral part of the
new living area is the kitchen, which overlooks the living room
through a large custom-made painted steel window. The kitchen
has been designed as a seamless extension of the living space, where
daily actions such as food preparation and socialising unfold with
uninterrupted visual continuity. This fluidity is achieved through a
transparent glass partition, which becomes the canvas for presenting
a geometric composition of arched designs that create a subtle
illusion of depth. This graphical approach establishes a dialogue with
the patterns and hues of the entrance wallpaper, creating a visual
harmony between architectural elements.

dw • Issue 272 91