Material Harmony in the Heart of Como with Ceppo di Gre and Metallic Finishes

Material Harmony in the Heart of Como with Ceppo di Gre and Metallic Finishes

by | Jul 10, 2024 | LIVING AREA, LIVING THE HOUSE, PRIVATE APARTMENT

In the enchanting setting of Como’s urban center, an architectural gem rises within a meticulously restored historic building. Here, in a perfect blend of history and modernity, lies an apartment we had the privilege of contributing to. The brainchild of the creative genius of the Studio Milo, this living space stands out for the captivating fusion of raw Ceppo di Gre and elegant bronze metallic finishes, accompanied by warm brick tones.

mobile ingresso

Material and Color Contrasts

The living area of the apartment is a masterpiece of material and color contrasts, where the natural roughness of Ceppo di Gre meets the sophisticated shine of metallic finishes. This combination not only gives the space a unique appearance but also creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere while maintaining timeless elegance.

The Equipped Wall: Functionality and Aesthetics

Upon crossing the threshold, you are greeted by a floor-to-ceiling equipped wall that impresses with its versatility. Made of wood painted with bronze metallic finishes, it is paired with a lower section consisting of ceramic doors with a Ceppo di Gre effect. These are designed to open downwards with a stop system that prevents contact with the floor, a solution that not only optimizes storage space but also adds a touch of practicality and ingenuity.

ingresso ceppo di Gre e finiture metalliche
metallic finishes
details lower part of furniture
details high part

The interiors of the upper part are finished in warm gray, with shelves offering ample organizational possibilities. The open compartments, with coordinated shelves in the same metallic finish, add further dynamism and functionality to the structure. One of the most fascinating features of the wall is the sliding door system that, when needed, reveals a wall-mounted television, integrating technology discreetly and elegantly.

details open spaces
detail sliding door system

The Bar Cabinet: A Touch of Elegance and Color

In the living room, next to a central pillar, is a refined bar cabinet in brick red tones. This distinctive piece features a lower section closed by doors that hide internal shelves, ideal for organizing glasses and bottles. The upper part, on the other hand, features backlit shelves that create a scenic effect, elegantly illuminating the bar area.

bar cabinet
details bar cabinet
details bar cabinet

The back of the cabinet is closed by a circular arch, in which a mirror reflects the slightly rounded dark wood dining table positioned in front. This play of reflections amplifies the perception of space, adding depth and a touch of sophistication. A classy detail is the recessed handle chains with a bronze finish, recalling the finishes of the rest of the furnishings and completing the living room’s aesthetic harmony.

Arches and rounded architectural details are making a comeback. Here is another example of a recent creation where an arch serves as a divider between two different home environments.

detail handle chains
material details
bar cabinet in front

The Home Office: A Haven of Creativity and Concentration

Moving away from the materials used in the living room but maintaining the same soft blue wallpaper background, you find the home office. This space is enclosed by bronze-finished frames, giving a sense of continuity with the rest of the apartment. Inside, a desk and shelves are entirely made of oak, where the wood finds its fullest expression.

home office prospective
home office details
details drawers

The multifunctional desk is a design masterpiece: it features a rounded corner, a part equipped with a pull-out shelf, and a cable pass-through at the back to maintain order. The wall shelves, illuminated by a study shelf light, provide an ideal environment for reading and working, adding a touch of warmth and coziness.

Here is an article entirely dedicated to home office corners designed for smart working.

home office closed and open
home office details
cable gland

Details that Make the Difference

In the living area, the vital core of this apartment on Lake Como, every detail has been meticulously curated. From the raw Ceppo di Gre to the selection of warm and welcoming colors, from the peculiarly designed wall lights to the double pair of ceiling spotlights, each element offer not only functionality but also a strong aesthetic value. The perfect lighting and the skillful placement of each piece enhance the entire environment. The fine materials and sophisticated finishes blend in perfect harmony, highlighting the natural beauty and inherent elegance of each detail.

mobile ceppo di gre e finiture metallizzate

An Invitation to Live in Style

This apartment represents the perfect meeting point between past and present, a place where history intertwines with modernity, creating a unique environment, designed to offer a bespoke living experience. The combination of Ceppo di Gre, with its rough and authentic texture, and the bronze metallic finishes, with their sophisticated charm, creates a harmonious dialogue between tradition and innovation.

Light and Shadow: The Magic of a Multifunctional Anthracite Gray Kitchen

Light and Shadow: The Magic of a Multifunctional Anthracite Gray Kitchen

by | Jun 21, 2024 | IN THE WORLD OF DESIGN, KITCHEN, LIVING AREA, LIVING THE HOUSE, PRIVATE APARTMENT

In a modern apartment just a stone’s throw from Bergamo, nestled at the edge of a quiet, green forest, we have designed an anthracite gray kitchen, crafted to be not only aesthetically refined but also extremely multifunctional.

anthracite gray kitchen

Kitchen Design

During the design phase, we considered the room’s square layout and the family’s habits. This led us to choose a corner kitchen, leaving the central space free for an extendable table, perfectly illuminated by a centrally positioned designer chandelier.

On the left side, the kitchen structure begins with a series of tall columns housing the pantry and ovens. From here, a long worktop extends to embrace the corner. One part of the countertop is equipped with high wall units, while the other part leaves space for a window overlooking the garden. Completing the opposite side, a large free-standing refrigerator is framed by a unit with a side pull-out.

anthracite gray kitchen front
kitchen details
sink details
wall units details

Multifunctional Additions

One of the most interesting aspects of the design is the retractable spice rack. By utilizing additional depth, we managed to integrate a pull-out system placed behind the initial columns. This element, which opens laterally to the induction hob, features compartments for spices, small accessories, and a paper towel holder, making everything within reach during food preparation.

Other useful components include trash can drawers, a foldable door in the cabinets, and a column with a front extraction system that allows access from both sides. These features enhance practicality and efficiency, making it a true multifunctional hub.

spice rack open and close
spice rack details
extraction system details

Materials and Finishes

Considering the very bright environment, we chose to dare with anthracite gray, a dark and striking color that contrasts with the predominant white. The oak veneer wall units complement the honey-toned wood-effect porcelain stoneware, bringing a touch of nature into the home.

The worktop is made of Lapitec, a high-performance ceramic material with a slightly speckled, rough texture. It harmoniously blends, almost merging, with the anthracite color of the kitchen and the sink in the same shade of granite.

At the back of the kitchen, a glossy white Lacobel panel, in the same shade as the wall, creates a clear contrast between the gray countertop and the wood of the cabinets.

We present two more examples of anthracite kitchens: the first is a corner kitchen with a cooking island, while the second features a C-shaped layout ending in a central peninsula.

timelapse open and close

Coordination in the Space

The TV cabinet, facing the kitchen, has also been designed and built in the same anthracite gray, completing the space in a discreet and harmonious manner. Comprising drawers and doors with internal shelves, it offers ample space for storing elements and accessories related to the living area and kitchen. Next to the television, wall elements in white, gray, and anthracite alternate, creating a play of shapes and symmetries that enrich the overall aesthetic of the space.

TV cabinet anthracite gray
details tv cabinet
details shelves
details cubes
detail front of the cabinet

Conclusions

There is no need to fear using dark colors, especially in bright environments or where white is predominant. In this project, anthracite gray was the perfect choice to balance the abundance of light tones, infusing the space with a decisive and refined elegance. This kitchen, combined with the living area, demonstrates how functionality and aesthetics can merge into perfect harmony.

Vintage Reflections: A Journey into the Interior Design of an Apartment in Milan

Vintage Reflections: A Journey into the Interior Design of an Apartment in Milan

by | Feb 16, 2024 | KITCHEN, LIVING AREA, LIVING THE HOUSE, PRIVATE APARTMENT

In the bustling heart of Milan, architect Lorenzo Visioli has breathed life into an apartment that seamlessly blends vintage charm with modernity through the skillful use of refined materials and details. Let’s explore how the soft reflections and captivating mirrors play a central role in this unique space that we’ve had the pleasure to furnish.

Reflections, mirrors and roundness

ENTRANCE

The entrance warmly welcomes guests with a floor covered in light gray mortar, illuminating a relatively narrow corridor. A service cabinet entirely clad in mirrors on one side visually expands this confined space, creating an effect of spaciousness and brightness. Inside the cabinet, shelves and hanging space add functionality without compromising style. 

Here’s another example of a mirror-clad cabinet welcoming at the entrance.

mobile entrance open closed
handle detail

KITCHEN CORNER

The kitchen, the heart of the home, embodies the fusion of style and functionality. Structured in a niche divided into two parts, with an equipped base and a frontal island, it stands out for the absence of conventional wall cabinets. In their place, vintage lamps in the style of “The Great Gatsby” illuminate the polished steel worktop, creating suggestive reflections that interact with the surrounding elements. The kitchen base, in a dark and clean tone, features concealed handles.

kitchen with island
kitchen zoom

A touch of originality is introduced by the niche beside the window, transformed into an open bar with crystal shelves hosting selected spirits. The presence of undulated glass, now a major trend, on each side reflects bottles and liquids, adding a touch of color. Internal LED lights make this element even more captivating when switched on.

open bar niche and window
niche open bar
wavy glass detail reflections

FUNCTIONAL STORAGE

A key element of functionality and discretion is the integrated storage in the bathroom, where a washer and dryer find their place alongside all necessary household tools. Two tall, lacquered doors, matching the wall color, fold onto themselves, creating a visual effect that imparts continuity and harmony to the surrounding environment. This approach not only optimizes the available space but also adds a touch of sophistication to the overall design, thanks to slim handles and meticulous finishes.

functional storage room
handle detail

LIVING AREA

A delicate arch connects the entrance to the living and kitchen areas, introducing a sense of softness while emphasizing the importance of access. The flooring transitions from industrial mortar to vintage parquet, laid in three different patterns to enliven the pace. Refined details, such as reflections playing on materials and shapes, contribute to creating a dynamic and enveloping ambiance.

Here’s another example where reflective materials play a significant role in the project.

arch living area entrance
parquet detail

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, this vintage-inspired project distinguishes itself through the reflections generated by carefully chosen materials. Each element, from the luminous mirrors to the reflective surfaces, contributes to amplifying the spatial sense and creating a unique dynamism. A perfect blend of past and present, transforming living into an exquisite and timeless experience.

Space Transformation: Corner Kitchen with Extendable Round Table

Space Transformation: Corner Kitchen with Extendable Round Table

by | Feb 7, 2024 | KITCHEN, LIVING AREA, LIVING THE HOUSE, PRIVATE APARTMENT

In this cottage nestled at the foot of Colle Ranichese, we have redesigned a corner kitchen. We made it compact and bright, paired with an extendable round central table, to redefine the spaces and internal flows of the living area.

lateral kitchen with round extendable table

KITCHEN: Maximizing Capacity and Organization

To ensure the maximum available storage space, elements develop vertically, reaching just below the shaped and illuminated plasterboard. Particularly, the wall cabinets provide extra space without compromising the clean aesthetics of the kitchen. Inside, shelves and pull-out drawers offer smart solutions for optimal organization. Ovens have been strategically placed in a column that closes the kitchen corner towards the living area, harmoniously reflecting an imposing opposite column. This hosts a large freestanding refrigerator, complete with an internal ice maker and dual temperature for a potential wine cellar in the lower part of the freezer.

In this article, another compact and functional corner kitchen in shades of gray is highlighted.

opening doors and drawers
doors opening with aventos
drawers with internal drawers
tidy dividers

MATERIALS: Resilience and Refinement in Every Detail

Material selection has been crucial to ensure both durability and style. The silk-effect One World laminate used for the external doors is very matte, deviating from the classic slightly reflective laminates, resembling almost a lacquered wood but with the robust properties that characterize it. Drawer guides, white to maintain chromatic cohesion, come with internal dividers for order. The Dekton countertop, a high-quality ceramic material, withstands thermal shocks and features a beautiful marbled color that harmonizes seamlessly with brown tones. The coffee-toned fragranite sink complements the countertop, completing the color harmony in the environment.

Resilience is also evident in this olive green laminate kitchen.

glimpse of the corner kitchen
details top and doors
details top and sink
details table

EXTENDABLE ROUND TABLE: Flexibility and Style

At the center of the kitchen space, we placed a Full Moon extendable round table from the Easy Line – Ozzio collection, chosen to meet the demand for accommodating more diners without compromising the surrounding space. The soft lines of the table echo the waves of the shaped ceiling, seamlessly integrating with the space. The double opening allows transforming the table from oval to circle, doubling its dimensions to accommodate twice the number of diners. The anthracite brown of the tabletop coordinates with other dark elements in the living area, while the wood texture recalls the wooden elements of windows and doors.

table open and close

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, this project has not only enhanced the functionality of the corner kitchen but has also created an aesthetically captivating space. The kitchen and the extendable round table embody the perfect fusion of practicality and design, transforming the living area into a welcoming and distinctive locale.

kitchen and livingroom

Furniture with a Minimalist Approach for Multifunctional Solutions

Furniture with a Minimalist Approach for Multifunctional Solutions

by | Jan 22, 2024 | IN THE WORLD OF DESIGN, KITCHEN, LIVING AREA, LIVING THE HOUSE, PRIVATE APARTMENT

In a valley rich in history, architectural and artistic presence, surrounded by the greenery of nature, a young family has discovered the perfect solution to optimize the spaces. Through innovative design, the focus has been on the living area, utilizing minimal and multifunctional furniture to create an open, bright, and versatile environment.

kitchen entrance and multifunctional stairs

THE MINIMAL KITCHEN

Integrated into a fitted wall, the kitchen embodies the essence of minimal. With a palette of light colors and the use of natural materials, it provides everything needed without burdening the space. The laminated natural oak wood countertop recalls the external wooded environment and accommodates a modern black granite sink and a induction hob.

The choice of matte white MDF for the kitchen base and refrigerator column, along with ceiling tiles, contributes to maintaining a clean and luminous aesthetic. The light and variegated gray ceramic floor complete the welcoming atmosphere, ensuring ease of maintenance and cleaning, harmonizing with the materials and colors of the house. 

minimal kitchen
details kitchen top
details kitchen top

THE MULTIFUNCTIONAL SIDE STAIRCASE

A light staircase in front of the kitchen serves a dual purpose. Besides connecting the living area to the sleeping area, it has been designed with a structure of modular equipped wood and metal, making it both aesthetic and functional.

It houses shaped drawers that provide additional storage space, avoiding the wall unit to the kitchen for maintaining a light and minimal appearance while providing all the necessary storage space in an unexpected location.

Here’s another example of a staircase solution equipped with drawers.

lateral stairs with drawers
drawers from the top
details drawers
shaped drawes

THE WELL-EQUIPPED LIVING AREA

The living area is designed with careful attention to internal flows related to space utilization. A laminated oak wood dining table, coordinated with the kitchen countertop, accommodates 4 to 6 diners and is positioned in a passageway between the kitchen and the living room. It is convenient and non-intrusive.

Upon entering the living area, the eye is drawn to a free-standing sofa against the wall with a slim high shelf in white lacquered sheet metal, contributing to maintaining a sense of openness and lightness. The frontal TV cabinet, acting as a partition between the kitchen and the living room and supporting the staircase, is an example of well-thought-out storage and organization element. Shaped on the steps, it contains well-studied doors and shelves, utilizing every available centimeter. A true demonstration of how minimalism can be functional. 

kitchen living room dining table
minimal living room
Tv cabinet open and close
lighted cabinet
lightweight sheet metal shelf

MINIMAL MULTIFUNCTIONAL FURNISHINGS

In conclusion, the entire apartment is an example of how multifunctional furnishings with a minimalistic spirit can optimize spaces without weighing them down. The most storage-intensive elements are integrated into the staircase support, while the upper part, thanks to glass handrails, rises transparent and luminous.

Everything around this central monolith of furnishings is essential, allowing to enjoy an airy, bright, tidy, and aesthetically satisfying environment. Living in a compact space does not imply sacrificing comfort and style.

Here’s another example of a minimal multifunctional apartment.

Walls Dividers and Custom Design in a Historic City Apartment

Walls Dividers and Custom Design in a Historic City Apartment

by | Dec 18, 2023 | LIVING THE HOUSE, PRIVATE APARTMENT, SLEEPING AREA

Within a historic city apartment, the renovation project aimed primarily at creating multifunctional furnishing solutions using partition walls created by using furnitures.

corridor with open and closed doors

THE PROJECT

In this phase of renewal, the challenge was to optimize spaces and create a welcoming environment. The core of the project was the implementation of double-sided partition walls, designed to serve both the corridor and the rooms. Taking advantage of the significant heights of the house, extraordinarily tall walls were created. The entrance doors, boldly in fiery red, along with the transom, left an upper space between the wardrobe and the beams, allowing natural light to filter through the large windows, illuminating both the rooms and the corridor. The depth of the elements harmoniously adapted to the pillars and the client’s needs, giving a unique identity to each space.

wardrobe with open and closed door

MATERIALS AND FINISHES

The play of reflections was achieved through the use of glossy milk-colored laminate for the dividing elements. The entrance doors to the rooms, also glossy and full of personality, appear in a vibrant fire red. The handles, essential for opening the doors with elegance, have a squared design in satin-finished steel and have been chosen for all wardrobes, creating a repeated pattern of visual elements. The interiors of the furniture, including additional ones, maintained the same milk-white tone but with a matte finish.

Here’s another realization with glossy surfaces paired with matte surfaces.

detail red door
detail shaped handles
detail internal drawer
detail open internal drawer

KID’S ROOM

The kid’s room has its unique identity, featuring a study corner with a cream-colored painted iron desk and a reflective Lacobel surface in milk color. Two side bookshelves with doors and internal shelves provide space to organize books and personal items. A wheeled bedside table, with a handle shaped in a recess, echoes the squared design of the door and wardrobe handles, adding a touch of versatility to the bed. This combination of gloss and matte creates a beautiful contrast and dynamism within the rooms.

kid's room lucid and matt
front desk
handles details
desk detail
desk detail
night table
night table handle
night table weels

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, this project has demonstrated how the strategic use of furniture that becomes partition walls can radically transform a space. Attention to design, adaptability to existing architectural elements, and the judicious choice of materials have made this historic home an example of balance between functionality and aesthetics, blending the classic with the modern and creating a unique and welcoming environment.

Here’s an example of double-sided functionality in a kitchen cabinet.

open closed double-sided sliding door