In the heart of Milan's Sant'Ambrogio neighborhood, a young couple, Vincenzo Ferrieri and Stefania Faraone Ferrieri, embarked on a design journey to transform their 1960s apartment. Their vision was to create a contemporary living space that respected the dwelling's original character and history. With the expertise of Lucrezia Calvi from LC Atelier, an esteemed AD100 Italy recognized studio, they meticulously blended modern aesthetics with cherished antique elements. This renovation focused on preserving the apartment's intrinsic spirit while updating it to reflect the couple's personal style and sophisticated sensibilities, resulting in a home that elegantly bridges the gap between eras.
Vincenzo and Stefania, hailing from the dynamic worlds of catering and fashion, recognized the profound potential within their new residence, despite years of neglect. Stefania articulated a clear vision for their abode: not merely a design project, but a 'sacred passing of the baton,' emphasizing their commitment to honoring the past. Key original features, such as the exquisite marble flooring, were carefully preserved, forming the foundation of the home's revitalized soul. This commitment to continuity guided their collaboration with Lucrezia Calvi, whose reputation for sensitive and thoughtful renovations made her the ideal partner for this unique endeavor.
Calvi's design philosophy centered on respecting each historical element as a cherished memory. She expertly introduced new materials, ensuring they harmoniously coexisted with the existing structure. This approach fostered a continuous dialogue between the old and the new, evident throughout the apartment. The kitchen, for instance, received a contemporary update while subtly echoing its former ambiance. White resin floors were introduced to complement cream-colored tiles, and a striking purple central island became a focal point, extending a distinctive color palette found in other areas of the home.
The integration of colors and textures was a deliberate choice. The purple Cipollino marble portal, a striking entrance to the kitchen, set the tone for the apartment's cohesive color scheme. Hallways adorned with straw wallpaper brought in earthy textures, fostering a living connection with natural materials like marble and Canaletto walnut. The living area, designed to flow seamlessly from the kitchen, featured a prominent Canaletto walnut bookcase, custom-built to frame a significant artwork by Emilio Isgrò, a 40th birthday gift for Vincenzo. This piece showcased the couple's diverse interests, displaying a model Riva motorboat alongside books on maritime themes, fashion, and culinary arts.
Even the private spaces, such as the main bedroom, embraced this layered approach to time. A restored 1960s headboard and custom-designed closet, upholstered in fabric and trimmed with Canaletto walnut, exemplify the thoughtful fusion of old and new. The compact study was designed around a built-in sofa, maximizing space and functionality. A charming nursery, decorated in soft cream and rose, was created with future growth in mind. Across all bathrooms, retro-style fixtures and furniture were juxtaposed with bespoke elements, further reinforcing the home's unique blend of vintage charm and contemporary design.
The entire residence is a testament to the art of integration, where vintage pieces from the 1960s and 1970s, including mirrors and chandeliers, are seamlessly woven into the modern interior. Calvi described these items as 'real time capsules,' forging a deep connection between the apartment's rich history and its new occupants. This careful curation allowed the original essence of the space to endure, while simultaneously accommodating the contemporary preferences and lifestyle of Vincenzo and Stefania, creating a truly personal and timeless sanctuary.