Italian architectural firm tissellistudioarchitetti has unveiled a remarkable renovation of a historic penthouse in Forlì, Italy. The project, carried out under the strict restoration guidelines of the Superintendency of Archaeology, Fine Arts, and Landscape, preserves the apartment’s historic charm while giving it a minimalist, airy atmosphere.
Golden Staircase: The Heart of the Design
The star of the renovation is the golden staircase, described as the “protagonist” of the design. Positioned centrally within the main living area, it introduces a unique visual element that contrasts the apartment’s predominantly white surfaces. The reflective amber glow from the golden hue of the staircase brightens the room, while the large colored mirror railings add a sculptural, artistic dimension without detracting from the historical value of the apartment.
Contrast Between Natural and Modern Materials
Above the staircase, the diagonal ceiling, clad in weathered wooden slats, creates a stark yet harmonious contrast with the modern elements in the space, such as the spotless titanium white walls and mirrored surfaces. The white-painted beams, displaying natural cracks and irregularities, highlight the lived-in character of the apartment, blending heritage with innovation.
In the kitchen, brushed chrome surfaces create a seamless waterfall effect, with the countertops, cabinets, and adjacent wall creating a smooth transition of reflective surfaces. This juxtaposes the clear golden tones of the staircase, offering an aesthetic balance between modernity and classic design.
Soft Curves in the Bathroom
The bathroom design offers a unique break from the angular lines seen throughout the apartment. A circular mirror and curved sink counter introduce an organic element, complementing the natural light that floods the space. A skylight fills the shower area with sunlight, while glass walls cleverly distribute the light throughout the room. This design, paired with another skylight in the bedroom, allows for a beautiful flow of natural light. The full wall of mirrors further enhances this by dispersing the sunlight across the room.
A Masterful Renovation
This carefully executed renovation of a historic Forlì penthouse beautifully merges historical architecture with modern aesthetics. By embracing the space’s legacy while adding innovative design elements, tissellistudioarchitetti has successfully reinterpreted the past, ensuring a timeless balance between old and new.
See more of this stunning renovation in the gallery above, and follow tissellistudioarchitetti on Instagram for their latest design updates.