HOME ITALIA | 01-2019

MINIMAL SPACES, FREE SPACES! | Studio Pierattelli Architetture has designed a 50-square-metre flat in the heart of Florence: a private residence where the absence of spaces is not a limitation but an opportunity to interpret the theme of contemporary living by combining absence and presence, function and form, comfort and perspective. A restrained entrance opens onto a surprisingly large, double-height room used as a living area. A round arch characterizes the spaces, giving depth and proportion to the area: it becomes a scenic backdrop framing both kitchen and living room. In the centre, the Arclinea kitchen watches over the living area. “We thought the apartment would have more breathing space without furniture scattered all over the place, which would have restricted freedom of movement and contributed to reducing the perception of space” say architects Andrea and Claudio Pierattelli. A lacquered wooden bench forms the base of the large made-to-measure sofa with its denim cushions; at the end of the structure a flower box gives life to a surprise green corner. A wall-mounted bookcase, also in lacquered wood, seamlessly connects the lower and upper rooms, giving character and function to the flat. A glass balustrade provides protection for the upper level, delimiting the spaces lightly and with discretion. Its transparency and light permeability also contribute to create a uniquely harmonious room. The apartment jewel is the tiny window through which you can admire the dome of the Renaissance church of Santo Spirito. The choice of materials, colours and finishes is dictated by the need to maximise the permanence of light and desaturate the space by amplifying the perception of room depth.