Nestled within a 1960s building, a stone’s throw from Rome‘s vibrant San Giovanni and Pigneto districts, 02A Studio has unveiled Casa Polly, a residence that defies easy categorization. Once the canvas of designer Valerio Ciampicacigli, the apartment is a bold experiment in juxtaposing architectural styles, where the raw, unyielding language of brutalism dances with the playful exuberance of pop art.
“This project embodies a perfect fusion of two worlds,” explains Marco Rulli, co-founder of 02A Studio, alongside Thomas Grossi. “I love homes with a story to tell, and this one—with its layered patterns and eccentric furnishings—brings together different identities in a way that feels both unexpected and harmonious.”
Transforming the 120-square-meter apartment required a sensitive touch, balancing respect for the original design with the need to reflect the new family’s identity. 02A Studio navigated this by preserving the open living area and thoughtfully reconfiguring the bedrooms, adding a master suite with ensuite and walk-in closet, a playful space for Polly, and a dedicated laundry area.
The studio’s design philosophy centered on creating a dialogue between Ciampicacigli’s raw, minimalist aesthetic and the clients’ penchant for geometric patterns, pastel tones, and a gentle, inviting atmosphere. The result is a captivating interplay of textures and materials, where rugged, exposed surfaces meet softer, glossier finishes.
The built-in kitchen, clad in milky D-tiles, stretches towards the expansive windows, while a commanding raw concrete pillar anchors the living space. This central area is cleverly divided into a raised dining platform, crafted from warm wood, and a relaxed lounge. Here, the original 1960s terrazzo flooring, a nod to the building’s history, peeks through the contemporary “cemento di Luna” resin coating, creating a fascinating textural contrast.
The juxtaposition of diverse materials and textures is a defining characteristic of Casa Polly, adding depth and character to every corner. Wall decor, such as the lilac horizontal stripes in the hallway, which cleverly conceal a laundry closet, further enhance the spatial narrative.
While the living area embraces a brutalist sensibility, the master bedroom offers a sanctuary of soft, enveloping atmospheres. Light blue carpeting and whimsical Murals wallpaper create a cartoon-like aesthetic, where sharp edges are banished, and sinuous lines and generous padding reign supreme. Carefully selected furnishings and curtains add layers of warmth and comfort.
The ensuite bathroom exemplifies how contrasts can create harmony. A pastel green wavy portal frames the entrance, leading to a sink area featuring a pink fluted wood vanity. A sleek iron and glass partition provides privacy without compromising the room’s visual appeal.
“Bringing together brutalist elements with the chubby pop sensibilities of the clients was the biggest challenge to us,” Rulli reflects. “Striking the right balance between the rugged character of the existing interior and the new decorative elements was key. The result is a unique apartment that not only reflects the personalities of its owners but also remains fully functional for family life.”
Casa Polly is a powerful example of 02A Studio’s ability to navigate the complexities of architectural dialogue, creating a home that is both a reflection of its history and a vibrant expression of its present. It’s a Roman rhapsody, where brutalism and pop art harmonize, creating a symphony of style that is as unexpected as it is captivating.