Milan‘s case di ringhiera, with their characteristic balconies and shared courtyards, whisper stories of a vibrant, communal past. AtelierZero‘s renovation of the CDS Apartment within one of these iconic buildings offers a compelling example of how these spaces can be reimagined for modern living, while still honoring their inherent charm. The project is more than just a renovation; it’s a thoughtful dialogue between past and present, a process of rediscovering and redefining what home truly means.
AtelierZero has brilliantly reimagined the apartment’s layout, departing from conventional designs. The lower floor now features a subtle service area that includes a bathroom, laundry facilities, and a guest room, all tucked away to maintain a sense of privacy and functionality.
As you ascend to the attic level, you discover the vibrant heart of the home, where the main living areas come to life. A standout feature of this transformation is the addition of a small terrace that overlooks the verdant internal courtyard. This outdoor oasis, a rare gem in the urban landscape, not only bathes the newly designed kitchen in natural light but also provides a serene escape, seamlessly connecting the interior with the beauty of the outside world.
The design process extended beyond the physical realm, becoming an exercise in decluttering and curating. The client’s extensive collection of objects, furnishings, paintings, and lamps, accumulated over time, was carefully considered. This process of selection and refinement allowed the client to reconnect with their belongings, identifying what truly held meaning and what was simply habit. As AtelierZero eloquently states, a home reflects the most intimate aspects of its inhabitants, and a renovation offers a unique opportunity to understand what we wish to carry with us into a new chapter.
The goal was to create a more ordered and rational space, providing a contemporary framework for the client’s cherished possessions. Classic materials, imbued with a sense of warmth and familiarity, form the foundation of this design narrative. Vienna straw, terrazzo, marble, and parquet are not merely used; they are reinterpreted. The bathroom floor, for instance, features a geometric take on traditional Milanese terrazzo tiles.
Custom-made sliding doors, crafted with Vienna straw, echo the client’s collection of Thonet chairs, subtly weaving personal history into the architecture. The marble of the bespoke kitchen island complements the existing worktop, creating a sense of continuity. A rich, dark parquet graces the floors, while vintage wooden furniture pieces are given a fresh lease of life with monochromatic paint finishes. New, minimalist lamps find harmony alongside treasured 70s and 80s pieces.
This thoughtful juxtaposition of classic and contemporary elements is the hallmark of AtelierZero’s approach. The CDS Apartment isn’t just a renovated space; it’s a carefully curated home, a reflection of the client’s personality and a testament to the enduring beauty of Milanese architecture. It’s a place where memories are honored, and a new chapter begins.