Nestled in the vibrant Milan‘s NoLo district, CASA GB, designed by KICK.OFFICE, isn’t just an apartment; it’s a carefully orchestrated spatial experience. Faced with the immovable challenge of a load-bearing wall slicing through the heart of the space, the architects didn’t see an obstacle, but an opportunity. They transformed this constraint into the very soul of the home, crafting a fluid, circular pathway that effortlessly connects every room.
Imagine stepping into a space where the boundaries blur. The once-imposing wall is now a phantom, its presence cleverly disguised by a full-length mirrored surface. This illusion of endlessness, a visual sleight of hand, opens the living area, kitchen, and dining space into a seamless, interconnected whole. It’s a testament to the studio’s ability to turn a structural necessity into a striking design feature.
The journey continues as you move from the living room into a versatile space, a chameleon room that adapts to the homeowner’s needs. It can be a quiet study, a welcoming guest room, or simply an extension of the living area, all thanks to sliding polycarbonate doors. These doors, with their industrial edge, strike a balance between privacy and openness, allowing natural light to permeate while maintaining a sense of connection. They interact beautifully with the exposed concrete pillar and the sleek, black-painted iron bookshelves, creating a dialogue between raw and refined.
A hallway, painted a bold burgundy, leads to the master bedroom, a private sanctuary. The en-suite bathroom, though compact, is a masterclass in thoughtful design. Plywood panelling, wrapping the perimeter, integrates the washbasin cabinet, adding a touch of warmth and texture.
The heart of the circular path, the element that ties everything together, is the central shower. Clad in charcoal tiles, it serves both bathrooms, acting as a shared, intimate space. This clever solution maximizes space without sacrificing comfort, creating an almost sensual experience. It’s a moment of pampering, a quiet retreat within the dynamic flow of the apartment.
The sense of continuity is further enhanced by the consistent use of materials. Light grey walls provide a subtle backdrop to the rich, walnut-colored parquet flooring, creating a harmonious palette. The apartment, perched on the top floor, benefits from abundant natural light streaming through large south-west facing windows, offering breathtaking sunset views over Milan.
As the sun dips below the horizon, the warm light is amplified by the sloping ceiling, painted in a vibrant mustard hue, a nod to Le Corbusier’s masterful use of color. This final touch adds a layer of depth and warmth, completing the immersive experience of CASA GB.
CASA GB is more than just a home; it’s a testament to the power of thoughtful design. KICK.OFFICE has transformed a challenging space into a fluid, versatile, and visually captivating environment, where every element works in harmony to create a truly unique living experience. It’s a space where flow meets reflection, and where the limitations of architecture are transformed into its most compelling features.