Milan-based practice Studio Paradisiartificiali has recently transformed an apartment in Desio, Italy, into a dreamlike homage to the moon and the emotional connection between a mother and daughter. The project, titled “Ode to the Moon,” is more than just a renovation; it’s a story woven in space, light, and symbolism.
The project began with a unique request: a daughter seeking to create a haven for her mother, who lived far away. This heartfelt desire for connection resonated with the designers, who saw it as an opportunity to foster a space that nurtured not just physical comfort but also a deep emotional bond.
Eschewing traditional notions of an apartment, Studio Paradisiartificiali envisioned the space as a garden – a metaphor for a cultivated and personal interpretation of nature. Stepping into the apartment is akin to entering a sanctuary, a place where the clients could find solace and feel represented in this new chapter of their lives.
The apartment’s design draws inspiration from the ethereal realm of dreams. A geometric pergola stretches overhead, mimicking the branches of a tree, and draws nourishment from a central fountain. The floor resembles red earth, grounding the space. A closer look at the water’s surface reveals an astronomical map etched below, hinting at the celestial influences that guide the design.
Throughout the apartment, symbolic elements weave a narrative of openness and self-discovery. Topiary hedges line the perimeters of rooms, representing the contours of thoughts. Open birdcages symbolize the freedom of the mind, while keys hanging from branches serve as a reminder of the power of choice – to lock oneself in or embrace new possibilities.
Where vibrant greens and earthy tones recede, the calming white of clouds takes over, enveloping the space in tranquility. As you venture deeper, you reach the nymphaeum, a hidden sanctuary bathed in an ethereal glow. Here, amidst the water’s embrace, time seems to suspend, and a sense of renewal emerges.
The poem “Oh, Moon” serves as a powerful undercurrent throughout the design. It speaks of a yearning for connection, a search for guidance, and the elusiveness of the ideal. The moon, a celestial body that waxes and wanes, becomes a metaphor for the ever-changing nature of emotions and the cyclical journey of life.
Studio Paradisiartificiali’s “Ode to the Moon” transcends the realm of interior design. It’s a masterpiece of storytelling, a space crafted to evoke emotions, nurture connection, and celebrate the enduring bond between a mother and daughter.