Italy is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, and this is reflected in its diverse and captivating interior design styles. From the sleek and modern apartments of Milan to the rustic charm of Tuscan villas, Italian design encompasses a range of influences and aesthetics. Join us on a journey through Italy's most beautiful homes as we explore the regional variations and artistic experimentation that make Italian interior design truly unique.
The Art of Eclecticism: Embracing Contrasts
Italian interior design is a testament to the country's history of regionalism and artistic expression. It embraces eclecticism and celebrates the juxtaposition of different styles and eras. Take, for example, the living room of renowned furniture designer Carlo Mollino's home in Turin. Here, opulent finishes contrast with distressed objets and upholstery, creating a casual yet sophisticated atmosphere.
Opulent finishings in the living room of Carlo Mollino's Turin House. Photo by Bart Kiggen.
A Blend of Modern and Rustic: Tuscan Villas Revisited
In Tuscany, interior designer Paola Navone demonstrates her mastery of blending modern and rustic elements in the restoration of a centuries-old villa owned by a former Armani executive. The result is a captivating fusion of tradition and innovation that breathes new life into the space.
Paola Navone's restoration of a Tuscan villa. Photo by Jean-Pierre Gabriel.
Unveiling Elegance: Florence's Architectural Gems
Florence, a city steeped in history and art, is home to some of Italy's most elegant interiors. Designer Michele Bönan has left his mark on the Ferragamo family's hotel properties, including the exquisite penthouse of the Portrait Firenze. The attention to detail and timeless beauty of these spaces is a testament to the city's rich artistic heritage.
Michele Bönan's penthouse at the Portrait Firenze in Florence. Photo by Massimo Listri via Condé Nast Traveler.
Preserving History: The Charms of Granaiolo
The Pucci family's country estate, Granaiolo, in Castelfiorentino is a true testament to the enduring charm of Italian design. The grand entry hall welcomes guests with its Renaissance-era splendor and serves as a reminder of the family's long-standing history in the region.
The grand entry hall of Granaiolo estate. Photo by Stewart Shining via W.
Embracing Artistic Heritage: Cy Twombly's Gaeta Villa
Located in Gaeta, Southern Italy, the villa of painter Cy Twombly reflects his artistic vision and love for history. Twombly completed much of his later work within the frescoed walls of his companion Nicola Del Roscio's villa, which dates back to 1000 A.D. The combination of ancient architecture and contemporary art creates a truly unique and inspiring space.
Painter Cy Twombly's Gaeta villa. Photo by Simon Watts for T Magazine.
A Burst of Color: Ettore Sottsass' Milan Apartment
Ettore Sottsass, an influential designer known for his Memphis Design aesthetic, showcases his vibrant and geometric style in his 1959 Milan apartment. The bold colors and emphasis on geometry create a lively and dynamic atmosphere that became an iconic representation of Sottsass' design philosophy.
Ettore Sottsass' Milan apartment, showcasing his iconic style. Photo by 1stdibs.
Timeless Beauty: Filippo Carandini's Florentine Apartment
Italian interior designer Filippo Carandini brings a sense of understated elegance to this Florentine apartment. The neutral color palette and clean lines create a serene and inviting space, allowing the beauty of the architecture and design to shine through.
Filippo Carandini's understated Florentine apartment. Photo by 1stdibs.
Celebrating Modernity: William Sawaya's Milan Residence
In a 1920s Milan apartment, contemporary designer William Sawaya's saffron-hued chair steals the spotlight. The vibrant color stands out against the backdrop of the historic space, creating a captivating visual contrast that showcases the importance of modern design in Italian interiors.
A saffron-hued chair by William Sawaya adds a touch of modernity to a Milan apartment. Image by Armando Bertacchi.
A Symphony of Styles: Studio Peregalli's Brescia Palazzo
Studio Peregalli, an acclaimed design firm, brings together a diverse array of styles and elements in this Brescia palazzo. From sable-color Chesterfield sofas to an antique Persian rug, the eclectic mix creates a sense of opulence and grandeur within the trompe l'oeil stucco walls.
A glimpse into Studio Peregalli's eclectic Brescia palazzo. Image by Vincent Leroux for AD France.
Unexpected Elegance: Dimore Studio's Milan Magic
Milan-based design duo Dimore Studio showcases their mastery of color and atmosphere in this captivating interior. By combining goldenrod and turquoise, they create a moody and sophisticated aesthetic that pushes the boundaries of traditional design.
Dimore Studio's unexpected and enchanting Milan interior. Image by 1stdibs.
An Iconic Legacy: Fornasetti's Milan Villa
Barnaba Fornasetti, son of legendary designer Piero Fornasetti, has transformed his 19th-century Milan villa into a living tribute to his father's iconic works. The villa is filled with timeless pieces from the Fornasetti archives, showcasing the enduring appeal of their whimsical and surreal design.
Barnaba Fornasetti's Milan villa filled with iconic Fornasetti pieces. Photo by Geraldine James via The Times Magazine.
A Neoclassical Haven: Achille Salvagni's Rome Residence
Architect and designer Achille Salvagni's residence in Rome is a testament to his impeccable taste and attention to detail. The neoclassical building, designed by the 19th-century architect Gino Coppedè, serves as the perfect backdrop for Salvagni's bespoke furniture pieces and his belief that beauty lies in the harmony of proportions.
Achille Salvagni's neoclassical Rome residence. Photo by Eric Laignel via Interior Design.
Timeless Elegance: Gabrielle Crespi's Milan Living Room
Designer Gabrielle Crespi's Milan living room is a reflection of her distinctive style, which seamlessly blends humble and precious materials. The centerpiece, her 1976 bronze Elisse table, embodies the dualism that characterizes her work and showcases her ability to create harmonious compositions.
Gabrielle Crespi's Milan living room with her iconic Elisse table. Photo by James Mollison via WSJ.
Baroque Splendor: Palazzo Valguarnera-Gangi in Sicily
The ballroom of Palazzo Valguarnera-Gangi in Palermo is a baroque masterpiece that has captured the imagination of art lovers for centuries. Made famous by the iconic film "Il Gattopardo" by Luchino Visconti, this opulent space showcases the grandeur and sophistication that defines Sicilian interior design.
The baroque ballroom of Palazzo Valguarnera-Gangi in Palermo. Photo by Fabrizio Cicconi via Elle Decor.
Embracing Evolution: Villa Lena's Artistic Retreat
Villa Lena, nestled in the Tuscan countryside, serves as an artist's retreat where creativity flourishes. Designer Ettore Sottsass' Tahiti lamp stands as a symbol of artistic and cultural evolution, playfully contrasting with the property's 18th-century buildings. It represents the ever-changing nature of art and design, constantly pushing boundaries and inspiring new ideas.
Villa Lena's artistic retreat, where history meets contemporary design. Image by Coke Bartrina via Lonny.
Refined Simplicity: Vincenzo De Cotiis' Milanese Residence
Designer Vincenzo De Cotiis brings a sense of refined simplicity to this Milanese residence. A pair of claret-colored Marco Zanuso Senior armchairs takes center stage, adding a touch of elegance to the space. The clean lines and understated palette create a harmonious and inviting atmosphere.
Vincenzo De Cotiis' Milanese residence exudes refined simplicity. Photo by 1stdibs.
Timeless Beauty: Alessandro Dell'Acqua's Milan Home
Fashion designer Alessandro Dell'Acqua's home in Milan is an elegant and vibrant space. A Saarinen dining table and a 1940s Murano glass chandelier add a touch of sophistication to the lively atmosphere. Dell'Acqua's home is a reflection of his artistic sensibilities and passion for timeless beauty.
Alessandro Dell'Acqua's elegant and lively Milan home. Image by Fabrizio Cicconi via Elle Decor.
The Charms of History: Alfred von Escher's Sicilian Home
In his 16th-century Sicilian home, designer Alfred von Escher celebrates the beauty of vintage furniture. Roland Rainer chairs, with their timeless design, line the dining table, creating an inviting and welcoming ambiance. This blend of history and contemporary design highlights the enduring appeal of Italian interiors.
Vintage Roland Rainer chairs add a touch of history to Alfred von Escher's Sicilian home. Photo by Alessandra Ianniello via Homelife.
Italian Interior Design Collection: A Celebration of Beauty
Italy's interior design collection is a testament to the country's rich heritage and artistic expression. From the sleek lines of Milan to the rustic charm of Tuscan villas, each region offers a unique perspective on Italian design. Celebrate the beauty and diversity of Italian homes as you explore the timeless elegance and captivating aesthetics that continue to inspire designers around the world.
(Article reviewed on the 5th of October, 2020)
