Nestled within a rapidly evolving urban landscape of Milan, Atelierzero has breathed new life into a former industrial warehouse, transforming it into the captivating LOFT DE. This project is a masterclass in balancing the raw, industrial soul of a space with the refined comforts of contemporary living.
The warehouse’s inherent characteristics – its elongated layout and abundant zenithal light pouring in through skylights – became the guiding principles for Atelierzero’s design. The architects ingeniously crafted an “enfilade,” a series of rooms that flow seamlessly into one another, creating a sense of continuous, expansive space.
The journey begins at the street entrance, leading first to a versatile guest room/studio, followed by a hallway housing the main internal access, laundry, and a shared bathroom. This progression culminates in the heart of the home: a spacious open area encompassing a kitchen with a central island and a dining zone. Floor-to-ceiling ribbon windows frame a private courtyard, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living.
Preserved corten steel sliding doors act as a dynamic partition between the dining and relaxation areas. Bathed in natural light from above, the relaxation zone is defined by a striking mezzanine level, a distinct volume that acts as both a spatial divider and a filter between communal and private spaces.
Beneath the mezzanine, a custom-designed walk-in closet serves as a transitional space, leading to both the bedroom and en-suite bathroom.
Atelierzero’s design philosophy for LOFT DE is a departure from the minimalist loft aesthetic that has dominated recent years. Instead, they embraced a “maximalist” approach, focusing on creating unique spaces through a rich interplay of materials, colors, and finishes.
The flooring serves as a prime example of this philosophy. The original concrete was retained to honor the building’s history, while terrazzo tiles define the kitchen and its island, linoleum adds warmth to the relaxation area, colored resin (matching the mezzanine) enlivens the walk-in closet, and a neutral resin creates a serene ambiance in the bedroom and bathroom.
The project exudes a playful sense of irony, evident in details like the ladder leading to the mezzanine and the theatrical curtain that conceals it, or the bold chandelier illuminating the dining table. This eclectic mix of styles, historical periods, and contemporary and vintage pieces contributes to a vibrant and dynamic environment.
LOFT DE is a demonstration to the transformative power of thoughtful design. Atelierzero has masterfully crafted a highly personalized home that honors the building’s industrial heritage while catering to the modern lifestyle of its inhabitants. It’s a space that celebrates the infinite possibilities of design and interior architecture.