A villa surrounded by a private garden whose sweeping windows open onto centuries-old treetops sits shrouded in the history of an archeological area that doubles as the largest urban park in Europe. We're in the heart of historic Rome, on the Appian Way, in a neighborhood that ties its identity to one the most important roads of ancient Rome, much like it did 2,000 years ago. Here, an apartment has been the subject of a complete renovation to let light into all the atmospheres, highlighting the owner’s extensive design furniture collection.
The first goal for architects was to allow as much light into the property as possible, while a tree-lined garden surrounds the villa as a natural filter for the sun’s rays. Before MGK stepped in, the original apartment paid the price for these scarcely illuminated environments, especially the internal rooms.
The original layout was completely revisited and long separated areas were united or connected, thanks to the realization of large openings with window fixtures, sometimes transparent and sometimes opaque. These modifications allowed the light to penetrate widely through all the spaces, even in those far from the windows, like the corridor, which is illuminated from the bedroom.
Tailor-made furnishings with a discreet presence and attention to details craft refined atmospheres with a relaxed mood, conforming to the homeowners’ needs without sacrificing style. It’s with this that the single material kitchen disappears into its white surfaces, giving life to a pure and peaceful space for gatherings. Elsewhere, the bedroom is a refuge with essential lines perfect for a bit of rest and relaxation.
The large common area spans from the entrance to the living room, stopping just before a glass wall in the kitchen, which remains visually connected. The most spacious environment in the residence is that of the living area, passing the mic to the maestros of design: Barcelona stools in white leather by Ludwig Mies Van der Rohe for Knoll, LC2 sofa and chairs along with the LC4 chaise longue by Le Corbusier for Cassina, and the lounge chair by Charles and Ray Eames for Vitra paired with a custom-made bookshelf in the reading area.
In the kitchen, a dialogue between minimalism and iconic design continues, where RAR chairs by Charles and Ray Eames for Vitra surround an intimate space around the table.
The choice of materials reflects the taste of designers in both its pure lines and intention to give character to the living space: a fireplace in important dimensions is further underlined by the cladding in red Levanto marble, while a dining table realized especially for the home presents an original terrazzo effect in Carrara marble and resin with contrasting colors.
The minimal look of the apartment marries well with the desire to renounce decor. 19th-century portraits acquired at auction by the architects add an intentional playfulness, which, together with the fishbone oak parquet and prized marbles of the fireplace and bathroom, lend an aged appearance, fusing classic taste with a contemporary language.
