Casa Calipso by Degli Esposti Architetti – A Contemporary Interpretation of Milanese Modernism

Located in the heart of Milan, Italy, Casa Calipso by Degli Esposti Architetti redefines contemporary residential living while paying homage to the city’s rich architectural heritage. Completed in 2022, this 2,500 ft² project replaces a former commercial building on Via Leone Tolstoi 87 with a striking new residential landmark.

The development comprises six above-ground floors, each offering 2–5 apartments, crowned with a penthouse and duplex upper penthouse featuring expansive terraces. Below, a dedicated basement garage provides essential functionality for urban living in one of Milan’s most dynamic neighborhoods.

Architectural Concept & Inspiration

Casa Calipso is conceived as a modern reinterpretation of Milanese architectural syntax, referencing the city’s 20th-century Rationalist architecture and the post-war Reconstruction period. The design explores the interplay of pure geometric volumes and framing devices, creating a dialogue between tradition and contemporary innovation.

The building is composed of three distinct bodies:

• A larger volume at the street intersection, characterized by a bold white double-row frame that integrates loggias and outdoor dining spaces.
• Two smaller adjoining volumes, harmonizing with neighboring buildings, each capped with white frames that echo the architectural rhythm of the main structure.

The setback penthouse and upper penthouse maximize natural light while opening onto generous terraces, blending indoor and outdoor living.

References to Milanese Modernism

The project continues Milan’s tradition of interplaying multiple architectural elements, seen in the works of Ignazio Gardella’s Casa Tognella, Asnago and Vender’s Condominio XXI Aprile, and the Latis condominium by Cupello. The recurring use of frames recalls iconic Milanese precedents, from Figini and Pollini’s Via Broletto residential building to the refined geometries of Giancarlo Malchiodi and Guglielmo Mozzoni.

By embedding these references, Casa Calipso stands as both a tribute to Rationalist heritage and a forward-looking residential model, ensuring architectural continuity while addressing the demands of contemporary urban life.

Materials & Details

The façade’s white structural frames contrast with syncopated partitions and minimalist detailing, reflecting the precision of Rationalist design while adapting it to modern construction techniques. Large windows enhance daylight penetration and create visual connections between interiors and the surrounding city.

A Landmark of Contemporary Living in Milan

Casa Calipso is more than a residential building—it is a statement of Milanese identity, balancing heritage, innovation, and liveability. Through its carefully articulated forms, terraces, and framed spaces, the project establishes a new dialogue with Milan’s architectural legacy while offering residents modern comfort and urban elegance.

All Photographs are works of Maurizio Montagna