House on Track: A Harmonious Fusion of Design and Functionality in Rome's Heart

In the bustling heart of Rome, near Piazza Vittorio, the "House on Track" project by STUDIOTAMAT stands as a testament to innovative design and meticulous planning. This apartment, spanning 95 m², was reimagined by architects Tommaso Amato, Matteo Soddu, and Valentina Paiola. The project, completed in 2023, blends domestic comfort with architectural prowess, resulting in a space that is as functional as it is aesthetically pleasing.

Design Philosophy and Concept

The House on Track project uniquely positions its designers as both creators and clients, allowing for a 360° design perspective. This duality enabled a perfect fusion of practical living spaces and artistic elements, creating a home that reflects both the personalities and professional acumen of the architects involved. The design journey began with a crucial need: transforming a dark, cramped apartment with narrow corridors and low ceilings into an expansive, open living space.

Spatial Transformation

One of the primary goals was to expand the living areas, creating a central open space that serves as the apartment's beating heart. The architects removed the original false ceilings to reveal beautiful brick vaults, restoring a historical element that adds both character and depth to the space. The once narrow and dark corridors have been replaced with a floor plan that emphasizes openness and connectivity.

Material and Color Palette

The use of color and materials plays a significant role in defining the different areas within the apartment. The kitchen, designed specifically for this project, features a striking contrast between the industrial steel of the drawers and countertops and the warm birch wood of the cabinets and pantry. This combination creates a visually appealing and functional space ideal for both cooking and social gatherings.

The living area showcases a blend of modern and vintage elements, including a black leather sofa, a coffee table, and vintage office armchairs sourced from a Berlin flea market. An open metal shelving unit, framed by walnut-covered audio speakers, houses a large vinyl collection, highlighting the owners' backgrounds as DJs and event organizers. This area also features a custom-made console for DJ equipment, painted in a vibrant cherry-colored powder, further emphasizing the apartment’s connection to music.

Integration of Natural Light and Air Flow

The design cleverly utilizes natural light and air flow to enhance the living experience. The three French windows in the living room and studio provide ample natural light and offer views of the nearby Termini station's travertine wall and control tower, a historical structure designed by Angiolo Mazzoni in the early 1900s. The neutral wall colors reflect the sunlight, enhancing the brightness of the space and highlighting the architectural details of the vaulted ceilings.

The Central Nucleus and Open Space

The heart of the apartment, previously occupied by bedrooms, has been transformed into a central open space. This area now serves multiple functions, including a spacious living room and a versatile kitchen and dining area. The design minimizes the use of doors, contributing to a sense of continuity and openness throughout the apartment.

The Kitchen: A Blend of Functionality and Style

At one end of the open space is the kitchen, a masterpiece of custom design. The steel and birch materials create a modern yet warm ambiance, while a large vintage table with a checkered top becomes the focal point for social gatherings. This kitchen is not only a place for cooking but also a central hub for entertainment and interaction.

Living Room and Personal Touches

The living room, adorned with carefully selected furniture and decor, reflects the eclectic and lively personalities of the owners. The black leather sofa, coffee table, and vintage office armchairs create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The open metal shelving unit, housing the vinyl collection, serves as both a functional storage solution and a decorative element. The custom-made DJ console and the baroque-style Chalk applique by Servomuto add unique and personal touches to the space.

Study and Bedroom: Personalized Retreats

The study, painted in a shade of blue reminiscent of the Sardinian sea, provides a tranquil workspace that can be transformed into a guest room when needed. This area features a desk, a Wassily armchair by Knoll, and an equipped wall with a sofa bed. The master bedroom, separated from the living area, offers a private retreat overlooking an internal courtyard. The bedroom’s design follows the logic of the study, with a mustard-colored volume encouraging rest and relaxation.

Bathrooms: Functional and Aesthetic Excellence

The bathrooms in the House on Track are designed with both functionality and aesthetics in mind. The master bathroom, characterized by a large arch housing the sink, features a playful combination of yellow, pink, and amaranth tiles. These colors differentiate the various functional areas within the bathroom, creating a vibrant yet cohesive look. The two portholes on the wall allow natural light to filter into the space, enhancing its brightness and openness.

The House on Track project by STUDIOTAMAT is a brilliant example of how thoughtful design and attention to detail can transform a cramped, outdated apartment into a spacious, modern home. The seamless integration of historical elements, modern furnishings, and personal touches creates a unique and inviting living space that reflects the personalities and lifestyles of its owners. Through this project, STUDIOTAMAT has not only redefined the concept of urban living in Rome but also set a new standard for residential design.

All photographs are the work of Seven Zhang