(PARENTESI.STUDIO) Harnesses the Power of Innovation to Create a NEPERO Revolution

Housing Transformation: Preserving the Spirit of Inacasa Harar-Dessie District Residence with Ingenious Design"

Nestled within the historic Inacasa Harar-Dessie district, an architectural gem conceived by Luigi Figini, Gino Pollini, and Gio Ponti in the 1950s, an exceptional housing intervention has taken place. This remarkable residence, located in one of the insulae that harmonize with the neighbourhood's iconic "horizontal skyscrapers," has undergone a thoughtful renovation to honour its original design and essence.

Spanning two above-ground floors and a basement, the revitalization project aimed to maintain the house's true character by eliminating accumulated additions throughout the years, and meticulously preserving the original layout and proportions. A pivotal aspect of the transformation involved the rotation of the staircase's final section and the creation of a new spatial system using a striking metal structure, seamlessly connecting the ground floor and the first floor. Within this innovative framework, meticulously integrated dividing elements, a carefully crafted lighting system, and a bespoke staircase found their place.

Reflecting a commitment to natural materials, the flooring elegantly transitions between breccia stone on the ground floor, wood on the staircase, and grit on the first floor. The living room features a captivating interplay of design elements, with a ribbed white volume providing support for a Canaletto walnut volume and a sleek metal bookcase. This visually engaging arrangement draws the eye from the entrance towards a window framing a picturesque view of the rear garden, beneath which a custom sofa adds its charm.

The sleeping area showcases custom-designed doors adorned with fanlights, ensuring a generous infusion of natural light into the small hallway. Meticulously crafted furnishings and thoughtfully chosen new materials establish a harmonious dialogue with the house's original spirit, culminating in a spatial harmony that rekindles a profound sense of domesticity throughout the rooms.

This awe-inspiring housing transformation exemplifies a meticulous approach to preservation, blending seamlessly with contemporary design elements to create a truly captivating living space. The successful marriage of innovation and reverence for architectural heritage breathes new life into this cherished residence, setting a remarkable precedent for the preservation and revitalization of historic housing.