House Tour: A graphic design & gallery owner couple's 2-storey house in Genoa, Italy
This gorgeous apartment in Italy, home to a creative couple, features an unusual spatial layout and a light, cheerful palette -- not to mention stunning views of the sea port next to it.
By Melody Bay -
Created for a gallery owner and graphic designer couple, this home is everything one needs to build a young family, even if it is a bit unconventional.
The 2-storey home is situated on the highest hill in the city of Genoa, the capital of the Italian region of Liguria, and boasts amazing views. On one side is the hill of Castello; the other overlooks the busy sea port.
Designed by Luca Scardulla and Federico Robbiano of interior design firm llabb, the home's unusual layout was initially a challenge, but they overcame it with the creative use of space and a light, playful colour palette.
The result is a beautiful, light-filled home that lifts the spirits.
Genoese terrazzo floor tiles
While most homes have their communal spaces on the first level and the bedrooms on the second, this home does it the other way round, with the sleeping quarters on the first floor.
Here, the original Genoese terrazzo floor tiles were preserved, lending visual interest to the clean minimalist bedroom.
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Raw industrial interior design
The wallpaper was removed and the plaster restored.
Restored plaster tends to be more durable and long-lasting than damaged or deteriorating plaster or wallpaper. It ensures that the walls are in better condition and less likely to require frequent repairs.
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4.2 Metre high ceiling
The staircase connecting the two levels was one of the designers' triumphs.
Initially, the sheer height of the level difference - 4.2 metres - proved to be a challenge, but the designers overcame it by means of a concrete platform on the first floor.
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2 Staircases
From the concrete platform, a light metal structure winds its way up.
The overall look is technically that of two staircases merged into one, but it's unified with the use of oak treads and the interesting use of blue nautical ropes as the bannisters, which lend an almost-sculptural quality without adding visual weight.
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Long home layout
The stairs lead to the second floor, which was originally an attic set back from the edge of the building.
This is where the living area, dining area, reading room, and small studiolo are all situated in one long layout.
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Bright interior design
Bright pops of colour lend cheer to the house. They encourage a more relaxed and carefree atmosphere, making the home a place where you can have fun and be yourself.
Warm and bright colors, such as reds, oranges, and yellows, can make a space feel warm and inviting. They evoke a sense of coziness and comfort, making you feel more at home and content.
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Plant and artwork collection
The home is filled with plants and artwork from the couple's private collection.
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Picturesque view of sea
The studiolo, where the homeowners can work, is actually out on the terrace itself, complete with breathtaking views of the sea port.
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This article was first published on Home and Decor in February 2021.