We’ve never been fans of super minimalist spaces, but Milanese architect and sculptor, Vincenzo de Cotii, has skilfully stripped back his 18th century palazzo apartment to expose the beautiful high vaulted ceilings, original paintwork and parquet flooring with a warm and welcoming feel.
The apartment is situated in Magenta, one of the oldest areas of Milan (the colour magenta is named after the uniforms worn in the Battle of Magenta that took place here in 1859), so it’s only natural that the interior reflects the historical nature of the building.
He explains how he and wife Claudia found the apartment with a stroke of luck, “I’d always hoped to live in this area, but the right spaces are very hard to find. I wanted somewhere that retained original features, but still needed a lot of work. We were lucky. It was love at first sight when we viewed this place.”
“Mostly I wanted to preserve the history and positive atmosphere that already existed here. The idea was to maintain its character, but uncover the original paint colours, the ceiling and especially the light. I then worked out what needed my intervention in a contemporary way.”
Vincenzo is a favourite with the likes of Aesop and Alberta Ferretti in creating their sleek and luxurious retail spaces in keeping with the local architecture, as well as famous for his sculpting and, more recently, a limited-edition furniture collection. After seeing his clients’ projects, it’s only natural that his own apartment should echo certain trademarks, however, it’s also clear to see more depth and personal interest within the apartment. Like other projects, his famed style of a lived-in yet luxurious feel is evident, but the addition of his own sculptures, art and mix of vintage and modern furniture is unique to the place he calls home.
Photography by Kasia Gatkowska.
