House in Torino, Italy

The house in old town dates back to the 1850s. The first floor apartments, spacious and high-ceilinged, were traditionally considered privileged and prestigious. The new owners, a young family, wanted to turn it into a stylish, comfortable space and furnish it with antique units. The inspiration was found in the eclectic Art-Deco atmosphere of Shanghai of the 20-s and 30-s. Old window frames, doors and parquet were renovated. Marble crumb was used for the flooring in the hall and in the corridor. Paper wall-lamps and bright curtains break the monotony of walls and ceilings. In the sitting room, two big cupboards accentuate the height and size of the room. Victorian armchairs with rich silk and linen upholstery, a bright-blue couch, drafted by the architect, and quaint coffee-tables, brighten up the space. Various original Chinese articles of the 30-s complete the picture. Deliberately decorated and done with an eye to the past, the apartment is, nevertheless, comfortable and modern.