• Pierattelli Architetture

    Pierattelli Architetture

  • Pierattelli Architetture

    Pierattelli Architetture

  • Pierattelli Architetture

    Pierattelli Architetture

  • Pierattelli Architetture

    Pierattelli Architetture

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Residential Developments (Apartments)

Pierattelli Architetture sustainably renovate Florentine Palazzo Stefanelli

The 12 apartments in Borgo Pinti blend Renaissance with expert use of colour and material to preserve the 19th century building’s original historic character, elevate architectural and decorative details, while combining with contemporary living solutions

by Georgina Johnston 07 April 2021

With a range of apartments, including two-bedroom properties and a penthouse suite, Palazzo Stefanelli is a building consisting of four storeys, one of which is an underground basement. Pierattelli Architetture has developed a renovation project that aims to create 12 apartments all set around a delightful internal green courtyard. In the architectural world, working on a pre-built structure involves a delicate equation of addition and subtraction. It means finding the right balance between historical recollection and the spirit of the time, between what is linguistically new and what came before.

Respecting the building’s pre-existing features, the renovation preserves a number of original architectural elements and combines these with elegant, contemporary design. Pierattelli Architetture has also paid special attention to the topic of environmental sustainability and all apartments have a heat pump to cut energy consumption, a BTicino Living Now home automation system and energy-efficient thermal, acoustic doors and windows.

Making the very most of the 19th century space, the 12 apartments are either on one level or are on split levels with a mezzanine floor. Some apartments have their own terrace or garden and each has a private cellar. Showers in the main bathrooms have been designed so that a Turkish bath can be installed.

The interiors feature a blend of Renaissance elements and modern architecture. Pierattelli Architetture has chosen to really showcase the frescoed ceilings, the large period spaces, and the architectural elements such as beams and trusses. Decorative Renaissance details have also been preserved as part of the renovation, such as the original entrance bell and frescoes in the rooms and entrance hall on the ground floor, an area that originally served as the coach house.

A range of materials help enhance the natural elegance of each space. Wood and travertine marble play a key role and have been used for finishes and surfaces in the living room, bathroom and bedrooms. Tuscan oak herringbone parquet was chosen for the flooring and this adds a feeling of warmth to the rooms. In the bathroom it combines beautifully with elegant marble surfaces characterised by unique nuances and blue ripples that create a sophisticated feel.

The penthouse is on the third floor of the building and is the real design piece de resistance. It is on two levels and has a spiral staircase and a loggia terrace that provides stunning views over Florence. 

In addition to the ongoing structural work, Pierattelli Architetture has also designed a number of interior solutions and settings. In the bedroom, for example, one side of a slatted Canaletto Walnut wood partition provides the frame for a bespoke design Pierattelli Architetture bed with a large, soft headboard; the reverse side transforms into a spacious walk-in wardrobe. The other rooms showcase an elegant harmony between Renaissance and contemporary elements. 


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