NAP residence in Forli stages an intricate dance of minimalist forms in a historic shell

Established in 1998 by Italian architect Filippo Tisselli, interior design practice tissellistudioarchitetti has renovated a historic penthouse in Forli, Italy, injecting it with modern fervour. Located within the historic building of Palazzo Calboli dall'Aste, the NAP penthouse retains the authentic interiors of the residential architecture, with minimalist yet striking forms, furniture and finishes. The original residential design of the house featured white walls, grey floors, a black staircase and ceilings that contributed to a relatively darker interior, despite skylights in place to illuminate the interiors. Consequently, the architects decided to add modern interior and architectural elements to the space to craft a distinct identity by emphasising the timber ceilings, recessed windows and skylights, slightly modifying the forms and adding pops of colour through material finishes.

The 200 sq.m. apartment is equipped with common areas on the lower level and two bedrooms, two bathrooms and studio and closet spaces on the upper level, all connected by a refurbished staircase. A modest entrance foyer opens up to the warm and inviting double-storey living area, featuring recessed windows and minimal furniture design dotting the space. Highlighting the space's character and replacing the dated C-shaped staircase is an angular sculptural design, clad in coloured mirrors, adding a sense of drama and visual interest to an otherwise understated space. Additionally, a neutral colour palette proliferates the interior design as the wooden flooring and white paint replace the grey tiles and dark ceilings.

As one descends to the left of the entrance foyer, a serene, refined space unfolds, concealing all utilitarian elements and related clutter. By removing the full-height floor-to-ceiling walls, the Italian architects create a singular volume that visually expands the space, integrating the bathroom area along with kitchen counters and storage seamlessly. A stainless steel peninsula gives identity to the otherwise discreet kitchen space, offering a striking contrast to the wooden ceiling and dining area. The outer wall of the bathroom is clad similarly to the staircase, maintaining a cohesive design approach while tucking away a bright yellow basin that adds pop to the distinctive colour palette of the apartment design.

Creating a sense of openness within the penthouse's limited footprint, several skylights illuminate the spaces on the upper level. The master bedroom is located directly above the kitchen space, reflecting its clean, minimal design, featuring essential furniture and a mirror-clad wardrobe. However, the space stands out with its ceiling adorning a combination of painted timber girders hoisting the exposed brick roof, which, beyond adding contrast and texture, underlines the history of the building by exposing its authentic skeleton.

The spacious en-suite bathroom is framed by large fixed glass panes, acting as a spatial fulcrum to the otherwise private quarters. Equipped with minimally designed fixtures, the space embraces a neutral colour and material palette, complemented by a coloured glass partition, echoing the visual harmony throughout the home. In the water closet space inside the bathroom, the architects juxtapose light grey flooring with bold red sanitaryware, while enveloping the walls and ceiling in a similar hue. A mirror-clad wall extends the space, suggesting an illusion of depth.

The residential interiors demonstrate simple cuboidal forms, complemented by coloured mirrors and glass alongside the uncharacteristic use of vibrant colours in conventionally tucked away spaces like bathrooms and WCs. The NAP penthouse thus establishes a distinct identity, elevating its contemporary character while emphasising the original structure of the distinctly Italian architecture, all through thoughtful, selective and simple interventions.