Two Distinct Souls: 17th Century Apartment in Rome by Punto Zero.

In the heart of Rome‘s historic Monti neighbourhood, Punto Zero transformed a 17th-century apartment into a colourful and bright home. Approaching the project with a keen sensitivity to the existing architectural narrative, the existing bones blend seamlessly with modern design sensibilities. Now articulated around three distinct spaces, each offers a unique character defined by accents of colour blocks.

The spaces reflect ‘two different souls’—the bright and open public area, overlooking a small street in the neighbourhood, and the more intimate, private zone, which looks out to views of internal courtyards and the rooftops of the district. Although unmistakably separated, the two areas remain in visual and spatial connection with each other.

In the living room, a pink and blue capsule emerges as a dedicated reading corner, flanked by a wall wardrobe and a guest bathroom adorned in shades of green. Visually striking, the vibrant blend of colours continues as you move further into the space. The kitchen, separated by the dining area via a glass partition, two totemic cobalt blue structures—jokingly nicknamed Scilla and Cariddi after the mythical sea monsters from Greek mythology—house the refrigerator and oven.

A Playground for Experimentation: Casa Ermete in Rome by Punto Zero.

The design studio transformed the classic linear plan through new volumes and unexpected elements—all while staying true to...

The bedroom is kept simple with white walls in contrast with the public zones. For this space, Punto Zero focussed on the former architecture, reintegrating and recovering original elements, including floors, ceilings and doors. Now in dialogue with the new finishes, such as plastics and chromes, the room unfolds in a vibrant amalgam that echoes the ironic, excessive, romantic and nostalgic cinema of Pedro Almodovàr.

A visual feast for the eyes at every turn, the designers have harmonised the echoes of an old space with the pulse of the present.

A World of Surprises: Barcelona Apartment by Raul Sanchez Architects.

Raul Sanchez divides this spacious and colourful Barcelona apartment into public and private zones via a long and striking timber...

[Images courtesy of Punto Zero. Photography by Carlo Oriente.]