ONE STEP UP

Project in partnership with COIMA Image

We are in Italy’s highest residential unit, a penthouse on three levels that practically touches the clouds and the sun. Naturally, this absolutely unique dwelling offers a stupendous 360° view of Milan, taking in the Duomo, the Torre Velasca skyscraper, the central train station and the Pirellone building, before extending to the austere mountains on the horizon. 

The project is developed on three floors, the top one functioning as an independent unit. Access is via a central staircase, pivotal to the distribution of the spaces on all three levels, which are organized to give residents maximum spatial and visual comfort. The entrance area, on the 33rd floor, is completely taken up by the day zone. 

The overall layout centers on a large living space incorporating a spacious passageway, dining area and kitchen, which allows air and light to circulate freely throughout. The space is conceived like a stage, with the different areas divided only by two elements, in a subtle interplay of feints and allusions created by the materials and custom-made furnishings. 

The delicate palette employed by the two design firms draws on a range of whites, and cream, enlivened here and there by tasteful flourishes, such as the fluted paneling in black Okoume wood or the partition wall covered in enameled ceramic tiles. The contrasting materials and finishing touches create a unique, sophisticated environment but with a warm family atmosphere. A natural coziness, accentuated by the square parquet tiles of black brushed oak and the contrasting lacquer finish of the dining room’s striking round table. The elegance of this particular mise en place fits in perfectly with both the optical black and white upholstery of the chairs and the briar wood sideboard. The uniqueness of the bespoke furnishings, lights and accessories gives added refinement to their elegant details. Combined with the numerous modernist touches, the generous use of wood paneling makes the rooms seem larger and warms the atmosphere with its natural hue. In the kitchen, the dark walnut creates a pleasant contrast with the Ambrosia marble of the sink unit, while the key element of the island serves not only as a cutting-edge cooking surface, but also a table for informal lunches or family breakfasts. 

The night area, on the floor below, reprises the colour scheme; its four suites retain their essential unity, though each one, complete with a large closet and a private bathroom finished in precious marble, including Green Island, is laid out differently. 

Time spent in the night zone is made even more relaxing by another living room, furnished with a large custom-made sofa that adds a cosy touch to the area. 

The top floor, the building’s highest, is designed as a separate dwelling, complete with kitchen, bedroom, living room and bathroom facilities. The custom-made furnishings include one last eye-catching feature: a terrace with a Jacuzzi pool, topped by the sky above Milan.