In the heart of Rome, a vibrant new generation of creatives is breathing contemporary life into the Eternal City’s millennia-old history. Among them, Roman designer Ludovica Malagò, cofounder of Studio Malia with Gaia Rebecchini, exemplifies this harmonious fusion in her recent personal project: a stunning renovation of a historic atelier that now serves as her residence. This project not only showcases Malagò’s distinctive design ethos but also revives a space steeped in artistic legacy, transforming it into a captivating blend of past and present.
The Genesis of an Artistic Haven
The apartment, nestled in the prestigious Prati neighborhood, a locale renowned for its artistic pulse, boasts a rich architectural lineage. Originally designed in 1927 by the celebrated architect Mario De Renzi, the building itself is a testament to Roman architectural grandeur. Its facade, adorned with elegant rustication, intricate frescoes, and striking stained-glass windows, hints at the artistic pedigree of its inhabitants. For decades, this space served as the studio of an acclaimed Italian architect, a vibrant hub frequented by a constellation of painters and artists, earning it the affectionate local moniker, "the artists’ condominium."
The journey to reclaiming this storied space began in January 2023 when Malagò and Rebecchini first encountered the apartment. "It left us speechless, even though it had been technically abandoned for years," recalls Rebecchini. The building’s historical significance was undeniable, but its condition presented a considerable challenge. The space had also been the long-time studio of architect Cesare Rovatti, who, according to Rebecchini, was reluctant to part with it. He eventually agreed to sell only after being presented with Studio Malia’s vision for its transformation. "It was immediately clear that this atelier had to return to being the place it once was—a home for artistic creativity," Rebecchini states, underscoring the profound respect the designers held for the space’s past.
A Layered Approach to Renovation
Malagò, who is not only the designer but also the owner of this remarkable apartment, describes the initial encounter as transformative. The apartment spans two distinct levels, each offering a unique character. The lower floor presents a more traditional layout, while the upper floor exudes an intimate, loft-like atmosphere. The renovation demanded a meticulous approach, balancing the preservation of historical elements with the integration of contemporary design.
The entryway, a crucial first impression, was a particular focus for Malagò. "The entryway used to be dark, wedged between load-bearing walls," she explains. "It needed more light—we chose to brighten the space with colors." The transformation is dramatic: a once-gloomy corridor has been reimagined as a vibrant welcome, now adorned with an unusual sunburst mosaic rendered in 12 different colors, a bold declaration of the apartment’s renewed spirit. This striking mosaic serves as a focal point, immediately setting a tone of joy and artistic expression.
Reclaiming Architectural Heritage
The renovation process unearthed a wealth of hidden details, artifacts of previous design interventions that had obscured the building’s original character. "We uncovered many details that had been hidden by previous renovations, and we chose to restore most of them," Malagò shares. Among the serendipitous discoveries was a spiral staircase leading to the loft/study area, its elegant form a testament to De Renzi’s original design. Floral wall moldings, concealed beneath layers of old wallpaper, were carefully brought back to life, adding a touch of timeless elegance. These preserved elements not only honor the building’s history but also enrich the contemporary design with layers of narrative.
The living area, a grand space comprising both kitchen and living room functions, presented an opportunity for innovative spatial planning. The design duo strategically elevated the living space a few feet higher on a platform, creating a subtle yet effective division of zones. Despite this elevation, the sense of flow is seamless, enhanced by the soaring ceilings that flood both areas with natural light. The older, bulky windows in the living area were replaced with an iron-paned variety. "They are a tribute to the facade’s original design, which we rediscovered in the historical archives of the City of Rome," Rebecchini explains. This thoughtful integration of historical architectural motifs into modern design is a hallmark of Studio Malia’s work.
A Palette of Contrasts and Collaborations
The furnishings and material choices throughout the apartment are a deliberate interplay of vintage treasures and contemporary pieces, characterized by bold colors and rich textures. "We really enjoy working with materials and craftsmen," Rebecchini emphasizes. "Almost every piece is the result of collaboration with carpenters, blacksmiths, and stoneworkers." This commitment to artisanal craftsmanship is evident in the bespoke elements that populate the space.
In the living room, a vintage French wooden chest of drawers anchors the space, its antique charm juxtaposed with a contemporary photograph by Massimo Vitali depicting Sicily’s Scala dei Turchi. A pair of 1960s SZ01 armchairs by Martin Visser, crafted from iron and straw, face a custom-made sofa in soothing neutral tones, offering a sophisticated seating arrangement.
The dining area, positioned on a slightly higher platform than the kitchen, features a set of bamboo chairs encircling a wooden table. The striped Murano glass vases adorning the table are by the renowned artist France Thierard, adding a splash of vibrant color and delicate artistry. Above the Boffi stainless-steel kitchen, three vintage spheres by Achille Castiglioni hang as dramatic pendant lights, creating an almost celestial effect. Complementing this industrial-chic element is a 19th-century Piedmontese dining table.
The principal bedroom is a sanctuary of sophisticated comfort. An olive-green lacquered iron staircase leads to the loft, while a custom linen bed is dressed in exquisite textiles. The bedspread, a creation by Madu Cairo, and the plush pillows from Society, contribute to an atmosphere of understated luxury. Malagò’s own artistic touch is visible in a series of paintings depicting Japanese motifs that grace the wall. The burgundy headboard, custom-made by local artisans, adds a touch of regal warmth. A Tynell 9602 floor lamp by Gubi and a pair of armchairs by Maison Drucker stand elegantly before the original stained-glass windows, creating a serene reading nook.
The apartment’s bathrooms also showcase a blend of influences and materials. Subtle Brazilian inspirations can be found in the en suite bathroom, where green cement tiles by Emery & Cie, decorated with botanical motifs, define the floor. Vintage 1950s wicker mirrors complement a custom-made cabinet of bamboo and raffia, designed by Studio Malia.
Weaving a World: Indoor-Outdoor Harmony
A defining feature of the apartment is its seamless integration with a lush terrace, accessible through a large, iron-framed window in the kitchen. This outdoor space acts as a natural extension of the living area, meticulously landscaped to blend with the urban environment. A thoughtful selection of pots in various shapes and sizes houses a diverse array of plants, including climbing varieties, evergreens, Japanese maples, and tropical species, creating a verdant oasis.
The terrace furniture, from Unopiù, is enveloped in custom fabrics from prestigious brands Loro Piana and Rubelli, offering both comfort and style. The dining chairs, designed by Maison Drucker—a historic manufacturer of rattan furniture—are embellished with colorful weaves on their seats and backs, adding a playful yet refined touch. An iron coffee table, designed by Victoria Episcopo, further enhances the outdoor living space.
A Legacy of Artistic Expression
The apartment’s rich history as "the artists’ condominium" is palpable throughout the renovation. Malagò’s selection of furnishings and decorative objects reflects a deep appreciation for artistic craftsmanship and a keen eye for pieces that tell a story. "The furnishings are a mix of new and repurposed pieces," Malagò states, emphasizing her personal approach to curating her home. "We love reusing items that have been discarded."
Antiques crafted from natural materials like straw, raffia, and bamboo create a warm, tactile contrast with modern steel elements, such as the sleek Boffi kitchen island. Works of art and vintage furnishings are given renewed prominence through the strategic use of color and luxurious fabrics. The hallway, for instance, features a dramatic grape-colored carpet and a mirrored ceiling, creating a sense of depth and grandeur. Botanical motifs, appearing on cabinetry, tiles, and wall decorations by interior designer Maria Restivo, evoke romantic gardens, transforming the different spaces into a fantastical pastoral world. This deliberate blurring of interior and exterior boundaries creates a magical ambiance, a serene retreat in the heart of the bustling city.
The commitment to collaborating with skilled artisans is a recurring theme, ensuring that each element, whether antique or contemporary, is imbued with quality and character. The result is an apartment that is not merely a living space but a curated exhibition of design, history, and personal expression, a testament to Studio Malia’s ability to weave together diverse influences into a cohesive and captivating whole. This project stands as a compelling example of how contemporary design can respectfully engage with historical architecture, breathing new life into treasured spaces and continuing their legacy of creativity.
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