We rigorously select merchandise we consider you may love. If you happen to make a purchase order by means of certainly one of our hyperlinks, we might earn a fee, at no further price to you.

In the case of reimagining a masterpiece, few designers can rise to the problem fairly like David Raffoul and Nicolas Moussallem—a duo famed for his or her edgy but reverent strategy to design. Tasked with respiratory new life right into a 1952 house initially conceived by the legendary Gio Ponti, the design group delivered nothing wanting magic. Casa Fantasia, situated within the coronary heart of Milan, is now an impressed mix of Ponti’s unique genius and David/Nicolas’s modern aptitude.

Curious to see how they pulled it off? From honoring mid-century heritage to including a splash of contemporary whimsy, this house is a masterclass in reinvention. Hold tight—we’re taking you behind the doorways of this historic renovation!

Images by Sara Magni

Who Are David/Nicolas, and Why Are They In every single place Proper Now?

If you happen to’re not already aware of the Lebanese-born, Milan-based energy duo David Raffoul and Nicolas Moussallem, it’s time to get acquainted! Identified for his or her boundary-pushing designs that marry performance with storytelling, the pair have redefined what it means to create areas and objects which are equal elements beautiful and livable.

With initiatives spanning luxurious accommodations, furnishings, and personal houses, David/Nicolas deliver a worldwide sensibility to their work. Their distinctive aesthetic manages to nod to the previous with out feeling caught in it—a expertise that made them the right match for this undertaking.

After which, after all, there’s Gio Ponti. Consider him because the Picasso of mid-century structure and design. From geometric tiles to whimsical furnishings items, his affect is clear in every single place in Italy—and much past. Casa Fantasia, certainly one of Ponti’s lesser-known gems, wasn’t only a residence; it was a canvas for creativity.

Now, with some contemporary perspective and daring updates, it’s making headlines once more.

The Temporary: Reinvent With out Shedding the Magic

The brand new proprietor of Casa Fantasia approached David/Nicolas with distinctive belief—and a novel problem. Might they modernize the house whereas staying true to Gio Ponti’s unique imaginative and prescient?

This wasn’t nearly slapping a contemporary coat of paint on the partitions (though, spoiler alert, some partitions did get vibrant new hues!). The thought was to honor the spirit of Ponti, however with a Twenty first-century twist that feels approachable, inviting, and trendy.

Think about this—a seamless dance the place each aspect unfolds like a dialog between previous and current. Sounds dreamy, proper?

Preserving Historical past with a Twist

Respect for the Authentic Format

One can’t discuss this renovation with out appreciating how David/Nicolas maintained the unique construction of Ponti’s design. The structure was already a gem, with outlined however fluid areas that exude sophistication. As an alternative of gutting or dramatically altering these areas, the pair selected to deal with refinements and enhancements that may honor Ponti’s intentions.

For instance, the lengthy, open dwelling space nonetheless flows fantastically into intimate nooks designed for dialog. It seems like strolling by means of artwork—an adaptable, useful type of artwork.

Hits of Ponti’s Signature Fashion

One of many first belongings you’ll discover is how sure components really feel so distinctly Gio Ponti. From geometric patterns to his love for frolicsome coloration blocking, his fingerprints stay everywhere in the new design. Take, for instance, the flooring! David/Nicolas preserved and up to date the colourful patterns Ponti famously adored—solely now, they carry a contemporary vitality that feels trendy however timeless.

Daviding It Up! Trendy Fare in a Classic Body

Now right here’s the place David/Nicolas actually shine—layering in components that mirror their edgy, modern fashion with out overshadowing Ponti’s imaginative and prescient.

Colour-O-RAMA!

First issues first—the colours. Casa Fantasia is a type of locations the place hues communicate. From the wealthy, forest-green cabinetry to sunny pops of mustard-yellow seating, each nook of the house feels alive. It’s daring with out being loud—a stability solely seasoned designers can handle.

Their strategy to paint isn’t simply aesthetic, although. They used coloration as an emotional device, creating joyful surprises (hey, cobalt staircases!) and grounding ambiances elsewhere. It’s like a visit across the coloration wheel, however by some means…cozy?

Assertion Items with Soul

It wouldn’t be a David/Nicolas undertaking if there weren’t furnishings that makes you gasp (within the great way). From modular sofas with understated curves to playful sconces that appear like jewels, the furnishings are as useful as they’re inventive.

They even designed a number of customized items strategically positioned all through the house. Not solely do these mirror their signature fashion, however additionally they introduce simply the correct amount of recent to this mid-century treasure field.

Tactile and Tangible Particulars

Right here’s a little-known reality about Casa Fantasia (and Ponti): textures are EVERYTHING right here. From the intricate tile work within the bogs to tender, flowing drapes, it’s a tactile haven. David/Nicolas amp this up with layered materials, polished woods, and artisanal rugs.

If you happen to’ve by no means been tempted to run your palms alongside the partitions of a house, this is likely to be your first time.

Why Casa Fantasia Issues

This isn’t only a renovation. It’s a love letter to Italian design, an homage to architectural historical past, and a reminder of how houses can evolve whereas staying rooted of their origins.

Followers of Ponti will recognize how his fingerprints stay intact, however they’re prone to applaud how a lot life David/Nicolas have injected into the house. For the remainder of us? It’s a grasp class in the way to dream massive with interiors—with out erasing what got here earlier than.

What’s Subsequent for David/Nicolas?

After setting the bar sky-high with this reinterpretation, all eyes are on what these two will do subsequent! Keep tuned—they’ve hinted at upcoming collaborations in each hospitality and furnishings design.

And if Casa Fantasia proves something, it’s that they’re masters at mixing the aware of the surprising.

Wish to Fashion Your Area Like Casa Fantasia?

Feeling impressed? Whether or not you’re revamping a historic house or simply trying so as to add a splash of coloration to your front room, there’s a lot to remove from this beautiful undertaking.