Contemporary Transformation of Historic Apartment in Rome
Set Architects reimagines early 20th-century flat with reflective furniture interventions
1Project Scope
Set Architects has renovated a 200 m² early 20th-century apartment in Rome's Nomentano district. Completed in 2026, the project preserves the historical fabric while introducing contemporary elements. The redesign blends traditional layout with modern design vocabulary, featuring reflective surfaces and minimalist details that redefine spatial perception.
2Architectural Approach
Led by Onorato di Manno and Andrea Tanci, the team developed innovative solutions respecting the building's original character. Premium brands like Flos and Cassina supplied lighting and furniture. Strategic placement of mirrors and metallic finishes enhances natural light penetration, creating illusion of expanded space throughout the flat.
3Material Selection
The material palette combines wood, glass and steel, with distinctive surface treatments from Abet Laminati MEG and Bannach. Foglie d'oro's gold leaf accents introduce luxurious textures. This careful material selection establishes visual dialogue between historical structure and contemporary insertions, achieving harmonious contrast.
4Spatial Reconfiguration
Maria Lidia Tamburro's interior design creates fluid transitions between functional zones. Engineering consultant Daniele Sansoni ensured structural integrity during renovations. The project improves spatial efficiency without altering load-bearing walls, documented through Federico Farinatti's architectural photography.
5Design Highlights
Reflective furniture pieces serve as both functional elements and spatial expanders. Mirrors and polished metal surfaces generate optical illusions that counteract the apartment's original narrow proportions. The design demonstrates how technological interventions can respectfully update traditional Roman residential architecture.
6Sustainable Features
Energy-efficient insulation systems and LED lighting solutions reduce the building's carbon footprint. 60% of existing materials were repurposed. The project meets contemporary environmental standards while preserving historical authenticity, setting benchmark for eco-conscious heritage renovations in urban contexts.
7Local and Global Impact
This Nomentano renovation serves as prototype for Rome's urban regeneration initiatives. Featured on ArchDaily, the project sparked international discourse about contemporary interventions in historic housing. Its ISSN 0719-8884 certification underscores architectural publishing's recognition of this innovative approach.
8Contribution to Design Trends
Set Architects' work pioneers new methodology for adapting historic structures to modern living. The transformative potential of reflective surfaces suggests emerging trends in residential design. Documented as one of 2026's most innovative interior projects, it redefines possibilities for heritage conservation through technology.
Original article: ArchDaily Global — Roma'da Tarihi Daireye Çağdaş Dokunuş