Living the Alps: Interior Architecture by Francesca Neri Antonello

Francesca Neri Antonello is a master of domesticating natural and raw materials, using them to create a warm intimacy for those who live with cold alpine temperatures. Her projects center around stone, iron, and wood, which is often recovered or burned to obtain the characteristic burnished color. She brings together design thinking, craftsmanship, and a strong empathy with her clients, creating interiors that are tailored to their personal needs. The enveloping atmospheres are enhanced by fabrics and the skillful combination of artificial and natural light.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 26 March 2024
Publisher: Mondadori Electa

This captivating book delves into a highly specialized realm within interior architecture, specifically focusing on the captivating world of mountains. Here, the interplay between the surrounding landscape and the local identity takes center stage, creating a unique and deeply intertwined tapestry. Within the pages of this volume, we encounter a collection of stunning houses nestled within the majestic Swiss Alps. These homes, located in the picturesque canton of Ticino and the enchanting Engadine region, have undergone a remarkable transformation. Their interior spaces have been painstakingly demolished and reimagined, resulting in spaces that are both functional and aesthetically captivating.

At the forefront of this architectural journey is Francesca Neri Antonello, a true master of harnessing natural and raw materials to create warm and intimate spaces. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the unique challenges posed by alpine environments, Francesca skillfully incorporates stone, iron, and, most prominently, wood into her designs. She ingeniously reclaims or purposefully burns wood to achieve the distinctive burnished color that adds a touch of rustic charm to these interiors. Wood, as Francesca aptly observes, is a living matter, carrying the weight of memory and shaping our personal identities. By incorporating it into her designs, she weaves a tapestry of nostalgia and introspection, creating spaces that resonate with the inhabitants' unique experiences and aspirations.

Beyond her technical expertise, Francesca brings a unique blend of design thinking, craftsmanship, and a profound empathy for her clients. Each element of the interior is meticulously designed to measure, ensuring a perfect fit for the spaces and the people who will inhabit them. From furniture to doors, stairs to fireplaces, and lamps to accessories, every choice is made with care, taking into account the individual needs and preferences of those who will call these spaces home. The resulting interiors are not merely functional but also deeply personal, reflecting the unique identities and aspirations of the inhabitants.

To enhance the enveloping atmospheres of these spaces, Francesca skillfully combines artificial and natural light. She carefully selects fabrics that evoke a sense of comfort and warmth, while also incorporating natural textures and materials to create a harmonious blend of elements. The interplay of light and shadow adds depth and dimension to the interiors, creating a sense of tranquility and serenity that is truly captivating.

In summary, this book serves as a testament to Francesca Neri Antonello's exceptional talent and dedication to the art of interior architecture. Through her meticulous attention to detail, her ability to harness natural materials, and her deep empathy for her clients, she has created spaces that are not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful. By exploring the world of mountains through the lens of interior design, Francesca has opened up a new realm of possibilities, showcasing the power of architecture to shape our lives and connect us with our surroundings.

Weight: 1338g
Dimension: 236 x 294 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9788891839558