Interior architecture emerges from a complex and dynamic relationship between “container” and “content”—concepts that go beyond the mere practical function of spaces. The container represents a carefully conceived spatial creation: it is the architectural envelope that holds and enhances the content. The content, on the other hand, is the interior design itself, in constant dialogue with the surrounding environment. When the container and content integrate in a complementary way, they create harmony that brings balance to the space. Only in this harmony can one fully experience a complete visual and emotional experience.
How to Design a Balanced Space
In interior architecture, the symbiosis between space and furnishings represents a fundamental balance. The container, or architectural structure, and the content, that is, the interior design elements, must interact harmoniously to create an engaging visual and sensory experience. This relationship is crafted through careful, targeted choices, spanning from furniture arrangement to the selection of materials, colors, and finishes. Each detail contributes to creating an environment that “speaks” to those who inhabit it.
Nel nostro progetto "Doppia sfumatura", ad esempio, abbiamo cercato di esprimere questa simbiosi con delicatezza. Gli spazi abitativi si articolano attraverso un gioco di luci ed ombre, dove gli arredi si fondono con la geometria architettonica. La percezione visiva dei tre ambienti comunicanti e la cura per le finiture di ogni singolo elemento sono i cardini del progetto, alla continua ricerca di contrasti sottili tra materiali, luminosità e atmosfere. Un cromatismo studiato nei dettagli contribuisce a creare un dialogo raffinato tra contenuto e contenitore, amplificando la coerenza dell’insieme.
Dialogue Across Eras
Un altro esempio che valorizza la relazione tra contenitore e contenuto, ma questa volta creando un’armonia soprattutto temporale, è il progetto "Palazzo Dipinto", situato nel cuore del centro storico di Lucca.
The main challenge in such a historically significant building was to balance the heritage of the building with the needs of modern functionality. The layout design centers on a harmonious integration of historic spaces and contemporary interventions, with custom-made furnishings and carefully selected materials such as wood, iron, and natural stone, paying homage to local craftsmanship.
Here, the relationship between container and content is created through careful design choices, where each element has been thoughtfully crafted to enrich the space without overwhelming it. Natural light plays a fundamental role, gently filtering through windows to highlight interior details. This balance between history and modernity gives the space a refined quality, inviting those who inhabit it to feel part of its timeless narrative.
Harmony Requires Simplicity
A key principle in design is simplicity—not as extreme minimalism, but as the pursuit of purity and balance. Architect Frank Lloyd Wright once said, “Simplicity and repose are the qualities that measure the true value of any work of art,” and we believe this is also true for design and architecture.
The choice of clean lines, natural materials, and neutral tones allows the space to “breathe,” imparting a sense of peace and well-being. Simplicity does not mean “bare,” but rather meticulous attention to detail: the carefully chosen tones of the interiors, the refined finishes, and the natural light combine to create a harmonious and welcoming environment, where each element finds its place without dominating others.
In this context, simplicity becomes a powerful tool to highlight the essence of a space, allowing architectural lines and materials to tell the deeper, authentic story of the place. If we can harmonize content and container, spaces will not only meet practical needs but will also evoke emotions and enrich the daily lives of those who experience them.
