The line between an ordinary home and a luxury space is thinner than you might imagine. As Sara Lini and Adriano Frigoli, founders of Nativo – a company specializing in luxury real estate in Milan – demonstrate, transforming an apartment into a refined space does not necessarily require astronomical investments, but rather a strategic vision and attention to detail.
The illusion of space through light
The management of light represents the first fundamental step towards the luxurious transformation of an environment. The wise use of mirrors can completely revolutionize the perception of spaces: from the mirrored walls with an aged effect, as in the kitchen of The Hedonist, to the refined smoked niches of The Alluring, these elements create depth and visually multiply the spaces. Strategic lighting combined with reflective surfaces can transform even the most modest of spaces into a sophisticated environment.
The power of surfaces in the home
The choice of coverings plays a crucial role in the perception of luxury. Precious wallpapers can instantly transform the atmosphere of a room, as demonstrated by the environments of The Dandy with their refined Giardini Wallcoverings fabrics. In bathrooms, the use of noble materials such as pleated marble – visible in The Platonic – or high-quality porcelain stoneware can significantly raise the level of refinement.
Chromatisms and atmospheres
Color is a powerful tool in creating luxurious environments. The color box technique, which involves wrapping the walls and ceiling in the same shade, can create surprising effects, as demonstrated in the bathroom of The Alluring. The bold color combinations and studied contrasts, visible in the spaces of The Flaneur, can radically transform the perception of an environment.
Art as a transformative element
The introduction of artistic elements represents a turning point in the characterization of luxury spaces. It is not just about hanging works on the walls – like the precious pieces by Andy Warhol in The Gallerist – but about creating real domestic galleries through a clever combination of art, design and lighting. Artistic rugs and design objects, such as the Gae Aulenti coffee table, can become functional works of art in themselves.
Textures and materials
The layering of different textures contributes significantly to the creation of a luxurious atmosphere. From the silk coverings of the wardrobes of The Elusive to the classic boiserie, passing through the fine fabrics of the seats and curtains, each tactile surface adds a level of sophistication to the space. The key is to skillfully mix different materials, creating interesting contrasts between smooth surfaces and elaborate textures.
Attention to detail
True luxury is in the details: brass handles, elaborate frames, metallic finishes. Original period elements, when present, should be enhanced and integrated into contemporary design. drapes can transform a simple window into a theatrical element, while carefully selected furnishing accessories add focal points of interest.
A holistic approach
Transforming an apartment into a luxury space requires a coherent overall vision. It is not a question of individual isolated interventions, but of an organic project where each element contributes to the overall harmony.
The key to success lies in skillfully balancing all these elements, creating spaces that not only appear luxurious, but that offer an elevated and authentic living experience. True luxury, in fact, lies not so much in the preciousness of the individual elements, but in their ability to create a unique and engaging atmosphere.
