Matteo Thun Revitalizes Milan's Torre Velasca with Historically Inspired Interiors
In a significant architectural undertaking, Italian architect Matteo Thun has reimagined the interiors of Milan's historic Torre Velasca, breathing new life into the iconic mid-century skyscraper. His design philosophy centers on a deep respect for the building's original essence, meticulously reinterpreting its material palette and color schemes. The result is a harmonious blend of historical integrity and contemporary living, where elements like the tower's signature dusky pink facade serve as key inspirations for the new residential spaces. This thoughtful renovation project encompasses 72 diverse apartments, ranging from elegant suites to expansive duplex penthouses, each reflecting a narrative that extends the tower's rich legacy into the future.
Thun's studio approached the interior design of the Torre Velasca with a clear objective: to allow the building's inherent character and the vision of its original architects, BBPR, to guide the contemporary intervention. Rather than imposing a stark contrast, the design seamlessly integrates new elements by drawing directly from the tower's existing materials and colors. A crucial aspect of this reinterpretation involved preserving many of the original architectural details. Doors, window frames, loggias, and the distinctive tiles in bathrooms and kitchens were carefully retained, celebrating the tower's authentic heritage. These preserved features are now thoughtfully juxtaposed with carefully selected modern furnishings and timeless design classics, creating interiors that feel both rooted in history and distinctly contemporary.
The color scheme throughout the apartments is a direct homage to the Torre Velasca's original hues. In the living areas, custom-made velvet wall coverings, developed by Dedar, echo the soft pink plaster of the tower's exterior, creating a cohesive visual link between the interior and its architectural shell. Thun explained that the building's specific pink plaster, along with the blue and green floor tiles found within the apartments and loggias, formed the foundational palette for the entire project. This foundation was then expanded upon, with deeper shades of green and blue being introduced to define more intimate spaces such as entrance halls and bedrooms, providing a nuanced and layered aesthetic.
Beyond the residential units, Thun's extensive work also included the design of the ground floor's reception area, lobby, and corridors, ensuring a unified aesthetic throughout the building's public and private spaces. This project transcended a typical interior design brief for Thun's studio, evolving into what he describes as "a lesson in architecture." Working within the distinct framework of Torre Velasca challenged the team to think primarily as architects, prioritizing the building's structural and historical context. The endeavor became a journey of discovery, with the tower itself acting as the ultimate mentor, guiding the process of making its unique character relevant for contemporary inhabitants without deviating from BBPR's foundational vision.
This meticulous renovation highlights a respectful dialogue between historical architecture and modern design needs. Thun's intervention ensures that the Torre Velasca continues to evolve, adding a new chapter to its storied existence while honoring its original artistic and architectural integrity. The project stands as a testament to how iconic structures can be reinterpreted for future generations, preserving their soul while adapting to contemporary lifestyles.
