Discover the Milanese pied-à-terre designed by Patricia Urquiola, blending elegance, comfort, and timeless style for a perfect family retreat.
When Patricia Urquiola takes on a design project, it’s about much more than just creating a beautiful space—it’s about crafting an environment where elegance and comfort coexist effortlessly. The Santoni family’s Milanese pied-à-terre is a perfect example of Urquiola’s genius. Located in the bustling fashion district, this apartment provides the family with a serene escape from the energy of the city.
Urquiola’s design is all about creating spaces that are both stylish and functional, allowing them to meet the needs of the Santoni family while still being a place of relaxation and sophistication. Through her masterful use of materials, color, and texture, she has transformed this apartment into an inviting and inspiring home.
The Power of Color in Design
One of the defining elements of Patricia Urquiola’s work is her use of color. In the Santoni apartment, Urquiola creates a gentle yet captivating palette that serves as the backdrop for the family’s day-to-day life.
The public spaces, such as the living and dining areas, are filled with light blues and soft shades that invite calm and tranquility. These hues open up the space, letting the natural light flood in and creating an airy and inviting atmosphere perfect for entertaining. In contrast, the more private areas of the home embrace warmer tones—rich terracotta and deep, earthy hues that add warmth and intimacy, ideal for quiet moments with the family.
Urquiola’s understanding of color isn’t just about choosing the right shades; it’s about creating a mood. The interplay between warm and cool tones in the apartment adds depth and dimension to each space, enhancing the overall comfort and aesthetic appeal of the home.
Textures and Rugs: Adding Layers of Comfort
Textures are key to Patricia Urquiola’s design philosophy, and the Santoni apartment is no exception. While the focus is not specifically on any one particular item, it’s clear that Urquiola pays great attention to how fabrics and materials work together to create a cohesive feel throughout the home.
Soft, plush upholstery on the sofas and armchairs creates a tactile experience that draws you in. Fabrics are rich and inviting, offering comfort without compromising on style. The rugs, carefully chosen for their complementary textures and patterns, further enhance this feeling of coziness. They create a sense of grounding in each room while allowing the furniture to take center stage.
The beauty of the rugs in this apartment lies in their ability to add visual richness without overwhelming the space. Their subtle patterns and soothing colors contribute to the overall warmth and welcoming atmosphere, providing a visual balance to the vibrant and varied colors used throughout the apartment.
Balancing Family Life and Entertaining Needs
Patricia Urquiola’s design is a testament to her ability to blend practicality with beauty. The Santoni family needed a space that could function as both a private sanctuary and a welcoming environment for hosting guests and business associates. Urquiola’s thoughtful layout achieves this balance perfectly.
The living room, for example, is a space where the family can relax together, but it also works beautifully for socializing. Large, plush sofas invite comfort, while statement pieces like artworks and sculptural elements provide visual interest and elevate the room’s sophistication. The furniture is arranged in a way that encourages conversation and connection, allowing the space to transform easily from a cozy family gathering spot to an elegant entertaining area.
Urquiola also focuses on creating a sense of flow throughout the apartment. The open-plan layout ensures that each space connects naturally, giving the home an airy and open feel. At the same time, Urquiola’s use of partitions and multi-functional furniture ensures that each area feels distinct and purposeful.
The Importance of Materials in Creating a Timeless Space
For Patricia Urquiola, the materials she chooses are an integral part of the design process. In this Milan apartment, she has expertly mixed textures and materials to create an atmosphere that is both luxurious and comfortable. Wood, with its timeless appeal, plays a significant role throughout the space. The rich herringbone flooring and custom wood paneling lend warmth to the apartment, while brass, marble, and other materials add a touch of sophistication and luxury.
The tactile experience of these materials is what sets the space apart. Every piece of furniture, every wall, and every surface has been carefully chosen to create a home that feels both stylish and lived-in. The mix of soft fabrics, plush upholstery, and durable materials ensures that the apartment feels inviting without compromising on quality.
A Personalized Home for the Santoni Family
What makes this Milanese apartment truly unique is its deeply personal nature. Patricia Urquiola didn’t just design a beautiful space; she created a home that reflects the Santoni family’s values and lifestyle. By working closely with the family to understand their needs, Urquiola was able to create a space that is as functional as it is beautiful.
The design focuses on creating a space that adapts to the family’s daily life, whether they’re gathering for a quiet meal or hosting a larger event. The use of color, texture, and layout ensures that each area serves its intended purpose while maintaining an overall sense of unity and flow. The result is a home that feels comfortable and inviting, offering the Santoni family a peaceful retreat in the heart of Milan.
The Influence of Patricia Urquiola on Interior Design
Patricia Urquiola’s approach to design has had a profound influence on the world of interior design. Her ability to merge aesthetics with functionality has made her one of the most sought-after designers today. The Santoni pied-à-terre is a prime example of her skill in creating spaces that are both visually stunning and incredibly livable.
Every detail in this Milan apartment has been carefully considered, from the selection of materials to the arrangement of furniture. Patricia Urquiola’s work is a masterclass in creating environments that inspire and comfort, offering a space where beauty and practicality are perfectly balanced.
Transform Your Home with Patricia Urquiola’s Design Principles
Are you inspired by Patricia Urquiola’s work on the Santoni family’s Milan apartment? Whether you’re refreshing your current home or embarking on a new design project, her design principles can help you create a space that is both beautiful and functional. Focus on balancing color, texture, and materials to create a home that suits your needs and reflects your personal style.
For a touch of warmth, texture, and sophistication, explore the luxurious collection of rugs from TAPIS Studio. Our designs are inspired by the same principles of color, texture, and comfort that you find in Patricia Urquiola’s work. Elevate your space with a rug that complements your home’s unique style and creates a welcoming environment for all who enter.
Photography: Francesco Dolfo
