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P R O F I L E | M O N TA L B A A R C H I T E C T S
for the family. "The second," they note, "was the introduction of
a circular staircase that perforates all levels, thus linking [their]
programs, as well as generating new visual connections between
the different floors."
Such calculations resulted in an architecturally assertive,
sharp-looking and highly serviceable space that draws its
dynamic vibe not only from its staircase, but other eye-popping
elements, such as a spectacular glass-walled room for wine stor-
age that evokes the industrial bones of the broader building. "The
asymmetry between the modern, comfortable living spaces to the
historical infrastructure and exterior façade create a story of the
clients' longstanding connection to the city and its evolution," the
duo offers. "Inside, new floor slabs and natural materials comple-
ment the existing brick façade and concrete slabs, giving equal
importance to the existing materials as well as to the new ones."
The architects were sufficiently bewitched by the space's possi-
bilities from the start. "The existing industrial structure space was
very powerful with its regional baroque design, rich with texture
and history," they say. "The result is a space that does not negate
its origins but rather enhances its historical power through working
with precise actions and restoration practices. The design finds
original ways of sculpting the natural light, which comes in through
the existing arched industrial windows, and complementing it
with a material palette that brings warmth to the different spaces."
Warmth is needed in project of this scale. The space is an
ambitious 5,150 square feet, as is its scope, which called on the
architects to maintain the historical character and texture of the
space while revising it for contemporary living and the needs of a
growing family. Realizing this duality meant a program aimed at
retaining exterior walls and fostering a lightness within the interior.
"Solid walls were softened with rounded corners, and wherever
possible, transparent glass was used to embrace natural light and
open the space," note the architects. They point to the palette of
light oak wood, smoked glass, and black marble that was selected
to create a minimal backdrop for a curated furniture and art collec-
tion throughout. What's more, each level was designed to serve a
specific purpose: the first floor for living spaces, the second floor
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