Italian Mastery

"Made in Italy" sets the standard for a Berlin residential renovation

A Berlin gallery owner acquired two adjacent apartments on the top floor of a prestigious Berlin pre-war building—once home to the bakers' guild offices. Merging these two units into one cohesive home required orchestrating a complex construction and renovation process. Studio Centoventi, architects based in Piacenza, led the project remotely while stationing Italian craftsmen on-site to ensure precision and control. The work began with a feasibility study and necessary building permits, followed by strategic structural planning. Rather than create a sprawling loft, the architects preserved the two generous former office spaces and carefully positioned the bedroom and bathroom suite at the rear—essentially configuring one unit as the living area and the other as a private sanctuary. The transition between them evolved into a "filter room," a conceptual and physical centerpiece requiring only minimal intervention. A monochrome mosaic-tiled western wall introduces a subtle red accent without overwhelming the space. Managing the entire design, renovation, and finishing process from Italy demanded considerable logistical coordination, yet it allowed the studio to maintain rigorous quality standards throughout. This international collaboration demonstrates how global expertise can enhance rather than replace local craftsmanship. Despite their experience, Studio Centoventi faced the challenge of translating their design vision across borders and through to the final furnishings—lighting fixtures, installation systems, and custom-designed pieces all fell under their purview. Working with trusted local craftsmen from Piacenza proved invaluable; communication flowed seamlessly, enabling meticulous coordination down to the finest details. The material palette remained deliberately restrained: oak flooring and soft plaster walls create a refined backdrop. Light becomes the defining element—carefully positioned ceiling details channel light through the entire apartment like illuminated pathways. This thoughtful interplay of warm, understated tones achieves what appears effortless: a minimalist interior that genuinely welcomes you in.

www.centoventi.com