LIVING
Take, for instance, a 17th-century fireplace in a contemporary living room. The patina of centuries-old marble becomes a focal point against crisp white walls, its opulence softened by the simplicity of Scandinavian-inspired furnishings. Likewise, antique wooden doors sourced from Bolognese palazzos find new life in streamlined kitchens, where handleless cabinetry and stone countertops provide a fresh contrast. Color plays a defining role as well. While Renaissance interiors lean toward deep, jewel-toned hues—emerald greens, sapphire blues, and regal burgundies— modern West Coast design embraces a muted palette of taupes, beiges, and soft grays. The compromise? A base of neutrals accented by strategic pops of rich color, often in the form of statement artwork, throw pillows, or artisanal ceramics. FURNITURE & DÉCOR: BALANCING TRADITION WITH MINIMALISM Furnishing a home that blends Renaissance opulence with West Coast ease requires a thoughtful mix of eras and styles. A velvet- upholstered chaise lounge might sit beside a sleek, mid-century modern coffee table. A gilded Venetian mirror could reflect the natural light pouring in from a steel-framed
frescoes but paired with contemporary lighting fixtures—sleek pendant lamps or recessed lighting that provide illumination without distraction. Another striking combination is the juxtaposition of Renaissance-era wooden beams with polished concrete floors, creating a stunning contrast between rustic warmth and urban cool. Outdoor spaces also play a crucial role in this fusion. Courtyards and terraces, reminiscent of traditional Italian villas, are being reimagined with California-inspired landscaping—drought-tolerant plants, infinity pools, and shaded lounge areas that embrace year-round al fresco living. Large sliding doors erase the boundary between interior and exterior, inviting sunlight to dance across historical stone walls and modern furnishings alike. INTERIORS: OLD MEETS NEW The magic of this design philosophy lies in the details. Renaissance interiors often boast intricate carvings, gold-leaf accents, and richly patterned textiles. To prevent these elements from feeling overwhelming in a modern setting, designers are opting for a restrained approach—allowing one or two historical features to take center stage while keeping the rest of the décor understated.
and a statement. This old-world charm provides a solid foundation for modern enhancements—neutral palettes that allow architectural details to shine, contemporary furnishings that lend an air of relaxed sophistication, and high-tech elements that make daily life seamless. Meanwhile, the influence of Los Angeles brings a sense of airiness, casual elegance, and a deep connection to nature. Floor-to-ceiling windows replace heavy drapery, merging interiors with lush courtyards or sun-drenched terraces. Natural materials—wood, linen, stone—add texture without overwhelming the space. The result? A refined yet livable aesthetic that celebrates both grandeur and simplicity. ARCHITECTURE: A HARMONIOUS FUSION One of the key elements in merging Renaissance charm with West Coast modernity is scale. Bologna’s historical architecture often features grand proportions—high ceilings, expansive entryways, and decorative moldings. To maintain this sense of volume while infusing a modern touch, designers are opting for open-plan layouts that allow spaces to flow naturally into one another. A quintessential example is the use of vaulted ceilings adorned with
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EC Magazines | Bologna Edition 2025
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