Maximising vertical space

Vaulted ceilings and extremely compact dimensions were the starting point for the renovation of Casa Ludekla in San Giorgio a Cremano near Naples, a project that has transformed a 60-square-metre apartment into a modern, functional and welcoming home. The client’s primary requirement was “the need for more space without losing the historic charm of the vaulted ceilings”, explains the interior design firm Soluzioni New Lab, which oversaw the restyling project. In particular, the owner wanted the future home to have a small study and a walk-in wardrobe. Given the minimal floor area, the design solution was to fully exploit the vertical space by creating habitable mezzanines, leaving the beautiful original ceilings untouched. This approach optimised the layout while adding functionality and comfort.

“By carefully studying the floor plan, which consisted of three large rooms separated by a load-bearing wall, we created a living zone with a kitchen and a mezzanine study,” the studio explains. “The second room was transformed into the bedroom, complete with a built-in wardrobe and a mezzanine walk-in closet located above the bathroom and laundry area. The bathroom is connected directly to the kitchen and separated from the bedroom by flush doors to enhance visual breadth and maintain a minimalist aesthetic.” This same principle was applied to the window frames, which were selected for their profiles and colours to ensure they do not disrupt the sense of understated elegance.

The project sought to preserve an “old-world feel” by using natural materials such as stone-effect surfaces, wood and bronzed metal for the tapware, while accentuating the unique character of the two vaulted ceilings. Ceramic tiles played a central role in the renovation. For the bathroom and kitchen floors, the designers specified the Ease/22 collection from Ricchetti, which stands out for its neutral tones that adapt seamlessly to any setting. This porcelain stoneware is defined by a tactile quality reminiscent of ancient stone, which “fully meets the client’s request to maintain the natural feel of the materials”, comments Soluzioni New Lab. The chosen colour, Sand, adds significant brightness and creates a sense of greater spaciousness. To further enhance this effect, large 120×120 cm slabs were installed “to minimise grout lines and ensure continuity from one room to the next”, the studio continues.

A significant structural intervention was also carried out using macroporous plasters, a chemical barrier on all walls and lime-based paint to resolve serious issues with rising damp and mould. By combining innovative materials with effective structural interventions, the design achieves a remarkable sense of clarity and cohesion.