Matteo Thun & Partners has meticulously redesigned 72 residential units within Milan's renowned Torre Velasca, a mid-century skyscraper conceived by BBPR. This ambitious project, encompassing floors 19 through 26, will feature a collection of suites and apartments, including expansive duplex penthouses that offer breathtaking vistas of the cityscape. The renovation, set to be unveiled in stages from fall 2026, skillfully merges vibrant hues and quintessential Italian design elements into one of Milan's most emblematic architectural structures.
The redesign by Matteo Thun & Partners is a harmonious blend of the tower’s brutalist heritage with contemporary luxury, establishing a new residential benchmark within Milan's skyline. The project respects the original architectural intent while introducing modern amenities and a sophisticated aesthetic. This transformation ensures that Torre Velasca not only retains its iconic status but also evolves to meet the demands of modern urban living, providing a unique blend of historical charm and innovative design.
Preserving Torre Velasca's Original Splendor
The interior refresh by Matteo Thun & Partners carefully respects Torre Velasca's inherent architectural charm. Following a comprehensive restoration of the tower by Asti Architetti and developer Hines, the design team preserved many original features, including kitchen and bathroom tiles, historic doors, and window frames. The apartments also retain their distinctive loggias, which offer expansive views of Milan and are a key element of the tower's upper volume. Despite challenges posed by the building's original proportions, such as relatively low ceilings and compact rooms, the studio introduced glossy finishes to enhance natural light and create a more spacious feel. Thoughtful adjustments were made to floor plans to incorporate larger showers and walk-in closets, improving functionality without compromising the building's historical integrity. In collaboration with Italy's Ministry of Culture, a kitchen wall was partially removed to introduce a cocktail counter, seamlessly connecting the cooking and living areas, allowing more natural light into the kitchen, and fostering a convivial atmosphere.
The design philosophy centered on integrating contemporary living with the building's protected heritage. Every decision, from material selection to spatial reconfiguration, was made with a deep appreciation for Torre Velasca's past. The preservation of original elements like the loggias and internal fixtures ensures that residents experience the unique character of the building, while modern interventions provide comfort and style. The thoughtful use of reflective surfaces addresses the challenge of smaller spaces, maximizing light and openness. The strategic alteration of the kitchen layout exemplifies how historical constraints can be transformed into innovative design solutions, creating a more fluid and interactive living environment. This meticulous approach ensures that the renovated residences offer a sophisticated yet authentic experience, honoring the legacy of BBPR's original vision while ushering Torre Velasca into a new era of residential luxury.
A Milanese Palette: Pink Velvet and Italian Design Heritage
The material and color palette for the Torre Velasca residences is deeply inspired by the building's own architectural essence. Matteo Thun & Partners collaborated with Italian textile house Dedar to create bespoke velvet wall coverings in a soft, dusty pink, directly mirroring the tower's exterior plaster. This unique color brings the building's iconic character indoors, elegantly paired with custom mustard-yellow sofas designed for Molteni and distinctive coffee tables featuring polished stone finishes. The interiors are further enriched with warm wood accents and deep green details, culminating in a design that resonates with Milan's storied history of furniture craftsmanship. The furnishings are an eclectic collection spanning several decades of Italian design, featuring pieces by legendary designers such as Gio Ponti and Afra and Tobia Scarpa. Noteworthy inclusions are Cassina's Utrecht armchair in blue felt with contrasting green stitching and Oluce lighting fixtures produced in custom colors specifically for these apartments. Matteo Thun & Partners also designed custom wardrobes and bedside furniture, meticulously crafted by Italian manufacturers, ensuring a cohesive and authentically Italian aesthetic throughout the residences.
This carefully curated selection of materials and furnishings creates a distinctly Milanese ambiance, blending historical reverence with contemporary elegance. The dusty pink velvet walls serve as a subtle yet powerful homage to Torre Velasca's exterior, establishing a visual and tactile connection between the inside and out. The interplay of mustard yellow, warm woods, and deep greens evokes a sense of sophisticated comfort, reflecting Milan's reputation as a global design capital. Each piece of furniture, thoughtfully chosen or custom-designed, contributes to a narrative of Italian excellence and timeless style. The integration of design classics with bespoke elements ensures that the residences are not only luxurious but also deeply rooted in cultural heritage. This meticulous attention to detail, from custom textiles to bespoke furniture, transforms each apartment into a unique space that celebrates both the building's legacy and Italy's enduring influence on design, offering residents an immersive experience of Milanese artistry and sophistication.