Interviews / 6/12/2024

Contemporary art in a period context

The interior spaces in a private residence in Naples stand out for the colour schemes

Interviewee

Giuliano Dell'Uva

Giuliano Andrea dell’Uva Architetti

The redevelopment of an apartment in Naples emphasizes color schemes, blending absolute white with vibrant hues inspired by Pompeii frescoes. The traditional layout is maintained. Mapei resin flooring was chosen for its monochrome base, enhancing furnishings and artworks.

The colour schemes for the apartment being redeveloped were studied in detail. What was the idea behind that?

The apartment has been completely redesigned with the idea of maintaining the kind of layout of rooms typical of Neapolitan period houses. The spaces also stand out for the choice of colours: ranging from absolute white for the floors, walls and ceilings in the living area to the striking colours in the dining area featuring a wall drawing by the English artist David Tremlett, who was inspired by the colours of Pompeii. The kitchen, the last room in the layout from a visual perspective, was focused on the idea of reflectiveness: steel walls and a kitchen unit made of polished steel.

Tradition and modernity come together to give this space its own distinctive identity. How did you bring together the old and new through the architectural design?

We restored the old ceilings to brighten them up through the use of lime, which softened their shapes and forms. Period doors were incorporated to restore the apartment to its former proportions. The spaces have been raised in stature through craftsmanship of the highest standard.

There are several works of contemporary art in the apartment. How did their presence influence the interior design?

The owners are great contemporary art collectors. The inclusion of artworks is part of the project to transform the property. A place was created to accommodate the works: some of them are dedicated to the home. Tremlett's work is a contemporary fresco that will project the house into the future through something highly traditional.

You chose Mapei resin floorings for this project. Why?

We needed a monochrome base to enhance the furnishings, period doors and works of art. The matt finish creates a bright and delicate atmosphere. This is contrasted by using marble for the bathroom features: washbasins like fountains looking out across the secret garden in this special place.