Italian architect Niccolò Ramacogi has renovated a once-fragmented apartment in Le Marche, transforming it into a cohesive living space. One of the most important parts of the renovation was the kitchen, which has changed from a secondary, functional zone to the true focal point of the home.
Originally hidden behind a small door and interrupted by a protruding pillar, the kitchen had an awkward L-shaped layout that broke the flow of the space. Ramacogi tackled this challenge head-on by widening the entrance and connecting with the adjacent living area. The troublesome pillar was cleverly absorbed into the new built-in cabinetry, transforming it from an architectural obstacle into a key design element.
The kitchen’s deep blue cabinetry, custom-designed by Ramacogi and created by Pedini Arredamenti in Fano, sets a dramatic yet sophisticated tone. The color was carefully selected to complement the apartment’s broader chromatic palette, which includes a statement yellow sofa in the living area and vibrant, eclectic artworks by Lorenzo Cappella.
The choice of materials was also part of the project’s guiding principle, a dialogue between past and present. The original 2000s tiles were replaced with a continuous resin surface extending from the kitchen entrance, creating a clean, modern foundation. This is contrasted by the preserved original parquet, whose warm tones highlight the space’s layered history.
Ramacogi’s approach to furnishings further reinforces this balance. Contemporary pieces sit comfortably alongside vintage finds and design classics, creating a curated yet approachable atmosphere. The Tizio lamp, Wassily Chair, and Ettore Sottsass magazine rack provide a nod to design heritage, while the Cruz table by Bontempi Casa and Plia chairs by Giancarlo Piretti add a modern touch. A flea market chandelier injects a touch of character, and the 120 model coffee table by local designer Matteo Giustozzi grounds the space in its regional context. A custom-made bookshelf by a local carpenter enhances both functionality and warmth.
The bathrooms reflect two distinct moods, echoing the client’s desire for contrasting atmospheres. The black bathroom embraces an industrial aesthetic, with baguette tiles creating a strong textural presence. The tiles’ color shift at 40 cm from the floor, aligned with the sanitary fixtures, prevents the space from feeling heavy, maintaining a sense of visual balance.
In contrast, the second bathroom is a sanctuary of calm. Soft tones and warm materials create a soothing ambiance, with custom wooden cabinetry discreetly housing appliances and structural elements.
