In the heart of Palermo, Settimo Boutique Apartment represents a refined reinterpretation of hospitality, challenging the conventions of standardized tourist accommodations. Drawing inspiration from the concept of exclusivity found in boutique experiences, the project, conceived by La Leta Architettura, embodies the principles of thoughtful and high-quality design.
The apartment, completely restructured, unfolds across three sequential spaces, one of which is a mansard. These areas connect to a terrace offering panoramic views, creating a fluid interplay between interior and exterior. The design’s core innovation lies in the attic space, where the sleeping area becomes the heart of the residence, bathed in light through dual zenithal apertures.
The architectural intervention required careful sectional work to balance spatial usability with a comprehensive functional program. A trapezoidal volume, tailored to the roof’s slope, encloses the bathroom and elegantly integrates ancillary spaces. On one side of this volume, a custom-designed Carrara marble vanity creates a focal point; on the other, a compact open wardrobe utilizes the lower ceiling height effectively.
The bed, suspended and paired with the trapezoidal volume as a headboard, introduces a sense of weightlessness, while a freestanding bathtub is positioned at its foot, perfectly aligned with the skylight above. This layout fosters a dialogue between function, aesthetics, and natural light, encapsulating a serene yet dynamic atmosphere.
Adjacent to the sleeping area, an entry/living room acts as a transitional zone, leading to the kitchen. Custom-designed retractable panels lend the kitchen a seamless integration within the overall design. The journey culminates in the terrace, paved with handmade tiles following a bespoke design, further underscoring the attention to detail.
Reflected surfaces throughout the apartment multiply spatial perceptions, enhancing the fluidity and connectivity of spaces. The color palette alternates between the vibrancy of green and the warm tones of Canaletto walnut, the latter imparting a sense of elegance and intimacy.
CREDITS
Project: Settimo Boutique Apartment
Studio: La Leta Architettura
Location: Palermo, Italy
Year: 2024
Photo: Peter Molloy