The redevelopment project of the historic buildings located in Via Tantardini 1-3, Milan, carried out by the Giuseppe Tortato Architetti studio, represents a sartorial architectural intervention of great sensitivity. This initiative has transformed two early 20th-century buildings with simple but pleasant architecture into a modern and elegant residential complex, maintaining the dignity and historical essence of the original structures and creating something new and distinctive for the city.
The intervention, which involved an area of approximately 1000 square metres, led to the creation of 18 small flats, each with unique characteristics and some with direct access from the street. The project was characterised by a tailored approach, avoiding self-celebratory solutions to focus instead on enhancing the simple but pleasant architecture of the early 20th century. The renovation of the façade aimed to harmonise the colours and materials, introducing elegant touches that respect the historical era of the buildings while keeping a modern eye. Particular attention was paid to the design of the entrance gates, parapets and grilles, which are characterised by a special design with circular solids and voids. This innovative geometry not only visually enriches the building but also provides light shielding and protection for the flats on the street. The same attention to detail is found in the façade lighting, specially designed for this project.
The most striking and innovative part of the project is located in the inner façade, hidden from the view of passers-by: a small private and communal green oasis on the first floor. This area is characterised by sharp, angular lines, softened by the presence of vegetation emerging from the large planters in burnished metal, a material that also characterises the top mansard floor and the new stairwell. Large round portholes of various diameters stand out in the planters, providing zenithal lighting to the living spaces below, double-height lofts. Great care was also taken in the common areas. The atrium, staircase and bicycle storage areas feature burnished metal cladding juxtaposed with a boiserie of light wood strips, creating an elegant and welcoming contrast. The lighting is designed to be 'soft' and pleasant, with transparent pendant elements from the Diphy series produced by Linea Light Group. The warm grey stoneware flooring, embellished with small micalescent inserts, contributes to a refined and contemporary ambience. The stairs, simple and elegant and clad similarly to the atrium, are lit by long rectangular skylights during the day and by LEDs along the walls at night.
The flats in Via Tantardini are all different, from small lofts with direct access from the street to attics and flats with private gardens or terraces. This variety reflects the customised approach of the project, aimed at satisfying a wide range of housing needs within a historic urban context.
The renovation of the buildings in Via Tantardini is an excellent example of how the past and present can coexist harmoniously, enriching the urban fabric of Milan. The project, while respecting the history and original architecture, has introduced elements of modernity and comfort, offering residents an elegant and functional living space.
