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Design Dilemma: A Loft of Boxes in Florence, Italy

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We’re used to thinking of lofts in the American tradition. That is, an old industrial building, a factory or a warehouse,  in a gritty part of a city that has been converted into a residential use. These lofts feature heating ducts, iron work, exposed brick and concrete. But American style lofts are not the only ones out there. For example, in Italy, a loft in downtown Florence, formerly a dry cleaners in the 1800’s and then a woodworking shop in the 1950’s, was converted into a chic, warmly minimal space by architect Alessandro Capellaro.

Capellaro installed more than 300 vintage ballot boxes throughout the loft. The boxes have taken on an integral architectural role, maintaining the historic flavor of the home, while allowing the space to open up.

Above, the old ballot boxes (won at an auction) function as a room divider between the larger living space and the sleeping area.  Capellaro left the old industrial tile floor and finished the walls off in a rough concrete. Below, the boxes even function as cabinets in the loft’s workspace.

Although actual furnishings are kept to a minimum, there is plenty of color and fun here.

Glass pendant lamps in bright primary colors add color, as well as a display of vintage colored vases, below.

Here’s a view of the living room. Ballot boxes function as bookshelves and a place to store firewood. They even provide a support for the built-in couch. Pops of bright color keep everything lively:

Below is a view of the loft’s bedroom. Again, ballot boxes serve as the bedframe and support.

Here’s the loft’s bathroom:

And kitchen:

And finally study:

Have you ever seen the ballot box put to better use?

Images: courtesy atcasa.corriere.it