Inspired by the idea of the White Cube, the project by Italian studio Pierattelli Architetture is a manifesto of subtle elegance and conscious integration of architecture into the natural landscape. Villa M, located in the midst of the picturesque hills surrounding Florence, was designed as a neutral and minimalist block that blends harmoniously with the surrounding greenery.
From the terraces one can enjoy the beautiful Tuscan views
Photo by Iuri Niccolai
A mid-20th century villa in a new look
Imagine a house that is like a gallery - a space filled with light, tranquility and artfully chosen details. That's exactly the effect achieved in this project. The house, located in northern Italy, was designed in the spirit of the white cube concept. It is an interior where silence and balance reign, but not falling into coldness. Thanks to attention to detail carefully selected materials and timeless colors, it is cozy and full of class. The architects opted for white, natural wood and sand tones, complemented by accents of chrome-plated metal and glass. Each room is a thoughtful composition of aesthetics and functionality. This is a project that can inspire not only lovers of Italian design, but also those who dream of an interior that is a backdrop for everyday life - subtle, elegant and timeless.
The interior of the villa resembles an art gallery
Photo by Iuri Niccolai
What is the white cube theory?
White cube concept, or the "white cube" concept, is a term taken from the art world, which over time has also penetrated architecture and interior design. It denotes a space with a neutral, minimalist character, which becomes a background for presented content (e.g. artworks, furniture).
The main features of a white cube:
- White or light-colored walls - are meant to neutralize the effect of color on the perception of the space.
- Minimalism - no distracting details or ornaments.
- Natural or studio lighting - even, often hidden or directional.
- Purity of form - the interior resembles an "empty stage" that can take on different roles.
In the context of interior design, the white cube is a consciously limited aesthetic in which space is the backdrop for life, furniture and art. It works especially well in modern, minimalist or museum-inspired arrangements. It can also serve as a backdrop for contrasting elements, such as designer furniture, artwork, or an upholstered bed in a more intense color.
The villa was decorated according to the white cube concept
Photo by Iuri Niccolai
Functionality and comfort on three levels
This is a place with history. The villa was built in the late 1950s, and has now been given new life through a thorough renovation and interior design, where the past meets timeless charm. On three floors with a total area of one thousand square meters, the architects created a space that combines respect for Tuscan heritage with a modern approach to form and function. Behind the sparing form of the facade is an interior full of light, top-quality materials and details that tell a coherent, sophisticated story.
- The main design consideration was to create simple and harmonious spaces that emphasize the character of furnishings and textures, while bringing out the spaciousness of the interiors without overwhelming them. It is a neutral form that harmonizes with the environment and nature, giving space for the owner's personality to shine through," explains architect Andrea Pierattelli.
The villa was built in the late 1950s, and has now been given new life thanks to a thorough renovation and interior design
Photo by Iuri Niccolai
More space, more light, more harmony
The space pays homage to Tuscan tradition on the one hand, while drawing on the language of contemporary design on the other. The stylish simplicity of the facade conceals the interiors, where every detail tells a story of harmony between what was and what is new. As part of a comprehensive renovation, Villa M gained a new quality, both spatially and functionally. The architects significantly increased its volume, expanding the existing layout to include additional rooms, creating a more comfortable and versatile living space. Most of the interiors open to the south, providing excellent light, which enhances the feeling of spaciousness. The first floor is furnished with a large, formal living room, a kitchen connected to the dining room and an intimate library. Each of these rooms was designed with comfort and visual coherence of the entire villa in mind. On the first floor there are four comfortable bedrooms, providing a private area for the household members. The redesign of the roof and floors made it possible to create larger, more open spaces, as well as to move the interior staircase of the living room to the north side. This move resulted in a clear and flowing functional layout that meets modern standards and the needs of contemporary users. Among other things, a gym and a spa area have been arranged in the basement, while a laundry room, technical rooms and a cinema room in green tones are located in the rear of the house.
The house features, among other things, an impressive cinema room
Photo by Iuri Niccolai
Interior with Italian soul and modern character
Consistent aesthetics, an elegant color palette and sophisticated details create a space that exudes calm, class and Italian finesse. The design is based on a combination of contemporary minimalism with timeless elegance and a subtle influence of modern classic style. Throughout the apartment, a commitment to quality materials and proportions is evident - from the wall finishes to the furniture and accessories. This interior doesn't scream - it tells the story of a conscious lifestyle, where functionality goes hand in hand with aesthetics, and every design element has its legitimate place.
The design is based on a combination of contemporary minimalism with timeless elegance and a subtle influence of modern classic style
Photo by Iuri Niccolai
The living room at Villa M impresses with its spaciousness and perfectly balanced color composition. Two large, modern sofas in a saturated, refined shade of blue provide a distinctive accent in a neutral setting. They are accompanied by upholstered armchairs with a bold geometric pattern, which complete the seating arrangement. Attention is also drawn to the centrally located carpet continuing the use of intriguing patterns. In addition, it ties the arrangement together and adds to the coziness of the interior. An important point of the living room is the fireplace with a stone surround. Its cladding in a shade of dark green and with a pronounced white lining is consistent with the play of textures and patterns used here. A sculptural, modern lamp with an organic shape and light structure was suspended above the lounge area. It is a subtle but effective detail that crowns the entire composition. The light diffuses softly through the room, creating a pleasant atmosphere conducive to relaxation and meetings. Thanks to large glass windows, the living room visually connects to the garden, bringing greenery and natural light inside.
Sofas in a saturated, refined shade of blue provide a distinctive accent
Photo by Iuri Niccolai
The kitchen is a perfect example of functionality combined with elegance. The cabinetry in a warm shade of beige covers the entire surface of one of the side walls, creating a harmonious whole with the surroundings. The focal point of the kitchen is an island with a marble countertop, which flows seamlessly into the dining space. The lower part of the island is distinguished by fluted fronts in the shade of Italian pistachio. The whole is complemented by a sink with a decorative gold faucet. Above the island hangs a striking lamp, consisting of many individual gold petals that cast a warm, soft light. The whole is complemented by a large painting, introducing an element of art into the kitchen.
A striking gold lamp hangs above the pistachio-shaded island
Photo by Iuri Niccolai
Bedrooms with a view of Florence
A private area was placed on the first floor of Villa M. This space is an oasis of tranquility and natural beauty, the focal point of which is the vast amount of natural light streaming in through the south-facing windows. The interior perfectly combines functionality with elegance, offering privacy and comfort to the residents. The two master bedrooms, located on this level, are true places of relaxation. Each has a terrace that opens up a view of some of Florence's most beautiful landscapes, as well as a private Jacuzzi for relaxing surrounded by extraordinary views. Clean geometric forms and carefully selected textures in neutral-colored furniture highlight the sophisticated nature of the interiors, creating a cohesive, harmonious space that is conducive to relaxation.
Four bedrooms are located on the first floor
Photo by Iuri Niccolai
The energetic, colorful twin guest rooms, on the other hand, bring some fun and dynamism to this calm, subtle interior. Their distinctive color accents provide a contrast to the subdued palette of the master bedrooms, while perfectly complementing the overall concept of the space. Thanks to a thoughtful arrangement and the use of high-quality materials, the upstairs becomes not only functional, but also aesthetically consistent with the rest of the house. It is a place that combines comfort, privacy and a unique atmosphere, making every moment spent on this level special.
The bedrooms have been equipped with terraces with private Jacuzzis
Photo by Iuri Niccolai
New face of former utility rooms
Villa M's outdoor spaces are not only a carefully designed setting for the elegant interior, but also an integral part of the entire architectural design - a place to meet, relax and be close to nature. With finesse, the designers transformed the former utility rooms into a stylish loggia, which today serves as an expansive lounge area. A combination of billiards, a bar and comfortable lounge furniture allows residents and guests to enjoy the beautiful weather and views. This semi-open space invites outdoor relaxation both during the day and with evening lighting that highlights the architectural details of the loggia. Other highlights of the villa include the pool house, originally used as a greenhouse. It has been transformed by the designers into a charming place to receive guests or relax after a swim. The building is distinguished by the simplicity of its forms and the use of natural materials such as wood, resin flooring and rough plaster. The bungalow opens onto a 20-meter swimming pool with a teak terrace and a variety of lounging areas - perfect for enjoying the Tuscan landscape.
The former greenhouse has been converted into a pool house
Photo by Iuri Niccolai
Luxury in a Tuscan version
The entire outdoor spaces have been organized with great attention to detail and references to local tradition. Floors made of narrow strips of terracotta and large-format slabs of pietra serena stone not only serve a practical function, but also build a subtle interplay of geometric rhythms and material contrasts. These sophisticated layouts help visually delineate zones - from recreational, to utilitarian, to representative - creating an orderly yet diverse space around the villa. There is also no lack of solutions close to nature.
Relaxation zones have been arranged around the building
Photo: Iuri Niccolai
The property features an extensive garden with aromatic Mediterranean plants, olives and rose bushes, as well as a vegetable garden in elegant corten pots. The thoughtful layout of the garden not only reflects the lifestyle of the owners, but also follows the tradition of Tuscan residences, where greenery is more than decoration - it becomes part of everyday life. The whole is complemented by a small golf course and a pergola for cars, emphasizing the luxurious yet utilitarian character of the entire property.
The cottage opens up to a pool and teak terrace
Photo by Iuri Niccolai
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Elaboration:KATARZYNA SZOSTAK
