A 16th-Century Roman Palazzo Becomes a Modern Family Home
Daniela Bianco and Filippo Cosmelli, founders of FI Experience, live in a side wing of the ancient Palazzo Taverna in Rome. The sprawling 400 square meter apartment, dating back to the 16th century, is a blend of history and modern design, shaped by the couple's unique tastes and the city's influence.
The home's entrance, tucked away on the hill of Monte Giordano, leads to a grand space that retains the original layout of Roman palazzos. Despite its size, the apartment feels welcoming, thanks to the couple's choice of a neutral color palette that lets the architecture shine.
At the heart of the home lies an enchanted courtyard, centered around a majestic 17th-century fountain. This space, along with the living in Rome itself, defines the family's life, despite occasional inconveniences. The apartment's furniture tells a story, with pieces like chrome-and-leather chairs from a Milanese hotel and an 18th-century wardrobe, each with its own history.
The central gray cube houses the kitchen and bathroom, serving as a visual and acoustic buffer, a clever design choice that adds to the home's charm. The bedrooms, located in a later addition to the palazzo, feature ceiling paintings dating to the early 20th century. The couple's art collection includes a lithograph by Enzo Mari and two works by Jannis Kounellis, gifted to them by the artist's son.
The Bianco-Cosmelli family's apartment is a testament to Rome's rich history and the couple's unique vision. Despite its grandeur, the home feels lived-in, a reflection of the family's love for their city and their ability to blend past and present.
