Once a site for the trade and storage of rolls of silk, Palazzo Cortile della Seta, in via della Moscova 33 in Milan, now hosts the new headquarters of Loro Piana.

With this intervention, we transformed the philosophy and heritage of the maison into a tangible space, harmoniously blending elegance, functionality and sustainability. The space is immediately notable with its four arches hosting the main entrance to the HQ and the full-height display windows with access to the boutique. The play on materials and decorations, and the neutral tones confirm the simple, innate elegance that has always distinguished Loro Piana.

We drew inspiration from the typical Milanese palazzos characterized by an ethereal sophistication and by pastel tones and desaturated hues. Another aspect of such palaces that we wanted to highlight was the expansive entrances and green courtyards that allow textured views of the interiors guiding the eye to spot lantern-like chandeliers and other décor elements.

We also looked back at Palladio’s architectural balance and harmonious proportions which result in a compositional serenity and equilibrium of volumes and spaces.

Everything contributes to a sophisticated and timeless atmosphere: textiles, furniture and accessories, chandeliers and decorative wall panels flaunting the maison’s prized fabrics plunge visitors into a unique visual and sensorial experience.

The design of all the bespoke elements - the paravents, the desks, the chairs - starts from the interaction with the building, a white box to which we added different layers. The paravents that define the paths and create private areas for the various departments are floating elements covered with the most representative colors of the fabrics by Loro Piana Interiors. The desks and chairs are designed to highlight the space, thin and light elements in materials and colors that are part of the DNA of the brand - natural oak, bone colored metal, kummel fabrics.

LEED Gold-certified, Palazzo Cortile della Seta also has reduced environmental impact. The structure utilizes certified renewable energy, solar panels, energy-saving LED lighting and a geothermal pump-based HVAC system. A smart system monitors the building in real time, and the flooring is made entirely of recycled fishing nets, an intriguing detail the evokes Loro Piana’s ties to the world of sailing.

More info here: Loropiana.com

Photos by Alessandro Saletta, Melania Dalle Grave - DSL Studio

Publications:

Monocle, December 2022