“For twenty-five years, we have been proposing an equation that links philosophy, mathematics, science, physics and medicine while respecting both body and mind,” says Carla Baratelli, founding architect of Studio Asia. The firm has an extensive portfolio spanning architecture and interior and product design, with a particular focus on lighting. Studio Asia’s creative philosophy is fully expressed in a private residential project commissioned by a foreign entrepreneur in Milan. “Architecture is well-being,” explains Baratelli. “Every project, whether a home, office, commercial complex or public space, is designed to elicit sensory and emotional experiences. Our vision is guided by the pursuit of perfect harmony between form, colour, material and light. Every element is carefully selected to ensure not only functionality but also a deep connection with the context.”
In this project, the design process balanced every detail, from material textures and lighting intensity to volumetric proportions and spatial flow. A key element of this approach was the seamless integration of interior and exterior spaces, particularly the 290-square-metre terrace, which plays a central role in the overall composition.
Material selection was crucial, with ceramic tiles chosen for both the flooring and staircase. Their aesthetic appeal was further enhanced by a lighting design that highlights every detail and veining. “We selected Italian ceramic tiles not just for their material quality and technological innovation but also to bring a sense of tradition to this modern space,” explains Baratelli. “Due to structural constraints linked to the staircase’s geometry, we had to limit material weight, making thin ceramic slabs the ideal choice. This solution offers the timeless beauty of marble with the benefits of a lightweight, high-performance material.” Cotto d’Este’s Kerlite 6plus large-format slabs proved to be the perfect solution, with their 120×160 cm size and ultra-thin 6.5 mm thickness. They also reflect a strong commitment to sustainability as the manufacturer has fully offset the CO₂ emissions generated over their entire lifecycle. Sustainability is also a major priority for Studio Asia, notes Baratelli: “Sustainable technologies and environmentally conscious design are now fundamental to all our projects. We aim to create buildings that are not only beautiful and functional but also make a positive contribution to the environment and quality of life.”
Specifically, Kerlite Vanity slabs were chosen in the Light White version for the flooring and Dark Brown for the staircase connecting the first and second floors. Outdoors, the Limestone Clay collection in the Blazed finish was used in a 60×120 cm size and 14 mm thickness, a design inspired by the natural beauty of sedimentary seabed rocks, recreated by Cotto d’Este in a refined contemporary version. The Blazed finish, achievable only on certain types of stone, is created by exposing the surface to a high-temperature flame jet followed by rapid cooling with water. The thermal shock causes the stone to expand, producing its distinctive textured surface. Kerlite 6plus slabs are sustainable and carbon-neutral, as Panariagroup has fully offset their CO₂ emissions over their entire lifecycle.
