The appeal of handmade products

“We are proud to be one of the smallest, most flexible and passionate architectural firms. We give form to ideas and create special, tangible, sustainable and ergonomic spaces. We help private clients discover their identity through our projects and transform them into homes. In the case of companies, we engage with the owners and guide them in creating spaces that best suit their needs, highlighting the unique qualities of their products or services,” says Marco Barbariol – architect, urban regeneration advocate, social and cultural innovation project developer, lecturer and founder of Studio A29, which has been operating under his name since 2017. “I enjoy overseeing all phases of projects, working in collaboration with clients to transform their desires into physical spaces. Our multidisciplinary approach is often transversal in activating and mobilising the resources needed to bring the project to life,” he explains, summarising his approach to architecture and design.

The new Magna bistro occupies one of the many boat storage rooms typically found on the ground floors of nineteenth-century buildings in the historic centre of Trieste. The space, with its lofty vaulted ceilings, stone structure and supporting arches for the upper floors with wooden beams, offered great potential. The renovation began by stripping away all additions to reveal the original brick walls, decorative arches of doors that no longer exist, and the supporting structures. This meticulous work revived surfaces rich with history, authentic in their imperfections. Being a bistro, Magna offers fast food with high-quality service and a limited menu, accommodating about 25 to 35 guests per meal.

“After deciding to invest in the renovation, including plumbing, electrics, and the open kitchen framed by the white curve of the arch, we focused on creating a striking ambience that would leave a lasting impression on customers,” explains the architect. “Alongside monochromatic elements for the more functional but less prominent areas – such as the counters and the wall panelling used to accommodate the ambient lighting and utilities – we chose a light, bright colour for the floor. Specifically, we opted for porcelain stoneware, a material that guarantees eco-compatibility, durability, ease of maintenance and hygiene. For the decoration, we selected a large, handmade-style black and white design from the Riggiole line by Fioranese, which pays homage to the 15th-century majolica tiles of Sorrento and Amalfi, renowned for their distinctive patterns. Produced in a 90×90 cm size to reduce cut-offs, but also available in smaller sizes, the floor tiles played an important role.” Blending history with technological evolution, the Riggiole line harmonises perfectly with the surrounding walls, creating an atmosphere that is both unique and relaxed and stands in refreshing contrast to the fast-paced rhythm of modern life.