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The Renaissance gave us the Mona Lisa, the Sistine Chapel and the Statue of David. It gave us Galileo and the telescope, Descartes and modern philosophy, and later, Gutenberg and the printing press. The movement was defined as a “rebirth”, characterized by a renewed interest in classical principles. But as much as it was about rediscovering the past, it was also about building towards the future and pushing the boundaries of human potential.

The Renaissance reasoned that it’s only by revisiting the past that we are able to reinvent the future, yet this delicate balance of history and modernity poses one of architecture’s greatest challenges – how to preserve and embrace the signs of time, yet reimagine it through a modern lens. A dialogue must exist between the old and the new to enable transformation. Old architecture can find new light amidst contemporary elements that pushes the boundaries of the interior without destroying its history and spirit.

Renaissance art was anchored in realism – a desire to capture the raw essence and beauty of the world and humanity as it is, not as it should be. If we were to view architecture through this same lens, old structures transform into cherished artifacts. Imperfections left in the work of a bygone era would be considered virtues. Weathered walls, refined by the patina of age, would be cherished for their wisdom. When these two worlds, the old and the new, come together harmoniously, the resonance of the results can be truly extraordinary.

In the spirit of the Renaissance and in celebration of the past, we challenge you to build upon existing foundations, embrace imperfections rather than conceal them, and rediscover the magic in what has been there all along. Revisit old ideas and overlooked corners in your home with fresh eyes. A world of alchemy exists at the confluence of these two worlds, waiting patiently for you to ignite a Renaissance all of your own.

Hero Image: Vincenzo De Cotiis