House with Steel Furniture is a minimal home located in Rome, Italy, designed by SET Architects. The renovation was commissioned by a young couple, who envisioned a home that balanced flexibility with an inviting luminosity, despite the confined space and restricted budget. Initially, the layout of the apartment adhered to a more traditional scheme with a hallway and distinct rooms, a design which inadvertently restricted the flow of natural light emanating from the series of five expansive windows that mark the building’s facade. The architects embarked on a thoughtful redesign strategy that focused on modifying the central portion of the apartment.

They dissolved the barriers separating the two main rooms and removed the corridor, fostering a unified space that seamlessly integrates the dining, living, and kitchen areas. In addition, adjustments were made to the partition wall in the furthest room, developing a functional segment that accommodates a refrigerator, washing machine, and built-in wardrobe. This transformation not only enhances the fluidity of the space but also establishes this segment as a significant element within the apartment, courtesy of the removal of doors that previously confined the space. A notable feature of this refurbished apartment is the muted palette employed throughout, establishing a harmonious balance of textures and materials.

The flooring is crafted from pale grey concrete, offering a continuous and understated backdrop. In contrast, the walls are adorned with a smooth coat of white paint, complemented by a ceiling finished with rough cement-based plaster, also in white, introducing a hint of texture and depth to the overall aesthetic. Complementing this muted background are bespoke metal furnishings, conceived to be both sleek and functional, aligning with the project’s minimalist ethos while being budget-friendly. Furthermore, the kitchen manifests as a standalone entity, its stainless steel composition reflecting a blend of refinement and simplicity, commanding attention in the combined living space.