At home with Idarica Gazzoni, decorative painter, textile and wallpaper designer

Some apartments are elegant, some are traditional, some modern, some just impeccably renovated but few have the personality and the soul of Idarica Gazzoni’s home. As an interior designer myself, I have always thought that the most striking apartments are the ones that speak of their owner and are the reflection of their inner being. This could not be more true of Idarica’s. Her talent, training, exquisite taste and love for travel is totally reflected in this wonderful apartment that feels like a magical wonderland and a jewel all on its own.

Trained in Belgium as a decorative painter, Idarica Gazzoni is passionate of far-away lands notably India and the Ottoman Empire. Her muse, Arjumand – which gives the name to her famed store- , was a noble Princess with Persian origins, Moghol of adoption. The Taj Mahal, build in her memory is its testimony.

Idarica’s oriental dreams and inspirations are translated everywhere in her home. No surface is spared, walls, ceilings, objects , furniture , textiles, cushions, lampshades, everything is imbued with her talent and her travels – real or imaginary.

Her living room walls are frescoes painted by Idarica herself depicting trompe l’oeuil tents transporting you into a exotic and nostalgic lands.

Sofas, lounge chairs, antique daybeds, chairs and banquettes all upholstered with her own creations or vintage textiles exuberate warmth and comfort, and add to the magical feeling. Vintage Suzanis, antique rugs, ethnic fabrics, oriental and ottoman porcelain, objects globally sourced and patterned lampshades, add another rich layer to complete that look that just leaves you breathless. The view from the living room: an outdoor terrace, or more likely an oasis of orange trees, jasmine, and other plants and flowers completed with a small pool.

Who would know you are in an apartment in Milan?

The dining room walls are also hand-painted by Idarica Gazzoni and are covered by a collection of floral plates that seem to be part of the wall itself. All this lit by a special pendant formed by a combination of a vintage lantern and contemporary paper creation.

The bedroom is again a layering of different patterns from the painted walls to the Suzanis on, and over the bed. As for the rest of the house, the mix is done in perfect harmony and balance. This is Maximalism done right!

Idarica Gazzoni’s home is like an artist’s atelier. The canvas being the original floors, doors and most of the floorplan typical of such 18^th century houses. The rest is her creative freedom, her talent as an artist, her experimentation, passion, warmth and joie de vivre.

Thankfully, Idarica translated some of her murals and patterns into her own collection of wall papers and textiles. She wanted to be able to share them and make them available for everyone. They can be found in her store in Via Santa Marta, 11. A true treasure trove, definitely worth a visit!