Caffè Letterario
The “yard time” courtyard of the former Murate prison, brought back to life and with the addition of a low and long building leaning against the imposing stone wall of the old cells.
FURNITURE PROJECT AND INTERIOR DESIGN
Inside, a lower level area is connected to the new body with many internal openings. This area is divided into four rooms with vaulted ceilings and a long barrel-vaulted corridor with a sloping floor. The challenge was to create a unitary place from this somewhat heterogeneous set of spaces. Today a harmonious atmosphere unites the rooms connected by new openings and a counter overlooking the two different levels.
The furniture is very basic, made with poor materials and often through the reuse of elements from the old prison: peepholes, windows, doors, iron caissons. The long corridor becomes an event room for shows and screenings.
The use of bright and warm colors accompany the entire spatial transformation.
INFORMATIONS
Studio Benaim worked on the internal renovation, interior and furniture design of the Caffè letterario. The intervention was designed by the project team: André Benaim and Fabio Azzato.