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Marcello D’Olivo, the influential Friulian architect, was renowned for his commitment to organic forms and harmony with the natural landscape. One of his most notable projects, Villa Spezzotti Gregoratti, exemplifies this dedication. Originally commissioned by entrepreneur Giovanni Battista Spezzotti in 1955 as a gift for his wife, Lydia Maria Rizzi, this villa stands as an example of D’Olivo’s artistic vision. Billiani, a company with over a century of history, has integrated its sophisticated furniture collection into the villa, creating a narrative that explores local connections and highlights the villa’s architectural significance.
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Billiani, renowned for its carefully crafted furniture, has created a new narrative by placing its products in the context of some of the most interesting examples of local contemporary architecture. This initiative centers around the Edizioni collection, which includes pieces like the Veretta Lounge Chair, Raquette Sofa, and Vincent v. G. Chair. These pieces have been carefully integrated into Villa Spezzotti Gregoratti, a setting that perfectly complements the company’s design ethos. The villa, designed in 1955 and completed in 1957, showcases the architect’s signature use of curved lines, from the perimeter walls to the decorative inserts, creating a seamless dialogue with Billiani’s furniture.
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The villa’s architecture is dominated by intersecting circles and continuous curves, creating a fluid, organic aesthetic. This design is evident from the perimeter walls of reinforced concrete to the decorative elements, such as Luciano Ceschia’s sculpture replacing windows in the master bathroom and the ceramic sunflower at the entrance. Inside, the circular motif is consistently reiterated. The living area features a circular fireplace, and the hallway leading to the bedrooms follows a curved line. Built-in wardrobes, acting as partitions, combine various woods and are adorned with fabric depicting zodiac signs and galleons, integrating furniture with the architectural design. Billiani’s Edizioni collection enhances this architectural harmony, with pieces like the Frisée Tables, Corolla Armchair, and Edelweiss Chair by Philippe Bestenheider, offering both historical charm and a contemporary touch.
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The maritime theme is prominent throughout the villa, especially in the bedrooms, which resemble the interior of a ship. Curving wall units serve as recessed wardrobes on one side and alcoves on the other, further emphasizing the nautical inspiration. This influence extends to the kitchen, where modular compartments evoke Le Corbusier’s casiers standard, reflecting D’Olivo’s admiration for the modernist master. The basement level, designed to remain cool, houses a galley that once hosted dinners for artists and intellectuals, underscoring the villa’s role as a cultural hub.
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Villa Spezzotti Gregoratti remains a prime example of D’Olivo’s architectural legacy, where every detail reflects his dedication to curved lines and respect for nature. This project, now part of Billiani’s Edizioni collection, continues to inspire. The integration of Billiani’s sophisticated furniture pieces within the villa, including the sleek Fleuron by Constance Guisset and the woven detailing of Harry’s outdoor collection by Luigi Billiani, highlights the harmony between D’Olivo’s architectural vision and Billiani’s design innovation, creating spaces that are both functional and connected to their environment.
wow this is looking gorgeous! beautiful work