A Milanese Studio: A Kaleidoscope of Creativity and Color

Mar 19, 2025 at 8:39 PM

In the vibrant city of Milan, Bea Bongiasca's studio stands as a testament to her artistic vision and colorful personality. Since launching her eponymous jewelry brand in 2014, this Italian designer has crafted whimsical collections that blend playful shapes with bold hues. Her work, ranging from enamel rings resembling jewel-encrusted vines to silver earrings inspired by regional snacks, reflects an irreverent approach to design. This aesthetic extends seamlessly into her 800-square-foot apartment, which mirrors her creations through its vivid palette of acid green and hot pink. Nestled near Sempione Park, this compact two-story loft is not just a living space but also a creative sanctuary designed like a "jewelry box." Born and raised in Milan, with a brief stint in London for her studies, Bongiasca’s life and art are deeply rooted in her surroundings.

Bongiasca resides in a building conceived in 1965 by architect Giulio Minoletti, renowned for his industrial and public projects. Originally intended for Alitalia pilots, the structure features four floors of uniform studio apartments, drawing inspiration from Le Corbusier's modernist designs in Marseille. Known locally as a "house hotel," it embodies mid-century bachelor pad charm. Inside, Bongiasca’s home pays homage to the era with a striking conversation pit adorned with modular dark red cubes beneath a chartreuse ceiling. Designed by Massimiliano Locatelli, a family friend, the interior harmonizes functionality with flair, echoing the candy-pink tones of her childhood bedroom and boutique.

On a crisp winter day, Bongiasca descends her Barbie pink staircase, clad in voluminous floral-print cargo pants and a crop top, trailed by her feline companion, Fat Momo. Her balcony overlooks the rear garden, offering a serene view amidst urban life. The apartment, filled with personal touches, serves as both a canvas and refuge for her creative endeavors.

Through her designs and living space, Bongiasca exemplifies how creativity can permeate every aspect of life. Her journey from studying in London to establishing her brand in Milan showcases a seamless integration of art and environment. By blending historical architecture with contemporary aesthetics, she crafts a world where whimsy thrives. This unique synthesis of color, form, and function underscores her distinctive approach to jewelry design and lifestyle.