Meow Meow

In the charming Italian town of Albino, nestled in the Siriana Valley at the slopes of the Aerobic Mountains, an astonishing transformation has taken place. What was once an unassuming open porch, serving merely as a storage area for bicycles, has been reimagined by Italian architect Francesca Perrani into a vibrant, multi-purpose micro-home. This isn’t just any small space conversion; it’s a testament to the power of custom design, cultural inspiration, and a bold departure from minimalist norms.

A Tiny Footprint, A World of Purpose

Measuring a mere 25 square meters (270 sq ft) and exceptionally narrow at just 2.5 meters wide by 10 meters long, this former porch presented an extreme design challenge. Yet, Perrani, also a graphic designer and activist, embraced the constraints, transforming the space into a flexible haven for its Persian-Italian owners. Conceived as a studio, a tranquil retreat, or a welcoming guest house for relatives, the cabin exemplifies multi-usage and adaptability. It stands between two significant modern villas – one built in the 1950s by Elia Achille and another from 1968 by Armen Manoukian – creating a dialogue with the property’s main access and a monumental staircase.

Uniquely Persian, Refreshingly Anti-Minimalist

Forget the endless white walls and straight lines often associated with small-space living. Perrani’s approach directly challenges these minimalist trends, instead celebrating color, texture, and a dynamic way of life. The cabin draws deep inspiration from Persian design, most notably with the striking use of Persian indigo blue. This rich hue, reminiscent of mosque tiles, defines the entrance and the vibrant shower room, creating a dramatic contrast to the living area. Even a playful metal screen at the front of the building, which also forms a triangular mini-garden and provides sun shading, references ancient Persian arches.

Ingenious Solutions for Compact Living

Every inch of this micro-home has been meticulously planned and customized to maximize functionality and comfort. The cabin is primarily divided into two main areas: a versatile living room that seamlessly acts as a kitchen and a bedroom, and a brilliant blue bathroom. Storage, a crucial element in any small dwelling, was a key client request, and Perrani delivered with incredible ingenuity.

The living space, clad entirely in non-toxic OSB, exudes a warm, inviting feel. A 7-meter-long bench is the star of this area, ingeniously designed to serve as a sitting area, a sleeping space, and provide ample storage underneath. In the evenings, it effortlessly converts into two single beds, with mattresses conveniently stored below.

Custom-built solutions abound:

Integrated Storage: A floor-to-ceiling wardrobe cleverly conceals a heating system, a desk, a space for a washing machine, and abundant storage.
Flexible Entry: The entrance is separated from the living room by a perforated metal screen, which doubles as a coat hanger.
Clever Seating: Window frames are angled to facilitate conversation and function as comfortable bench seats, with a blue edge that ties into the bathroom’s color scheme.
Compact Kitchenette: Despite its size, the kitchenette perfectly accommodates a sink, an electric stove area, and a microwave. A strategic cut into the wall brings in additional light. Recycled 1960s handles, sourced locally, add a touch of retro charm to both the kitchen and wardrobe.
A Connection to Nature and Sustainable Touches

Beyond the interior marvels, the cabin embraces its surroundings. Sustainable solutions were prioritized, including a greenery system on the rooftop that not only looks appealing but also reduces solar heat gain and offers thermal benefits. The bathroom itself offers a delightful connection to the outdoors; the shower opens to the garden through a French door, providing ventilation and a refreshing link to nature while a perforated metal screen ensures privacy. The existing stone wall within the shower adds texture and character, complementing the glossy blue resin finish and bright white fittings.

Francesca Perrani’s creation in Albino is more than just a home; it’s a vibrant blueprint for how unutilized urban spaces can be transformed into dynamic, culturally rich, and highly functional living environments. It proves that with thoughtful design and a daring spirit, even the smallest of spaces can offer enormous potential for living beautifully.