Global architecture and design firm Rockwell Group, has created a theatrical and richly layered dining room for the fourth edition of Artemest’s L’Appartamento during Milan Design Week…
Housed in the historic Palazzo Donizetti on Via Gaetano Donizetti 48, the installation forms part of Artemest’s annual exhibition celebrating Italian craftsmanship and design. This year’s edition introduces a new curatorial chapter dedicated to Italian grandeur, paying tribute to the enduring magnetism of Italy’s artistic legacy, architectural language and exceptional craftsmanship.
Set within the palazzo’s oval dining room, the scheme preserves the space’s historic architecture, including its boiserie, frescoed ceiling, carved marble fireplace and generous proportions. David Rockwell approached the room as a contemporary reimagining of Naples, drawing on the city’s dynamic character, at once raw and refined, sacred and playful.
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- Image credit: Manfredi Gioacchini Courtesy of Artemest
Titled Bacchanalia: A Ritual in Pleasure, the design is inspired by the triclinium, an ancient Roman dining arrangement uncovered in Pompeii. Traditionally composed of three couches arranged in a U-shape around low tables, the triclinium blurred the boundaries between architecture, ritual and leisure as guests reclined to dine.
Image credit: Manfredi Gioacchini Courtesy of Artemest
Rockwell Group translates this concept into a relaxed, lounge-style dining environment. Sculptural seating, daybeds, poufs and layered tables invite visitors to sit back, linger and engage with the space. As guests enter the dining room, the setting suggests the moment after a feast has taken place, a scene where traces of indulgence remain and the atmosphere of gathering is still present.
Throughout the room, objects blur the line between art and function. Plates are mounted on the walls as artworks, while framed pieces become trays for food and towers of drinkware. Sculptural vessels and tableware shift between utility and ornament, creating a setting that feels informal and lived-in. Subtle references to the feast appear throughout the design, from arranged table settings left deliberately askew to a carpet that suggests wine spilled long ago.
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- Image credit: Manfredi Gioacchini Courtesy of Artemest
Naples’ volcanic spirit also informs the palette and materials. Inspired by the treasures of the Tesoro di San Gennaro and the dramatic contrasts of Caravaggio, the room features gold-toned metals, warm marbles, deep mineral hues and oceanic blues. White marble elements are set against darker surfaces to heighten contrasts of light and shadow, while drapery frames views like theatrical curtains.
Lighting plays a key role in shaping the atmosphere. Inverted chandeliers appear as if they have fallen from the ceiling, while uplights and concealed sources recall the glow of ancient oil lamps, creating a warm and atmospheric setting. The result is a dining room that sits between realism and theatricality, a space where dining, art and performance converge.
Main image credit: Manfredi Gioacchini Courtesy of Artemest
