All of the original structural concrete columns were left exposed, as were the cement floors and some areas of terrazzo. The effect is that there is a varied palette of stone and similar elements. "A nice surprise was finding numerals that had been painted on the structural columns and which date from the construction of the building," says Jáuregui. The studio decided to leave them as a nod to the structure's history.
There's nothing particularly declarative about Dalla on Morning Lane in Hackney-and that's the point. The room is spare and considered-cream walls, simple tables, a deliberate calm-never precious. The space is designed by Neapolitan founder Gennaro Leone in collaboration with his friend, Sicilian designer Oscar Piccolo. Prior to Dalla, Gennaro founded Spazio Leone, the east London store known for sourcing contemporary objects, art, and furniture. So when it came to design
"What we had intended to really just be almost like a home office where we wouldn't even have customers, we now have the space for it. So we decided to turn Build-a-Chair into this Build-a-Home concept," Carraway explained. "You could truly walk and be like, 'you know what? I wanna build a side table,' and then either pick from our suite of things to start with and customize it, or you can come to us with a totally custom idea."
A sofa is a major investment, so it makes sense that you might be more inclined to shop for a more neutral, versatile model that's "safer" in design. But where's the fun in that? A statement sofa with interesting design details and bold upholstery can make any space feel fresher - and just because it's eye-catching doesn't mean it won't complement other furniture and decor.