Farre+Stevenson Architecture develops interior architecture and design projects for residential, commercial, hospitality, cultural and professional spaces. The studio approaches interiors as an integral part of architecture, coordinating spatial organisation, existing structures, building services, materials, light, furnishings and the practical requirements of everyday use.
Interior design is not understood as the simple selection of furniture, colours or decorative finishes. It is a process of analysing and transforming the internal space of a building, addressing circulation, proportions, light, construction, comfort, functionality and the relationship between existing and new elements.
Projects may concern the complete renovation of a property, the reorganisation of individual rooms, the adaptive reuse of an existing building or the detailed development of a new interior within a broader architectural commission.
Interior architecture as the transformation of space
The quality of an interior depends first of all on the organisation of space. Before materials and furnishings are selected, the project considers how rooms are connected, how people move through them, how natural light enters and how the proposed layout responds to the client’s needs.
The design may address:
- spatial organisation and functional relationships;
- circulation and sequences between rooms;
- proportions, heights and visual connections;
- the relationship between public and private areas;
- natural light and orientation;
- storage and service spaces;
- accessibility and ease of use;
- the integration of structure, services and architectural elements;
- future flexibility and changes in use.
Understanding the existing property
When a project concerns an existing building, the first stage is to understand its physical, technical and regulatory condition.
The preliminary investigation may include:
- architectural survey and photographic documentation;
- analysis of the existing layout and construction;
- review of available planning and building documents;
- identification of structural walls, shafts and service zones;
- assessment of natural light and ventilation;
- evaluation of existing materials and elements worth retaining;
- identification of technical or administrative constraints;
- comparison between existing conditions and approved documentation.
This analysis provides the basis for a design that is spatially coherent, technically feasible and compatible with the actual condition of the property.
Space planning and functional layouts
Space planning translates the client’s requirements into a clear and efficient internal organisation.
The work may include:
- reorganisation of residential layouts;
- creation of open or more articulated living spaces;
- design of kitchens, bathrooms and service areas;
- integration of home-working spaces;
- organisation of retail, hospitality and workplace functions;
- definition of customer, staff and service circulation;
- storage planning;
- adaptation of spaces to accessibility requirements;
- comparison between alternative layouts.
Each proposal is evaluated in relation to dimensions, lighting, privacy, technical feasibility, construction cost and the way in which the spaces will actually be used.
Renovation and adaptive reuse
Interior projects often involve the transformation of existing properties whose spaces no longer respond to current needs.
The design may include:
- renovation of apartments and houses;
- conversion of commercial and professional premises;
- adaptive reuse of historic or existing buildings;
- reorganisation of hospitality spaces;
- renewal of offices and workplaces;
- transformation of cultural and collective interiors;
- integration of contemporary uses within buildings of architectural interest.
The objective is not necessarily to erase the existing character of a property. Where appropriate, the project preserves and enhances significant materials, proportions, details and traces of previous construction, integrating them with new requirements and contemporary interventions.
Residential interior design
Residential projects are developed around the client’s habits, priorities and long-term requirements rather than around a predetermined style.
The project may concern:
- apartments and houses;
- primary residences and second homes;
- complete renovations;
- partial refurbishment of selected areas;
- kitchens, bathrooms and living spaces;
- bedrooms, studies and home offices;
- custom storage and built-in furniture;
- connections between interiors, terraces and gardens.
The design seeks a balance between spatial quality, comfort, durability, maintenance, budget and the personal character of the home.
Commercial, retail and hospitality interiors
Commercial and hospitality interiors must combine architectural identity with operational efficiency, regulatory requirements and the experience of customers and users.
Projects may include:
- shops and boutiques;
- restaurants, cafés and food-service premises;
- showrooms;
- hotels and hospitality spaces;
- offices and professional studios;
- reception and customer-service areas;
- exhibition and presentation spaces;
- shared and collective interiors.
The organisation of public areas, staff areas, storage, services, accessibility and technical systems is coordinated with the overall architectural concept.
Interior design for cultural and collective spaces
Farre+Stevenson also develops interiors for buildings and spaces intended for culture, education and collective use.
The activity may concern:
- museums and exhibition spaces;
- libraries and learning environments;
- cultural centres;
- community spaces;
- temporary or permanent installations;
- visitor routes and interpretive spaces;
- interiors associated with the enhancement of historic buildings.
These projects require particular attention to circulation, accessibility, lighting, durability, public use and the relationship between content, architecture and display.
Materials, finishes and colour
Materials are selected in relation to architectural character, performance, durability, maintenance and the way they interact with light.
The project may coordinate:
- flooring and wall finishes;
- natural stone, wood, metal and composite materials;
- plaster, paint and decorative surfaces;
- doors, windows and internal partitions;
- acoustic and technical finishes;
- textiles and soft furnishings;
- colour palettes;
- existing materials to be restored or retained.
Material selection is not based solely on appearance. Technical characteristics, availability, cost, maintenance and compatibility with the building are also considered.
Samples and physical mock-ups may be required before final approval, since colours and surfaces cannot be assessed reliably through digital images alone.
Custom furniture and built-in elements
Where standard products do not respond adequately to the space or the client’s requirements, the project may include the design of bespoke architectural elements and furniture.
These may include:
- built-in storage;
- wardrobes and shelving systems;
- kitchens and bathroom furniture;
- reception desks and service counters;
- display systems;
- fixed seating;
- screens and room dividers;
- integrated lighting elements;
- custom doors, panels and wall systems.
Detailed drawings and coordination with fabricators are developed according to the scope of the commission and the level of customisation required.
Natural light and daylighting
Natural light is a fundamental component of interior architecture. It affects spatial perception, comfort, energy use, materials and the daily experience of the building.
The design may consider:
- orientation and solar exposure;
- size and position of openings;
- distribution of daylight within the rooms;
- relationships between adjoining spaces;
- reflection from walls, ceilings and floors;
- glare and excessive solar gain;
- screens, curtains and shading devices;
- the effect of daylight on colours and materials.
Qualitative simulations and three-dimensional studies may be used to compare alternatives. Where formal calculations are required, the work is coordinated with the relevant specialist.
Artificial lighting design
Artificial lighting is developed in relation to the architecture and to the activities that take place within each space.
The design may address:
- general lighting;
- task lighting;
- accent and display lighting;
- indirect and integrated lighting;
- decorative fixtures;
- lighting of materials and architectural details;
- control systems and lighting scenarios;
- coordination with electrical installations.
The purpose is to create appropriate visual conditions while maintaining coherence between technical performance, atmosphere and architectural character.
Specialist photometric calculations are undertaken by or coordinated with qualified lighting professionals where required.
Building services and technical coordination
Interior architecture must be coordinated with the systems that make the building functional and comfortable.
The project may therefore include coordination with:
- electrical and lighting systems;
- heating, cooling and ventilation;
- plumbing and sanitary installations;
- data and communication systems;
- fire-safety requirements;
- acoustic performance;
- security and access-control systems;
- home-automation systems.
Technical equipment, access panels, grilles, switches and service routes are considered as part of the design rather than added after the architectural decisions have already been made.
Accessibility and inclusive design
Interior spaces should be understandable, usable and safe for the people who occupy them.
Depending on the project, the design may consider:
- clear circulation routes;
- door widths and turning spaces;
- changes of level;
- accessible bathrooms;
- reach and use of controls;
- visual contrast and orientation;
- lighting quality;
- selection of safe and appropriate materials.
The applicable requirements depend on the building, its use and the local regulatory framework.
Acoustics and environmental comfort
Acoustic quality is particularly important in residential, commercial, hospitality, workplace and collective interiors.
The design may consider:
- separation between noisy and quiet areas;
- sound transmission between rooms;
- reverberation within large or hard-surfaced spaces;
- acoustic ceilings and wall finishes;
- soft furnishings and absorptive materials;
- equipment noise;
- coordination with specialist acoustic consultants.
Thermal comfort, ventilation, daylight, acoustics and lighting are considered together as components of the overall quality of the interior environment.
3D modelling and visualisation
Three-dimensional models and renderings can help clients understand spatial relationships, materials, furniture and lighting before construction begins.
Visualisation may be used to:
- compare alternative layouts;
- study proportions and viewpoints;
- evaluate materials and colour combinations;
- simulate natural and artificial lighting;
- coordinate bespoke elements;
- communicate the project to clients, contractors and suppliers;
- support decisions during remote meetings.
Digital visualisations are design and communication tools. They do not replace samples, detailed drawings or technical verification of the selected products.
BIM and information modelling
Where appropriate, BIM methodologies may be used to coordinate architectural elements, building services, quantities and project information.
For existing and historic buildings, HBIM can connect measured survey data, archival information, existing construction and proposed interventions.
Information modelling may support:
- coordination between drawings and models;
- management of existing, demolished and proposed elements;
- integration with structural and service information;
- production of schedules and quantities;
- clash detection;
- progressive updating of the design.
From concept to construction documentation
The service may cover the entire development of the interior project or selected stages, depending on the commission.
Activities may include:
- initial consultation and definition of requirements;
- survey and analysis of existing conditions;
- concept design and alternative layouts;
- developed design;
- material and finish selection;
- lighting and furniture coordination;
- detailed and construction drawings;
- schedules and specifications;
- cost estimates and tender documentation;
- coordination with contractors and suppliers;
- site supervision and construction support.
Drawings and project information
Depending on the scope, the interior design documentation may include:
- existing, demolition and proposed plans;
- reflected ceiling plans;
- flooring and finish layouts;
- internal elevations;
- sections and construction details;
- door, joinery and furniture schedules;
- lighting layouts;
- material and colour schedules;
- three-dimensional models and renderings;
- specifications and documents for pricing.
The level of detail is defined in relation to the complexity of the project, procurement method and responsibilities assigned to the studio.
Cost control and contractor selection
Design decisions are developed in relation to the client’s available budget and priorities.
The studio may assist through:
- preliminary cost evaluation;
- comparison of alternative materials and solutions;
- preparation of quantities and specifications;
- collection and comparison of contractor quotations;
- clarification of inclusions and exclusions;
- assessment of proposed substitutions;
- review of variations during construction.
A realistic budget should include construction, professional services, specialist consultants, statutory fees, furnishings, equipment, taxes and an appropriate allowance for unforeseen conditions.
Construction administration and site supervision
During the works, Farre+Stevenson can provide architectural supervision and technical assistance according to the agreed appointment.
The work may include:
- reviewing progress and workmanship;
- checking consistency with the approved project;
- responding to technical questions;
- reviewing materials and samples;
- coordinating details with contractors and fabricators;
- assessing proposed changes;
- reviewing measurements and progress documentation;
- assisting the client through completion and handover.
The contractor remains responsible for construction methods, site organisation, safety and execution of the works.
Interior architecture in Rome and Italy
Projects in Rome frequently involve existing buildings, historic properties, twentieth-century apartments, protected areas and complex layers of previous alterations.
The studio integrates interior design with the verification of planning history, legitimate building status, constraints and required approvals. This helps ensure that the proposed transformation is not only visually and functionally appropriate but also technically and administratively feasible.
For projects elsewhere in Italy, the work is adapted to the local building regulations, construction practices and characteristics of the property.
Projects for international clients
Farre+Stevenson works with Italian and international clients and provides professional services in both Italian and English.
For owners living abroad, the studio can coordinate:
- surveys and preliminary investigations;
- design development;
- planning and building approvals;
- selection of contractors and suppliers;
- remote presentations and design reviews;
- site monitoring and reporting;
- coordination through completion.
This provides the client with a local professional reference throughout the design and construction process.
Working with the studio
The initial consultation is used to understand the client’s requirements, the nature of the property, the available documentation, the intended budget and the level of service required.
On this basis, the following are defined:
- the scope of the project;
- the spaces and functions involved;
- the need for surveys and technical investigations;
- the design and approval stages;
- the specialist consultants required;
- the drawings and deliverables to be produced;
- the programme and professional responsibilities.
Farre+Stevenson Architecture develops interior architecture and design projects in Rome, throughout Italy and internationally, combining spatial planning, materials, light, technical coordination and construction detail within coherent and buildable solutions.
Meetings at the Rome office are available by appointment only.