light and shadow shape Ekadea Ceramic Workshop in Milan
Ekadea Studio is a ceramic workshop designed by AACM – Atelier Architettura Chinello Morandi in Milan, Italy. Conceived as an enveloping space, its form emerges from shadow and accompanies visitors as they cross the threshold. Curved walls rise from the base and define functions, paths, and boundaries. A wooden structure, perforated to frame glimpses or solid to accommodate residual spaces, establishes a rhythm of thresholds and shelter. Light spreads in a filtered, soft, delicate way, generating fields of shadow that enhance the artisanal gesture and the materiality of the surfaces. The vaulted ceiling softens the contrasts of the penumbra, tracing veils of chiaroscuro that highlight the texture of the wood, the sinuosity of the form, and the irregularity of the material. Shadow is not the absence of light, but a discreet presence: it envelops, protects, and returns intimacy to the space.
all images by Marco Lumini – Catalogo Studio, courtesy of AACM – Atelier Architettura Chinello Morandi
AACM’s Ekadea studio balances between shelter and openness
From Milan’s frenetic pace, the step slows already at the entrance: a stone acts as a step and guides the descent into the central space, marking the passage between the outside and the sheltered interior. At the center, the okumè plywood worktable becomes the focal point and measure of the space, while a shōji conceals the presence of other gestures: the tea ceremony and the work at the potter’s wheel appear in glimpses without losing their intimacy, upon a base clad in rice-straw tatami that defines their ritual threshold. The curved walls and openings guide the gaze from one moment to the next, ensuring visual continuity while also maintaining privacy. Niches carved into the walls hold tools, containers, and small objects, contributing to the functional order of the studio. The project by creative practice AACM – Atelier Architettura Chinello Morandi stems from the desire to offer a refuge from the accelerated rhythm of the city and seeks a balance between shelter and openness, between tradition and contemporaneity: a measured space where time stretches out. In the penumbra, every detail and every form gain prominence in their apparent simplicity.
Ekadea Studio is a ceramic workshop designed by AACM – Atelier Architettura Chinello Morandi in Milan
the interior is conceived as an enveloping space shaped by shadow and filtered light
curved walls rise from the floor to organize functions and circulation
a wooden structure alternates between perforated and solid surfaces
the sinuous partitions guide movement through the workshop
filtered light creates soft gradients of shadow throughout the space
openings in the wood frame partial views across the interior
the interior balances moments of openness with areas of privacy
a shōji screen partially conceals the tea ceremony and pottery areas
the vaulted ceiling diffuses light and softens contrasts within the room
the irregular material finishes highlight the handcrafted atmosphere of the studio
a stone step at the entrance marks the transition from street to interior
curved openings maintain visual continuity between different functions
project info:
name: Ekadea Studio
architect: AACM – Atelier Architettura Chinello Morandi | @aacm_studio
location: Milan, Italy
area: 50 sqm
client: Ekadea Studio
lead architects: Arch. Nicolò Chinello and Arch. Ing. Rodolfo Morandi
partner in charge: Arch. Nicolò Chinello
design team: Arch. Ing. Rodolfo Morandi, Arch. Francesco Deiro, Mattia Pordenon
wooden works: Bottega dell’arte Snc
flooring: GoBuild
plaster and false ceiling: Effeerre
wall finish and textile: Paint up
tatami and pillows: Teacood
drawings: AACM
photographer: Marco Lumini – Catalogo Studio | @catalogo.studio
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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom
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