A century of Italian craftsmanship comes to London

You cannot beat the quality of finish of artisan joinery and Italian craftsmanship from Falegnameria Bariza is simply stunning. In my last blog post, I explored the Nordic concept of ‘hygge in the home’ in which craftsmanship and using natural materials is a key element in interior design. Although the word may be different, the ideals behind it are similar in other regions too and not least in the Alps. Based in the heart of the Italian Alps Cortina d’Ampezzo, Bariza are a family business with almost a century of expertise in woodwork. They’ve designed some of the most beautiful luxury houses and chalets in exclusive European villages and they’re now available in London too.

Thinking that plenty of exposed wood in your home is really old-fashioned or suited just to chalets? Well let these photos change your mind… I particularly love the contrast between concrete and wood. The more rustic the wood, where you can see imperfections and sheer naturalness of it, the better! Concrete alone can be cold and harsh, but natural solid wood can make the space feel homely and the combination is super architectural. I have serious bathroom envy…

Talented craftsmen have the knack of transformation. Making space where none existed and making things disappear when not needed! You can have the most talented architect or interior designer, but having a wood-working magician is worth their weight in gold. Just look at how seamless this wood-panelled bedroom with built-in storage is. The wood panels extend across the window to hide the curtain track which can play havoc with clean lines. The radiator cover with side air-vents give this small bedroom some additional shelving space.

I’ve wanted something similar to this in our small kitchen for ages. This beautiful wooden panelled kitchen with stainless steel splashbacks can be hidden away by bi-folding doors leaving a tidy space for entertaining. The folding doors tuck into hidden compartments when not in use – so beautifully designed!

And just take a look at these beautiful custom made bunkbeds – talk about using all possible space! A shelf and plug socket at the head of the beds allow for a reading light and phone charger as well as a space to put a glass of water. This kind of design isn’t limited to just ski chalets, but any small child’s bedroom. I know my son would love it!

Don’t forget to check out Falegnameria Bariza and see more of their Italian craftsmanship for inspiration. Luckily for me, my brother-in-law is a talented carpenter and will trade work for one of my Sunday roast dinners ; )

Natalia xo

*This post has been sponsored by Bariza, but all words and opinions are my own as ever ; )