Contemporary living

Then it comes to all things trendy and cutting-edge in Italy, it’s Milan rather than Rome that springs to mind. That is especially true in April, when the Salone Internazionale del Mobile (Milan’s Design Week) opens its doors to its international audience. Often accused of living in the past, Rome nevertheless holds its own on the contemporary design stage. The Eternal City is home to a number of refined boutiques where modern taste meets Italian craftsmanship, offering a rich selection of furniture, accessories, and distinctive objects. For those looking to bring character and originality into their homes, these are some of the best places to discover inspired interior design in the capital.

Arcon stands out as one of Rome’s most compelling destinations for Italian interior design. Its highly specialized team helps furnish some of the city’s most beautiful homes with exclusive collections from leading brands such as Cassina, Fontana Arte, Foscarini, Tonelli, and Flexform. The shop’s two showrooms—the second located near the Spanish Steps—offer an inspiring overview of both Italian crafts- manship and international design.
Via della Scrofa, 104. arconroma.com

Ripetta Design is an elegant gallery devoted to fabrics and accessories spanning Art Deco and contemporary styles. Rich velvets, silks, embroidered satins, cottons, and linens from some of the world’s most luxurious brands line the space, alongside an exceptional selection of wallpaper ranging from classic motifs to boldly eccentric patterns. Exclusive design objects complete the offering, making this refined atelier an essential stop for anyone looking to transform their interior.
Via di Ripetta, 152. ripettadesign.com

Boschettotre is a concept store created by Oriana Tombolesi, an experienced interior designer who envisioned a space reflecting her personal taste and distinctive style. The collection features designer furniture and home décor, along with essential accessories such as artistic wallpapers, rugs, containers, kitchen utensils, shelving systems, and lighting. This charming boutique also offers a selection of items designed and handcrafted in its own workshop.
Via del Boschetto, 3. boschettotre.it

Dispensabile presents a refined studio-showroom with a distinctly Nordic sensibility. Within its elegant interior, visitors will find furnishings, home accessories, lighting, and design objects that combine clean lines with warm materials. The staff can also help visitors imagine and plan their own interiors. Among the brands represented are HAY, Alessi, Ferm Living, and Louis Poulsen.
Via d’Ara Coeli, 37/39. dispensabile.it

Retrò Design specializes in distinctive pieces that span the elegant restraint of the 1940s to the bold experimentation of the 1970s. The shop offers a selection of furniture, accessories, and decorative objects ideal for creating a dream midcentury interior. Italians refer to this category as modernariato: think sculptural sofas, postwar glassware, and playful 1970s lighting that brings personality to any space.
Piazza del Fico, 21. retrodesign.it

Mia Home Design Gallery is a dynamic showroom where contemporary and retro elements blend seamlessly. The constantly evolving selection features unique design objects, limited editions, and pieces by both established designers and emerging talents. The home is conceived as a deeply personal space that reflects the creative individuality of its owner.
Via di Ripetta, 224. galleriamia.it