Casa MIMO

, São Bento

This striking two-bedroom apartment in São Bento has recently undergone a complete renovation, defined by exceptional attention to detail, thoughtful design, and high-quality finishes. Atelier Lal, led by Monical Lal and Miguel Machado, approached the project with clear sensitivity to the apartment’s history.

Frescoes adorn the walls, and original features such as solid pine floors and ornate plasterwork ceilings are not just restored but highlighted, their natural patina and imperfections telling the home’s story. All pine floors, doors, and shutters are original and have been carefully refurbished to maintain their authentic texture.

New elements are introduced with restraint: European oak cabinetry, raw lime-based plaster, and carefully designed openings connect the spaces. The kitchen and bathroom have been reimagined for everyday functionality and longevity, featuring Lioz limestone flooring. The kitchen is fitted with Smeg and Liebherr appliances and Blanco tapware, while the bathroom includes Vola and Ceramica Cielo fittings. Details such as THPG switches, local brass hardware, and hand-blown Murano glass lighting from Italy bring a subtle, tactile quality throughout.

The layout respects the original flow of the home while adding practical new connections. The living and dining spaces now communicate more easily, and a former bedroom has been opened up into a flexible studio or workspace. Each room retains its own character but relates seamlessly to the next, with generous ceiling heights and considered transitions drawing the eye through the apartment.

What makes this home stand out is its combination of restored heritage and thoughtfully considered updates, alongside quirks and unexpected angles that give each room a distinct feel. Every detail speaks to a careful, design-led approach, resulting in a space that feels grounded in its history yet ready for modern life.