Italian Renaissance Interior Design

Renaissance Interior Design

Period of classical revival in design, emphasizing symmetry, proportion, comfort, and beauty in wealthy homes.

Palazzo Medici-Riccardi

Early Renaissance palace in Florence featuring harmonious proportions, rusticated façade, and cortile with arcades.

Cortile

Central open courtyard providing light and ventilation; spaces are oriented inward toward it.

Piano Nobile

Main living floor where the most important rooms like the sala and camera are located.

Camera

Owner’s private room; often includes finer furniture and decoration.

Studiolo

Small private study used to store treasured items, books, and collections.

Classicism in Interiors

Use of classical elements such as columns, pilasters, aedicula, cornices, and symmetrical layouts.

Intarsia

Wood inlay forming images or depth using different species and grain directions.

Fresco

Painting technique applied directly on wet plaster walls.

Parquetry

Geometric patterned wood flooring, often oak or walnut.

Terrazzo

Marble or granite chips set in concrete, polished to a smooth surface.

Bolection Molding

Decorative molding projecting beyond the panel surface, often used on fireplaces and doors.

Cassone

Dowry chest; decorated with carvings or intarsia; can double as seat or table

Cassapanca

Cassone with arms and back → early form of sofa.

Credenza

Storage cabinet for linens, silver, and serving items.

Letto

Large bed with paneled headboard/footboard; may include tester and drapery

Refectory Table

Long dining table with trestle legs or baluster supports; originated from monasteries

Sedia

Square armchair with finials and low stretchers.

Sgabello

Light wooden dining chair; 3-leg or trestle supports; stiff back.

Savonarola

X-shaped chair with curved slats and carved back; folding tradition.

Dante Chair

X-shaped but more decorated; upholstered seat and back.

Torchère

Tall stand that holds a torch or candle

Candelabra

Stand that holds multiple candles.

Venetian mirrors

Small mirrors with ornate carved frames; luxury item due to advanced glassmaking.

Spinetto

Small portable harpsichord placed on tables.

Harpsichord

Large keyboard instrument with decorated case and supporting legs — furniture-like piece.