Molteni&C Furnishes The Embassy Of Italy, London

Molteni&C is one of the key contributors to the redesign of the Embassy of Italy in London, curated by Nick Vinson alongside Avanti Architects.

Molteni&C is proud to take part in the prestigious project to redesign the residence of the Italian Ambassador, Inigo Lambertini, located in Grosvenor Square, London. Situated on the second and third floors of a Grade II-listed building originally constructed in 1868, the apartment’s interiors were last remodelled in the 1930s by the architectural practice Wellesley & Wills.

By 2023, when an invitation to tender was issued, the ambassador’s residence was showing signs of wear and in need of a thoughtful refresh. “As time passed, these spaces no longer adequately conveyed Italy’s image in the world, nor reflected the vitality and innovation of our country,” explains Ambassador Lambertini. “The goal was to combine tradition and modernity, highlighting the elegance of the building without sacrificing a contemporary imprint that reflects the excellence of Italian design.”

The project was led by designer Nick Vinson, who collaborated closely with Fiona Lamb of Avanti Architects. Avanti provided essential technical and bureaucratic support, bringing their expertise in conserving modern buildings from the 1920s to the post-war period. Their notable restorations include the Isokon Flats in Hampstead and Berthold Lubetkin’s Penguin Pool at London Zoo.

For the apartment’s renovation, Vinson aimed to preserve its existing character while introducing new elements that engage in dialogue with the building’s architectural features and its Italian heritage. “I wanted to create a showcase for the very best of Made in Italy,” Vinson comments. “The most rewarding part was experiencing the enthusiasm of all the exceptional Italian companies involved.”

Describing the project as “a dream assignment for a dream client,” Vinson worked alongside the embassy’s head of administration, Federico Balsani, to bring the vision to life. Molteni&C furnished the bedrooms—including the presidential suite—with Ribbon beds, as well as the iconic D.847.1 writing desk, designed by Gio Ponti.