Mirrors, reflections, spatial illusions. Cavejastudio, in collaboration with the multidisciplinary studio Denara, renovated a flat – called Lelefante –inside Palazzo Belletti, a historic residence in the centre of Cesena, Italy. A conservative renovation project that respects the pre-existing features and seeks a balance between existing and new elements.

Designed to arouse amazement, the entrance consists of mirrored surfaces distributed to amplify the space and to reflect the light. Panels cover a double piece of furniture concealing a walk-in wardrobe and a storage, while regular black lines mark out the space, dematerialising mirrors and lightening the new structure, which also includes stairs leading to a loft.

The original cross-shaped wall system divides the flat into four areas: architects maintained the envelope of walls and added elements in harmony with the original structure, emphasising the 4 metre height of the rooms. The colours of furnishings recall the palette of the nineteenth-century frescoes on the ceilings, maintaining a link with the house’s historical traits.