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The art of crafting cosy interiors
Timeless insights for warmth and elegance
As the seasons shift and winter embraces us, the longing for warmth, comfort, and luxury becomes more pronounced in our interiors. To explore the nuances of creating cosy spaces that are both timeless and inviting, we spoke with Irene Valbusa, Principal Designer FF&E at Studio Piet Boon. With years of experience blending aesthetics and functionality, Irene shares her insights on achieving harmony in design.
A foundation in design excellence
Irene Valbusa's journey into the world of interior design began in Milan, where her studies at Politecnico University instilled both technical precision and creative vision. Now, as a principal designer at Studio Piet Boon, she specializes in crafting interiors that embody timeless elegance and practical sophistication. “Each project should feel authentic and unique,” she says, “shaped by the client’s desires and the character of its surroundings.” This philosophy underpins her approach to creating spaces that balance luxury with a profound sense of home.
The essence of a cosy interior
For Studio Piet Boon, “cosy” transcends fleeting trends—it’s about creating environments that are harmonious, inviting, and personal. Irene defines it as “a blend of warmth, texture, and functionality, all while maintaining an understated sense of luxury.”
In winter, ambience takes center stage. Dimmable lighting, tactile materials, and muted tones become tools to transform spaces into sanctuaries. “Soft lighting, layered textures, and thoughtful spatial design make interiors both visually appealing and comforting,” Irene explains. These elements come together to create an atmosphere of ease and elegance that’s especially cherished during the colder months.
Designing for warmth and intimacy
How does one begin the process of designing a warm, luxurious interior? For Irene, it starts with layering. “A subtle color palette paired with natural materials like wood and stone forms the base,” she says. Interesting textures and bespoke furniture enhance the tactile and visual appeal, while art and accessories lend personality and intimacy to the space.
Functionality is equally important. Studio Piet Boon’s designs incorporate practical layouts and custom millwork, ensuring spaces remain organized and purposeful. Irene highlights the role of details, noting, “Luxury is found in the ease of using a space and the meticulous attention to detail, from bespoke craftsmanship to layered lighting, and even the refinement of architectural hardware like door and furniture fittings.”
The role of natural materials
Natural materials are the cornerstone of cosy interiors, and Irene is a strong advocate for their use. “Wood, stone, and high-quality textiles bring authenticity and character to a space,” she notes. These elements create a timeless aesthetic while supporting sustainable design practices. Studio Piet Boon also explores innovative finishes to elevate their interiors. From polished and honed stone to high-performance textiles, every choice is meticulously curated. Advances in sustainable materials like vegan leather and recycled fabrics inspire Irene, who emphasizes the importance of staying informed about new innovations.
To complement these materials, details like hardware play a crucial role. Sustainable hardware made from predominantly recycled stainless steel, finished with eco-friendly techniques such as FORMANI's PVD coating, effortlessly integrates with natural textures. This approach enhances the overall harmony of the design while ensuring the durability required for timeless interiors.
Details that make a difference
Details such as door hardware are integral to completing an interior. Studio Piet Boon has collaborated with FORMANI to design collections that seamlessly blend with their projects. “FORMANI’s sleek, high-quality hardware aligns perfectly with our aesthetic,” Irene says. “It’s about creating a tactile experience where every interaction enhances the sense of luxury.”
She emphasizes the importance of tactility and color in these details. “The smoothness of a well-crafted handle or the warmth of its color can elevate a detail from purely functional to a true statement piece,” she explains. FORMANI’s thoughtfully curated color palette is essential to achieving this harmony. From the timeless elegance of (PVD) satin black to the refined, earthy tones of the latest PVD light bronze, each finish is meticulously designed to complement diverse materials and interior styles. These versatile hues not only enhance the visual appeal but also ensure seamless and harmonious integration into the overall design.
Tips for combining luxury and coziness
Irene offers clear advice for designers aiming to blend luxury with warmth: “Focus on balance, quality, and craftsmanship—avoid over-cluttering or overwhelming a space with excessive decor.” Her go-to solutions include layered material palettes, cozy accessories like cushions and throws, carefully curated lighting setups, and refined details such as high-quality door hardware.
For an instant inviting touch, she suggests adding sculptural elements or art pieces. These subtle enhancements, paired with elegant hardware, elevate the space without detracting from its overall harmony.
Trends shaping cosy luxury interiors
Sustainability is at the heart of Studio Piet Boon’s evolving design philosophy, with a strong emphasis on locally sourced materials, timeless aesthetics, and durable finishes that minimize environmental impact while ensuring longevity. This approach reflects the growing demand for adaptable, multifunctional spaces that cater to diverse needs. Innovations in sustainable materials, such as mycelium and recycled fabrics, along with advancements in flexible lighting designs, continue to inspire Irene Valbusa and her team. “We’re excited to incorporate these technologies as they mature,” she notes, highlighting Studio Piet Boon’s dedication to merging innovation with timeless beauty.
This commitment to sustainability is mirrored in FORMANI’s approach to architectural hardware. With over 70% recycled stainless steel and durable, eco-friendly finishes like PVD coatings, their products combine longevity with environmental responsibility. Additionally, 98% of their hardware components are recyclable, aligning seamlessly with the principles of sustainable design.
A personal touch
For Irene, inspiration often comes from her travels and the architecture she encounters. “I love visiting design masterpieces and understanding what makes them unique,” she shares. Translating these insights into her work involves tailoring them to resonate with each client’s lifestyle while staying true to Studio Piet Boon’s DNA.
Closing thoughts
Creating a cosy interior is both an art and a science, and Irene Valbusa exemplifies how thoughtful design can achieve this balance. By blending warmth, texture, and functionality, Studio Piet Boon continues to redefine luxury for modern living.
