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Creative Spirit on Das Ideale Heim

Journalist Susanna Koeberle from the magazine Das Ideale Heim visits Casa Caleido, the home of the creative duo, founders of MM Company, and recounts its creative essence.

“Casa Caleido reflects the eclectic taste and expertise of the two Creative Directors, Manuel Barbieri and Marco Magalini. The duo has known each other since 2009 and, in 2015, they founded MM Company, an agency specializing in creative consultancy and communication in the fields of design, interior design, and fashion.”

“With Casa Caleido, the two creatives decided to personally put into practice what they typically recommend to their clients. Their work goes beyond consultancy: some of the key elements in this home, such as the marble tables and certain wooden furnishings, were designed by them. Even the oriental-inspired design of the door arches is their creation. In this interior design, one steps into a personal universe, a mirror of the duo’s eclectic taste.”

“What makes this project unique is the creative freedom they allowed themselves, such as highlighting the charm of the unfinished and the imperfect—qualities that rarely find space in their daily professional work. The unusual combination of styles and eras offers a glimpse into the creativity of the two Venetians, a signature visible in every detail of this architectural gem. Influences range from the patina of the walls, evoking the raw charm of Venetian buildings, to the ornamental details that pay homage to Venice’s cosmopolitan history.”

“Through their work, Barbieri and Magalini are deeply familiar with the rich heritage of Italian design culture. They know how to breathe new life into historical elements, creating harmonious contrasts between different worlds. Using a musical analogy, one might say they ‘sample’ styles and materials. The combination of materials, textures, and colors creates a lively yet never overwhelming atmosphere. “While their work as curators and consultants often involves identifying the essence of a brand—namely reduction and strategy—with Casa Caleido, they were able to draw on their individual preferences.”
The many works of art that can be found throughout the flat are striking. Marco Magalini tells a nice story about this, which emphasises the personal touch of the project. All the artworks are gifts that the couple have given each other over the years – depending on their life situation, these include works by renowned artists from galleries as well as found objects from the flea market. It is precisely this unpretentious and multi-faceted look that makes this house so appealing.”

Ph. Beppe Brancato, styling Giulia Taglialatela