Eden privato – our new residential project on AD Italia

"Until now, our work has focused primarily on producing and curating collectible design. This project demonstrates that our identity can also be translated into space, creating interiors where history, art, and contemporary design find a balance. Without nostalgia."

Gherardo Tonelli, CEO of Paradisoterrestre

Text: Elena Dallorso
Photo: DePasquale + Maffini

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In an apartment in the heart of Bologna, the brand founded by Dino Gavina translates into space for the first time. A total concept.
The last adventure of the eclectic Dino Gavina, conceived in the 1970s, was named Paradisoterrestre. Its goal was to transform the home and garden into a personal Eden through the beauty and function of objects. Today, the brand’s legacy, relaunched by Gherardo Tonelli, becomes an all-encompassing interior design project for an apartment in the center of Bologna.

AD: Paradisoterrestre signs its first complete residential project. What does this house represent?
Gherardo Tonelli, CEO of Paradisoterrestre: It all started from a meeting with the Modenese entrepreneur Franco Iorio who, after a series of real estate investments in Bologna, wanted a house capable of creating a dialogue with the city. He didn’t come from the design world, but he placed great trust in us, allowing himself to be guided on a journey that also included art. For us, it was the opportunity to develop a total interior design project for the first time.

AD: How did you avoid a 1970s “time capsule” effect?
GT: The reference to the 1970s is there, but it has been reinterpreted. The mirrored furniture, the red lacquered dropped ceilings, and certain details speak that language, while the light-colored resin that unifies all the rooms restores continuity and modernity. Above all, we worked on the relationship with Bologna: the colors of the living room reflect the brick facades visible from the windows, the travertine bathrooms pay homage to Carlo Scarpa, and some of the original doors were salvaged and reintegrated into the project.

AD: How much does the location matter in this project?
GT: Tremendously. The apartment is located in the heart of the Quadrilatero district, inside a historic building overlooking the Church of Santa Maria della Vita. We were interested—as was the owner—in ensuring the house maintained a bond with its context, not only by restoring architectural elements but also by recreating the authentic atmosphere of Bolognese way of living.

AD: What does this experience leave Paradisoterrestre with?
GT: This is a major milestone for us. Until now, our work has focused primarily on producing and curating collectible design. This project demonstrates that our identity can also be translated into space, creating interiors where history, art, and contemporary design find a balance. Without nostalgia.