Polimi Design School – Interiors Colour Plan
The colour issue: How can colour renovate and brighten up an institutional school space?
Environmental Colour Design | Colour in Spatial Planning | Colour Management
As Colour Consultant for the renovation of the interior spaces at the School of Design, Politecnico di Milano, I was responsible for designing the complete interior colour plan. The project involved multiple areas, including staff offices, the main corridor, the Dean’s office, a meeting room, and shared spaces for coffee breaks and lunchtime. My work focused on translating the client’s vision into a cohesive palette of key colours, applied strategically to differentiate zones, enhance spatial and light perception, and bring cohesion to the environment. A critical part of the work was ensuring consistent colour equivalence across various surfaces used throughout the interiors.
One of the main design challenges was a long, windowless corridor at the centre of the building. To address this, I introduced saturated, vibrant hues and carefully placed them to reflect and amplify the natural light coming from adjacent rooms—especially when the corridor doors are open. This transformed the corridor into a dynamic, welcoming space, counteracting its initial lack of daylight.
The final palette was crafted to reflect a modern, creative, and forward-thinking identity—fully aligned with the values of a leading design institution. To ensure accurate and reliable application, I employed colourimetry techniques and converted the palette into the RAL system for precise specification across all finishes.
This project is a clear example of how intentional colour design can reshape spatial experiences—enhancing atmosphere, functionality, and identity. Working closely with the client, I developed a tailored, intelligent colour strategy that met both aesthetic and technical goals in a complex architectural context.
Commissioner: Design School, Politecnico di Milano, Italy.
Collaborator: Andrea Manciaracina
Year: 2024.
