In the vibrant city of Milan, first impressions are paramount. Editor Karl Kolbitz presents an unprecedented photographic journey into the sumptuous entrance halls of 144 Milanese buildings, previously concealed behind restrained façades. The collection reveals dazzling examples of Italian modernism, showcasing a diverse array of colors and forms that mediate public and private spaces. Spanning from 1920 to 1970, the entryways represent the work of renowned architects like Gio Ponti and Luigi Caccia Dominioni, alongside equally impactful non-pedigreed architecture. Photographs by Delfino Sisto Legnani, Paola Pansini, and Matthew Billings capture the details and larger architectural views, while written contributions from experts provide insights into materials, fittings, and art-historical and social implications.
