A Whimsical Reuse explores refined architectural transformations where history is reinterpreted through poetic interventions and contemporary craft. Forgotten spaces gain new life, revealing a dialogue between memory, material, and contemporary ways of living.
Designed by Plus Concept Studio as an inclusive environment for children, adults and people experiencing different forms of vulnerability, the former 55 sqm veterinary clinic has been reconfigured as a versatile space for art therapy. A single open plan is articulated through curved glass-block partitions, sliding curtains and bespoke movable furniture, allowing the interior to adapt to workshops, individual sessions and presentations. Natural oak, soft blue tones and carefully integrated lighting create a warm, tactile atmosphere.
Located in Guastalla, in the Bassa Reggiana of northern Italy, Dandelion sits within a landscape shaped by the Po River and a town whose urban fabric was significantly developed under the Gonzaga dynasty. Around 30 kilometres north of Reggio Emilia, Guastalla retains a distinctive Renaissance character, with historic squares, arcades and buildings defining its compact urban centre.
Against this backdrop, Dandelion occupies a former 55 sqm veterinary clinic, reworked into an art therapy studio through a renovation that introduces a multifunctional and flexible spatial configuration.
The studio welcomes people of all ages in an inclusive and stimulating environment designed to promote psychophysical well-being, with particular attention to those facing autism spectrum disorders, motor disabilities, or other forms of vulnerability.
The spatial configuration responds to these different needs through elements that can be opened, moved or concealed according to the activities taking place.
At the client’s request, the new layout includes an entrance and waiting area, a table zone, spaces for artistic activities for both adults and children—with the possibility of arranging easels in the centre of the room—and an area for presentations and conferences.
This range of uses informed the spatial organisation from the outset, allowing the same interior to accommodate different scales of activity while maintaining clear circulation.
The intervention began with the demolition of existing partitions and internal structures to make way for the new configuration. This was followed by an in-depth phase of study and customisation of the furnishings, all made to measure, resulting in a highly versatile and functional environment.
The furniture becomes an integral part of the architectural strategy, combining storage, work surfaces and spatial definition within a compact plan.
To define the new waiting area, a curved glass-block wall was introduced to enhance the diffusion of natural light.
A ceiling-mounted track system with sliding curtains allows the space to be divided while concealing the wheeled rectangular tables.
These can be moved to free up the central area, which can accommodate conferences—with the option of darkening the room—or artistic activities.
The combination of translucent surfaces and movable elements allows the interior to be reconfigured without introducing permanent barriers, preserving a sense of openness throughout the studio.
To optimize the available space, fixed wall-mounted canvas holders were installed for adults, while foldable work surfaces for children are integrated into the central pillar.
The side walls of the central area are equipped with base units, columns, wall cabinets and shelves for material storage.
Following the demolition of part of the rear wall, the existing access to the raised level was relocated and rotated by 90 degrees. A new staircase was inserted into a rounded volume, which also accommodates a platform lift for people with reduced mobility. The old opening was widened and transformed into a window overlooking the space below, allowing natural light to reach the area in front of the bathroom, which was renovated to ensure accessibility.
Soft shapes, furniture and flooring in natural oak tones, together with light blue wall finishes and carefully designed lighting, create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The restrained material palette reinforces the sense of continuity throughout the interior, while the combination of tactile materials, filtered light and rounded forms contributes to an environment that feels calm, accessible and adaptable.
Facts & Credits
Project title Dandelion
Typology Interior
Location Guastalla, Reggio Emilia, Italy
Area 55 sqm
Status Completed, 2025
Architecture, Interior Design, Bespoke Furniture Design Plus Concept Studio
Design team Alessandro Veneri, Roberta Pedrini
Furniture Production Montenapoleone Hub
Curtains Casa del tendaggio
Chairs Pedrali
Colors Kerakoll Color Collection
Lights Wever & Ducré, Gea Luce, Zava Luce
Photography Davide Galli Atelier
This project was submitted to Archisearch through the “Submit a Story” feature, where architects, designers, and creatives are invited to share their work for publication.