The article discusses the Baroque style's purpose as a counter-reformation tool, highlighting its prominent application in Rome's architecture. The Palazzo Capponi, once stripped of its original interiors, is being revived into Romeo Hotel Roma by Zaha Hadid Architects. The firm seeks not just to restore but to innovate, creating a visually striking blend of historical and modern design. Project lead Paola Cattarin emphasizes the reinterpretation of historical architectural elements as key to the new design, indicating a deep connection to Rome's layered architectural history.
With ZHA not content to just recreate a disingenuous facsimile, this juxtaposition is both visually appealing and authentic; operating along the lines of patronage: the age-old tradition in which skilled artist and artisans were called up to outfit grand edifices - like this one - with incredibly detailed ornamentation and flex their creative muscles in doing so.
Rome's architectural history can be read in its masonry vaults, from the Roman, through the Renaissance and Baroque periods, into the 18th Century. We took inspiration from this idea, to make a new interpretation of vaults and their intersections.
Tasked with its adaptive reuse transformation, powerhouse London firm Zaha Hadid Architects (ZHA) worked to revive what would become Romeo Hotel Roma's meticulously painted ceiling and wall frescos before introducing its distinctly futuristic - and parametric - touch.
Defined by its elaborate articulation of grandeur and intricate curvature, the 17th century Baroque style was implemented as a counter Protestant Reformation measure intended to draw the masses back to the pomp and circumstance of the Catholic Church.
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