Guastalla is an elegant region of central Milan, with a charming, tranquil garden at its heart. Just thirteen minutes on foot from the 16th-century pond and lawns of the Giardini della Guastalla, serenity continues at home. And after an evening at the local Teatro Carcano, it’s only a ten-minute walk to this stylish studio.

Bright, airy, and understated, this apartment is well suited to city-dwellers looking for peace and quiet. Although it’s a studio, it feels incredibly spacious thanks to high ceilings and a wonderfully elongated room. Six sets of large windows run all the way down the outer edge, bathing the entire space in light and illuminating the rich, hardwood floors.

As for the furniture, we love the mix of retro pieces with industrial, modern touches. At one end, a vintage-style floor mirror and wooden cabinets offer an antique vibe in the sleeping area. At the other, oversized bulbs hang from black flexes on the ceiling, and a glossy, black lampshade creates atmosphere over the dining table. Or you can also dine alfresco in your private courtyard. In a nod to the famous nearby garden, this leafy corner is perfect for a bowl of olives and a negroni.

Home truths:
*As this is a studio home, the bedroom is not a separate, enclosed room
*There’s no dedicated workspace, but plenty of laptop-friendly spots
*The main building entrance is not private, but shared with other residents
*Dogs have stayed here in the past, so guests with strong allergies might want to check with the host about which breeds have visited
*Car access and parking is fairly restricted, but the Porta Romana metro stop is just a three-minute walk from home