The word simple is often used as a putdown, but this apartment in the Rome suburbs is a great example of pared-back design being more than the sum of its parts. The interior is dominated by muted neutrals and light pastel colours, but it feels bright and instantly welcoming. It certainly helps that there's a lot of natural light coming in through the glass doors, which in turn lead out to a long balcony. There's seating out here, as well as a view of the green hillside which is rather peaceful — especially for the Italian capital. The same could be said for the surrounding suburb of Aurelio, which feels a world away from the touristy haunts but is actually quite close when it comes down to it. You can go from your front door to the Pantheon in twenty-five minutes via public transit if you put your mind to it. The sprawling grounds of Villa Doria Pamphilj can be reached in ten minutes on foot, too.

Read less