Arboreal

Step into a world of jungle bliss at this tropical home in Milan’s hip Isola neighbourhood. Housed in a former mattress factory dating back to the 1930s, there are still traces of this home’s quirky past hidden amongst its plants’ tangle of fronds, including exposed brick walls, cast iron radiators, cement floors and beautiful beamed ceilings. The living room is decked out in a carousel of ornaments, with giant areca palms framing a shelved feature wall and a grand ornamental fireplace. The dining room is a joy to gather in with its leafy wallpaper and 1950s pink mirror table, while the kitchen looks like a vintage bakery counter with its island, breakfast bar and wicker chairs. Upstairs, the red-curtained bedroom is a sumptuous affair with a mind-boggling floating bed and a freestanding tub that invites long soaks after a day of sightseeing. Speaking of things to do, go out and explore the local area – Isola is packed full of cool cafes, trendy shops and family-run trattorias, while the Duomo is walkable in forty-five minutes. Even with Milan’s stunning sights within easy reach, with your own private oasis to escape into, we don’t see any reason to ever leave.


Home truths:
*At maximum capacity, one guest will be sleeping on the futon in the living room
*The mezzanine bedroom is open to the downstairs living area, meaning there's not much privacy if another guest is sleeping downstairs
*Unfortunately, this home isn't suitable for children under two years old
*The bathtub is in the master bedroom which may not be to every couple's taste
*There's a rather elaborate irrigation system for the plants – please don't change anything to it
*Given its position on the ground floor, the flat doesn't get very much natural light
*Guests are asked to respect the neighbourhood's quiet hours between 11 pm and 9 am
*Paid parking is available nearby – ask your host for more information if you plan on bringing a car