House in Puglia
In the historic center of Nardò, amongst Moorish architecture and baroque friezes, two architects of a famous Italian jewellery maison have created their sanctuary: a home to escape the metropolitan frenzy and reconnect with the earth, and the people.
The delicate fragrance of jasmine invites you into the ‘ortale’ that is protected by a historic gate, here a wall of mirrors reflects the ancient ‘chianche’ marble floor and the beaten iron banister that winds along the stone staircase bringing you to the entrance where you will find the authentic pavement flooring that has been restored to its former glory.
«The hand of the architect must not be felt» has been the mantra whilst renovating their home. The rooms have once more found their original character and timelessness where tradition and modernity coexist in perfect harmony. The home’s distinctive architectural details set the stage for a mixture of modern, vintage and antique furnishings, creating a space which embodies a new post-contemporary style.
The warm natural light of the south of Italy illuminates the large living room that is paved in decorative cement tiles from a local artisan, their distinctive aubergine and grey colours bringing lightness and warmth to the space. The breakfast counter in traditional heavy carrara marble separates the modern stainless steel kitchen from the sitting room which is decorated in 1950’s furnishings found in garage sales and bazaars from around the world. On the white limestone walls hang Slim Aaron’s photographs of the 1950’s Californian jet set lifestyle, whilst Palermo artist Sciortino’s rugged iron sculptures look on in perfect contrast. The sitting room leads you out an arched glass door unto the terrace overlooking a typical piazza from Salento surrounded by beautiful time-worn palaces and ornamental climbing bougainvilleas.
The bedrooms are understated, softened by warm feminine colours and natural materials and furnished in custom made minimal furniture, whereas in the bathrooms bordeaux details stand out amongst the zinc and concrete elements.
Enchanting and atmospheric, it is not difficult to imagine oneself amongst friends enjoying dinner on the terrace under a starry night sky, illuminated by warm candelight while Patty Pravo’s ‘The Dream’ plays from an old vinyl record - a most befitting setting for a magical place such as this.
