Villa di campagna

Villa di campagna | San Vito dei Normanni, Italy | 2023
[Quarzo Studio + Casanguilla]

The dwelling, situated a short distance from Ostuni, nestles within the Puglian countryside, enclosed by dry stone walls. It hosts 120 olive trees and a diverse array of fruit trees.

A tree-lined pathway, adorned with maritime pines and cypresses, leads to a central courtyard. Here, one can find a small ‘lamia,’ a typical local structure similar to a trullo but lacking the cone-shaped roof, alongside an old, architecturally insignificant house that was demolished, reconstructed, and expanded.

The importance of preserving the agricultural landscape and the desire to embrace the tranquility of the surroundings have contributed to shaping a project characterized by simple forms and minimalistic spaces. It retains a tactile quality and a close connection to the simplicity of rural life.

The new construction’s regularity, a white rectangular structure measuring approximately 30 by 6 meters, contrasts with the gentle shape of the renovated lamia. Verandas and porticos act as transitional spaces, regulating the transition from indoor to outdoor, ensuring increased intimacy within the spaces, and mitigating the impact of summer heat on the windows, allowing for larger windows to frame the landscape.

The main entrance is situated within a small patio housing a pepper tree. The pronounced sense of verticality due to proportions is softened by a latticed wall facing west, allowing filtered light.

Internally, the essential and geometric lines of custom-made furnishings, travel memories, and numerous artisanal objects reflect the personal imprint of the commissioning party.

The materials deliberately echo the local environment: white-painted tuff walls, ash wood fixtures and furnishings, rough concrete flooring, and local stone tubs.

The pool area, positioned in close proximity to the surrounding countryside, is enclosed by a lengthy white tuff wall, serving as a backdrop and separating it from the areas designated for outdoor living. Text description by the architects.