"Incanto Rustico: A Cozy Retreat in Campania"
"This is where I grew up, and it's where I want to return."
Perito is a unique place, where you can still breathe the authenticity ofthe past. Nestled in the Cilento National Park, it's a magical location,primarily known for its endless views where the green hills meet the sea. Thisis the breathtaking scene that greets you when you first step into the Cesira house. The living room features windows that seem like paintings hanging on thewalls, depicting pristine nature, reminiscent of the typical landscapes foundin Flemish paintings.
"It's here that I grew up, and it's here that I want to return,"says Cesira, who has just turned 90.
The village, which stretches along, maintains the typical layout of places frozen in time, when the community was vibrant, and agriculture and olive cultivation ruled the land. Today, Perito has few year-round residents but becomes incredibly populated in the summer. Nostalgic visitors, relatives, curious travelers – they all gravitate to this village with its lively stone houses. And it's here that Cesira returns every year, with her husband, children, grandchildren, and friends in tow.
Her two-story residence needs a complete renovation, making it morecomfortable and taking into account a specific feature: it must be welcoming.As mentioned, everyone comes here during the summer, so a large dining tablethat can accommodate everyone and as many beds as possible are necessary. Thisis where our project begins.
The ground floor, comprising a small living room with a kitchen, a small bathroom, and a bedroom, is entirely reimagined. Walls are removed to create more space, accommodating a comfortable 12-seat dining table and a sofa that can convert into a bed. The living room features a fireplace that has been fully restored and covered in stone to establish a connection with the outdoors. The chandeliers are mostly minimal, except those above the dining table, which are made of Vienna straw. The bathroom also benefits from an expansion, with the addition of a laundry area and a 140cm walk-in shower.
The second floor is connected by a new burgundy-colored iron staircase, which adds personality and contrasts with the completely white walls. Here, theintervention is less invasive. All the rooms are kept in their natural state but equipped with air conditioning. The bathroom is also expanded to make it more functional.
The logic behind the choice of colors, materials, and furnishings follows specific guidelines:
Warmth and Comfort: The use of warm-toned woods and textured materials invites relaxation.
Natural Elements: Natural materials like stone, combined with modern dark accents, create a mix of tradition and innovation, indoors and outdoors.
Vintage Accents: Timeless pieces that tell a story are used to add an eclectic touch to a more rustic home.
Light: The decision to enlarge the front windows aims to maximize natural light and let the beauty of the countryside take center stage.
Atmosphere: The fireplace has become the heart of the house, designed to enhance cozy evenings and intimate conversations.
Accessories: Ceramics, paintings, and small artisanal details emphasize the authenticity of the space.
The project will be completed in 2024 with two new spaces: a renovation ofan adjacent warehouse space, complete with a large terrace that will offer a360-degree relaxation experience.
