Reviewed by Abigail Hole
 |
|
VILLA CERVAROLO - REVIEW
Under Puglia’s hot blue skies, winding olive-lined lanes lead to this stunningly restored farmhouse, set among olive and almond trees and sun-bleached dry-stone walls. It's built around 4 ancient, hobbit-like trulli: stubby, conical towers peculiar to this part of Italy.
But rather than decorate in traditional style, the owners have gone for striking contemporary chic. The interior is minimalist creams and whites, with flashes of pinky-orange, tobacco-brown and burnt-petrol blue in the 3 bedrooms. In the arched sitting room, there's a large open fireplace and oblong windows framing rural views. French doors link inside and out, rendering the house very light and airy, and floors are paved in pale pinky-cream local stone. A new wing blends perfectly with the 300-year-old part, without trying to imitate it. Outside, the pool, overlooked by a barbecue and gorgeous outdoor sitting room, has a beach-style edge so you can wallow in the shallows, listening to birdsong and the occasional tractor. |
