Immersed within the unspoilt, natural beauty of Sicily's south-eastern corner, this abandoned farmhouse is being meticulously renovated to the highest possible standards, by a dynamic team of Italian architects and designers. Their ideas, inspired by the likes of Frank Lloyd Wright and Renzo Piano, along with building techniques which limit environmental impact, will combine to create a beautiful and unique property in a wonderful location.
Due for completion in September 2008, the transformed accommodation will comprise a two bedroom main house on two levels, incorporating the original dry-stone wall farmhouse and a new 50m2 open-plan kitchen and living area extension. Additionally, a separate, self-contained 1 bedroom guest apartment, complete with 15m swimming pool, courtyard & shower room will enjoy panoramic views over the endless countryside.
The original stone farmhouse features high ceilings with exposed whitewashed beams and metre-thick walls, which will guarantee that the property remains a cool haven throughout the long Sicilian summers, yet snug and warm during the winter months. The extension and guest apartment are both to be constructed using termofon which is a natural, environmentally friendly building material with the thermal characteristics of natural stone.
Surrounding the property will be courtyards, covered indoor gardens, and a small vegetable garden will lead directly from the kitchen of the main house. The property sits in a 2 hectare plot of farmland, with carob, almond, hazel and olives trees. Additionally there is a small vineyard, which will produce 20 crates of wine, when fully matured.
Full maintenance of the property and its grounds are provided by the same company that are responsible for the restoration and design project, with the first two years provided free of charge.
Salinella and the surrounding area
The south-east of Sicily is blessed with not one, but six UNESCO World Heritage sites, all within easy reach of Salinella. The wonderfully restored city of Noto with its baroque masterpieces is just one example of the simply stunning architecture you will find in this quiet corner of Sicily. The countryside has a charming feel to it, with the many fields of olives, vines or corn framed with the dry-stone walls so prevalent in this part of Sicily.
Transport links to the property are good and rapidly improving with the extension of the motorway, providing easy access to the international airport in Catania. The 47 million Euro redevelopment of nearby Comiso airport is likely to have a positive impact on property prices in this region. The secluded beaches of Sicily's southern coast are within a 30 minute drive.
The design team for this property are now working on future renovation projects in this very desirable area of Sicily. Details available on request.