In the historic centre of Lequile, near Lecce in southern Puglia, this traditional Salento townhouse is conceived as a sensitive transformation of an existing historic property into a contemporary Mediterranean home.
The design begins with the character already present: soaring vaulted ceilings, original patterned floors, generous room proportions, a private citrus garden and views across the surrounding rooftops towards the town’s historic church.
Rather than erase these elements, the proposal celebrates them. Existing architectural features are retained wherever possible and combined with a restrained palette of natural finishes, warm plaster tones, stone, timber and carefully selected contemporary furnishings.
At the heart of the house, the living spaces are reconfigured to create a stronger relationship with the garden. A large glazed opening connects the vaulted interior with the courtyard, while a bespoke green kitchen introduces a contemporary counterpoint to the historic architecture.
Outside, the existing citrus garden becomes a secluded Mediterranean retreat with a stone-lined swimming pool, shaded seating areas and abundant planting. Above, the roof terrace creates an additional outdoor living space overlooking the historic centre of Lequile.
The project reflects Esplendido Design’s approach to historic properties: preserving the elements that give a building its identity while introducing a new layer of contemporary comfort, craftsmanship and Mediterranean living.
