An ancient, derelict, Italian palazzo, and a foreign customer fascinated by its history and determined to give it new life: this is how the project for the property restoration began. The mission of this initiative was defined by a respect for regional style, methods and materials in combination with advanced engineering techniques, and, finally, catering to the expectations of a sophisticated, burgeoning tourist market. A complex intervention was required to address important structural disruptions on vaulted roofs and walls. In addition, time and neglect contributed to the advanced degradation of finishes, fixtures and flooring...all of which required varying degrees of replacement or restoration while respecting the centuries-long history of the structure.

An innovative approach was needed to maintain the appearance of minimal intervention and allowing a contemporary design with historical accents. Extensive structural consolidation works carried out on the walls and extrados of the vaults were done using reinforcement techniques that were adapted to the traditional architectural style. The masonry works resulted in flexible interior and external areas: the property can be used as a single, large real estate unit, but can also be seamlessly partitioned into several apartments, each with private entrances and outdoor space. Thus, a design that serves the housing needs of the client, but with a configuration that easily adapts to satisfy the growing tourist demand. The end result is a contemporary design that blends modern amenities such as underfloor heating and home automation into a structure of great historical value. The careful use of finishes and selection of furnishings create a contrast between new and old, which highlights and pays tribute to the rich legacy of the structure.