Milan-based A2BC Architects merged ancient and modern in their overhaul of a crumbling farmhouse on the terraced hillside of Cinque Terre in Liguria, Italy. They shored up the existing structure, plastered the interiors, replaced the flooring with polished concrete throughout, and added black steel windows to frame the views. Here’s a look inside (and out).
Photography by Giovanna Silva, courtesy of A2BC Architects.
![steel windows add a note of modernity to the old stone building. 17](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/fields/Farmhouse-Restoration-by-A2BC-Architects-and-SibillAssociati-01_0-733x488.jpg)
![polished concrete floors are a cohesive thread throughout the interior. 18](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/fields/Farmhouse-Restoration-by-A2BC-Architects-and-SibillAssociati-04-753x1024_1-733x997.jpg)
![a minimalist fireplace and bentwood chairs add warmth to the dining area. 19](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/fields/Farmhouse-Restoration-by-A2BC-Architects-and-SibillAssociati-06-682x1024.jpg)
![the only dash of color in the living area comes via a pair of persimmon upholst 20](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/fields/Farmhouse-Restoration-by-A2BC-Architects-and-SibillAssociati-05-733x488.jpg)
![a sanctuary in the summer months: a pale bedroom with white linens. 21](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/fields/Farmhouse-Restoration-by-A2BC-Architects-and-SibillAssociati-09-733x488.jpg)
![light green closet doors add a note of color. 22](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/fields/Farmhouse-Restoration-by-A2BC-Architects-and-SibillAssociati-16-733x488.jpg)
![in another bedroom, more persimmon, via bed linens. (for a similar italian bedr 23](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/fields/Farmhouse-Restoration-by-A2BC-Architects-and-SibillAssociati-14-733x488.jpg)
![an original stone wall contrasts with the new structural elements. 24](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/fields/Farmhouse-Restoration-by-A2BC-Architects-and-SibillAssociati-13-682x1024.jpg)
![a view of the sloping hillside. 25](https://media.remodelista.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/fields/Farmhouse-Restoration-by-A2BC-Architects-and-SibillAssociati-19-733x488.jpg)
For more skillfully updated Italian farmhouses and villas, see:
- House Tour: Pastels Go Rustic in a 17th-Century Masseria
- Il Baciarino: An Off-the-Beaten Path Tuscan Retreat
- A Light-Filled Chalet in the Italian Alps, Updated for a Young Skier
And, over on Gardenista, check out Outbuilding of the Week: A Woodshed Transformed, by StudioErrante in Italy.
N.B.: This post is an update; the original story ran September 6, 2013.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Italian farmhouse located?
The Italian farmhouse is located in the Puglia region of southern Italy.
Who renovated the Italian farmhouse?
The Italian farmhouse was renovated by the owner, interior architect Benedetta Kassai and her husband.
What color scheme did the owner use for the interiors?
The owner used a bold and vibrant color palette, inspired by the sunny climate and natural surroundings of the region.
What is the inspiration behind the farmhouse's interiors?
The interiors are inspired by the local textures, patterns, and colors of Puglia's countryside, as well as the Mediterranean lifestyle.
What materials were used in the renovation?
The renovation included salvaged materials such as old wood beams and local stone, as well as hand-painted tiles, handmade textiles, and bespoke furniture.
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