Revival of a Historic Villa on the Ligurian Riviera

Nestled on a serene plateau southwest of Arenzano, Italy, a historic villa overlooking the western Ligurian Riviera has undergone a stunning transformation. Originally developed by architects Ignazio Gardella and Marco Zanuso, this 650-square-meter villa, set within a sprawling three-hectare park, has been revitalised by Eligo Studio, initiated by interior designers Alberto Nespoli and Domenico Rocca. By Nikitha Sunil Vallikad

The villa’s origins date back to 1956, part of a broader real estate plan by Gardella and Zanuso to create vacation homes harmonising with the natural beauty of the Ligurian Riviera. The current owners sought to breathe new life into the villa, commissioning Eligo Studio to undertake a renovation that honours the villa’s history while incorporating modern living standards.

“This villa is not just a place to stay but a place to live, a true testament to the timeless allure of the Ligurian Riviera, where every detail has been crafted to create an unparalleled living experience by the sea,” say Alberto Nespoli and Domenico Rocca, designers at Eligo Studio.

Embracing Tradition: Exterior Design and Landscape Integration

The facade of this Ligurian Riveria villa beautifully retains its historical charm, boasting classic design elements that transport you back in time. Strategically placed windows flood the interiors with natural light and offer unobstructed views of the picturesque landscape, seamlessly blending indoor and outdoor spaces. Functional wooden shutters add a touch of tradition, providing both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits like privacy and protection from the elements. Symmetry plays a key role, with evenly spaced windows and a central entrance creating a welcoming focal point that enhances the villa’s grandeur and timeless appeal.

As you approach the main entrance, a stone pathway flanked by lush greenery and vibrant flowers invites you into this serene haven. The pathway leads to an arched doorway framed by terracotta accents, paying homage to traditional Ligurian Riveria architectural style while contrasting against the pristine white walls. The abundant greenery, including well-manicured hedges and mature trees, plays a crucial role in the villa’s design.

This lush vegetation not only enhances the visual appeal but also creates a sense of privacy and tranquillity, essential for a perfect vacation home. As you stroll through the garden, the vibrant bursts of colour from the flowering plants contrast beautifully with the green foliage, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

 Exploring Interiors: A Harmonious Blend of Comfort and Elegance

The design choices by Eligo Studio pay tribute to Giuseppe Terragni, nodding to the villa’s mid-century roots and showcasing the timeless appeal of well-thought-out Ligurian Riviera architecture. As you step into the villa’s living room, you are immediately enveloped by a sense of understated luxury and meticulous design. The double-height ceiling draws your eyes upward, creating a sense of openness and airiness. Nestled at the centre of this lofty expanse is a stunning chandelier, its glass elements cascading like delicate icicles, catching the light and casting a soft glow throughout the room.

One of the most captivating features is a delicate bas-relief map in the living room, a recreation of a mural painted by a previous owner who discovered an island under the sea.

This map, now subtly integrated into the wall, reveals its intricate details when bathed in natural light, adding a touch of mystique and continuity to the villa’s story. The pristine marble floors, adorned with a subtle geometric pattern, set the stage for a sophisticated and timeless aesthetic.

The plush, L-shaped beige sofa is perfectly positioned to take advantage of both the scenic views outside and the cosy fireplace within, inviting you to sink in and relax.

The choice of neutral upholstery ensures the room feels light and airy while providing a versatile backdrop for the room’s accents. Complementing the sofa are two sleek, blue armchairs that add a pop of colour and contrast to the otherwise neutral palette. The fireplace, with its elegant mantel and intricate detailing, serves as the room’s focal point. Above it, a striking piece of contemporary art adds a splash of vibrant colour and visual interest. This artwork, with its bold strokes and dynamic composition, injects personality into the space, making it uniquely captivating.

Moving to the perimeter of the room, you’ll notice the thoughtful incorporation of built-in shelving. These shelves, with their glossy finish and rich, warm tones, provide both functionality and aesthetic appeal. They are perfect for displaying curated collections of books, art pieces, and decorative items, adding a personal touch to the space. Brass accents, like the elegant lamps and decorative vases, further add warmth and contribute to the room’s cohesiveness.

The kitchen features deep blue lower cabinets contrasted with white and grey marble countertops and backsplash, adding a touch of luxury and modernity. The dining area continues this theme with a marble-covered wall and table, paired with wooden chairs that introduce warmth and a mid-century modern design.

Spanning three floors, each measuring 150 square meters, the villa accommodates the needs of its owners. The staircase, with its sleek, black railings and minimalist design, offers a striking contrast to the light and airy ambience of the living room. It leads to the upper floor, where additional windows continue the theme of natural light and openness. The layout includes numerous rooms and bathrooms, ensuring comfort and privacy for the entire family.

Each bedroom has its unique colour palette. For instance, the blue bedroom features glossy wall panels and a minimalist aesthetic. In contrast, another bedroom showcases a bold high-gloss yellow wall with a deep red upholstered headboard, creating a striking visual impact.

The upper floors, once hidden beneath green carpeting, now showcase beautifully restored marble and slate planks. The new bedroom flooring features a striped pattern of parquet crafted from three types of wood, ensuring continuity and style throughout the villa.

Whether basking in the light that floods through the grand openings or exploring the expansive park, residents and guests are continually reminded of the beauty and tranquillity of the Ligurian Riviera coastal landscape.

FACTFILE

Project Name: Ca’ De Vignasse

Architecture Studio: Eligostudio

Location: Arenzano Golf club, Ligurian Riviera, Italy

Area: 650 sqm + 3 hectare park

Completion: 2022

Photo Credits: Helenio Barbetta