This sleek, new rooftop apartment was created as a hymn to contemporary design composed to harmonize with its ancient setting. In pitch-perfect contrast to the historic heart of the city it overlooks, the cool panoramic perch, decorated in shades of white and dove grey, showcases the art of modern lighting and unique, built-in furnishings that pair form and function.
Named “Canticle” for its harmonious tribute to contemporary architecture in the heart of an ancient city, this modern apartment combines state-of-the-art luxuries with sharp modern styling.
Breaking with the classic context of its location within Lucca’s ancient city walls, designers Marco Vincenzi and Andrea Caturegli of Studiòvo created an ultra-modern perch where shiny oak gleams on the floors and also accents the kitchen’s innovative curving walls. The kitchen’s partitions and cabinets were made to measure specifically for the space and created within (as opposed to simply assembled or installed) in feat of modern joinery. And this design theme continues outside, where a teak dining and hot tub deck wend around the dramatic roof terrace, with its stunning 360-degree views.
A hymn of its own to contemporary design, the apartment’s unique lighting is a central element in its overall design. Vincenzi and Caturegli approached lighting as an architectural “form” that elevates the electricity above a mere necessary function. Created to fill the apartment with emotion, the adjustable light sources can be regulated to change the ambiance, bathing the apartment a particular mood, or look, depending on the time of day or the activity—dining, resting, socializing or lounging. Lights reflect off vivid white walls, combine with window openings of natural light, or are creatively diffused overhead in alcoves or architectural ceiling elements. A swirling chandelier in the open-plan dining/living area complements the curving partition walls, and some lights were even created to change color.
A high-tech location, the apartment also features iPad and app-operated smart technologies (TV, surround sound, etc.). And the two sleek bathrooms are connected by a contemporary take on the traditional hammam, featuring a futuristic bioethanol hearth and the possibility to bathe the adjoining bathrooms in a soothing shade of blue.
AROUND
Centrally located in the most historical center of Lucca, this vacation home rental in Italy is ideally situated for guests wanting to explore this medieval city. A former Roman colony, there are traces of history everywhere. From centuries-old Ducal palaces, churches and fortifications to the remnants of the Roman amphitheater, there is much to explore.
There's no shortage of amazing cafes, shops and restaurants along with fresh local markets and, if your timing is right, you can check out the antique market, a sprawling cacophony of antique items and curios on the third weekend of the month. The drama of history is everywhere and is all tightly contained within the ancient fortified walls.
Don't miss Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, the ellipse of medieval houses that comprise the central region of the city that were built around the amphitheater ruins. The fabulous seaside resort town of Versilia and Viareggio beach are under a half hour away.
LOCATION
Lucca, Italy. Nearest airport: Lucca-Tassignano (7 km/15 min).
BEST TIME TO VISIT: April through November for the best weather.