Capo Zafferano Seaside Villa

Architect Armando Barraja’s Modernist Villa Takes a Journey out to Sea

Pairing modern architectural lines and breathtaking natural scenery, this beach house rental in Sicily by architect Armando Barraja was designed to cut off the chaotic world and, instead, refocus inward and out to sea.

The strong composition and architectural vision invokes classic modernism, drawing inspiration from Lloyd Wright, Alvar Alto and Venetian, Carlo Scarpa, with subtle nautical design features like portholes and balustrade railings, that suggests a ship at sea. From the smallest constructive detail up to the proportional rhythms of the modular units, this villa recalls the love for Euclidian geometry.

Built in the 1980s as a family holiday home, the house is now in the capable hands of the second generation. In addition to being an architect, Barraja was a keen interior designer, founding an import company in the 1970s. A small collection of rare modernist pieces remain from the era including Panton, Breuer, Sapper, a divider by Franco Albini, chairs by Werner Panton and Marcel Breuer, a marble table by Dino Gavina, and lounge chairs belonging to the family since the 1920’s. 

A unique era in modern design, this island getaway preserves Barraja’s visionary architectural heritage for the next generation.

Set on a low bluff just steps from the a private cove, this beach house rental in Sicily is architect Armando Barraja’s vision of classic modernist design and carefree holiday fun. 

Entering through the upper level courtyard, you step down into a central living and dining room with a fireplace and a glass facade overlooking breathtaking views of the sea, Cape Zafferano and out across to the Aeolian Islands. The main concave terrace stretches along the house and the horizon with sheltered shade for lounging, dining and taking in the amazing views.  

Adjacent to the main living areas are a fully equipped galley-style kitchen, and three double bedrooms. From the terrace on either side, bridges lead to the back of the house with exterior staircases descending to the two lower floors, each with a bedroom and bathroom. 

Downstairs, the second convex-shaped terrace is the spot to soak up the sun or wander down to garden stairs to the rock platforms below, just above the water’s edge.

Additional features

Wifi throughout, cable TV, kitchen and bath essentials, laundry facilities, private on site parking, wheelchair accessible. 

Around

Less than an hour east of Palermo on Cape Zafferano, the town of Bagheria is known as “the town of villas,” with it’s popularity among the aristocracy and as a seaside vacation spot beginning in the 17th century. A charming and historic town, the Corso Umberto is the main promenade lined with shops and cafes with echoes of the Renaissance all around.

Surrounded by olive and orange groves, the area is also characterized by the nearby Sicilian maritime towns of Santa Flavia and Sant’Elia-Porticello. 

Further east along the Tyrrhenian Coast, the popular seaside resort town of Cefalù includes two of the island’s best north shore beaches, Mazzaforno and Settefrati. A UNESCO designated town and historic fishing harbor, the pretty medieval streets are dominated by a 12th century Norman cathedral and an ancient hilltop fortress and is known for its excellent restaurants that serve local seafood and wines and its many interesting shops. The rugged Madonie Mountains National Park are just over an hour drive inland with great hiking and forest trails and several medieval villages to explore.

Sicily’s capital city is a chaotic slightly unpredictable place with several cultural and social influences. Placed perfectly in the heart of the old city, you’re at the ideal jumping off point to explore and are just a few minutes walk from either side of Piazza San Domenico and the city’s main street, Via Roma.

A fascinating mix of Roman, Arabian, Baroque and Norman influences, the city is a melting pot of style and culture. The Vucciria, Ballarò and del Capo street markets are a must, as is the harbor and Foro Italico waterfront with it’s glittering yachts.

Lined with small beaches in along the Gulf of Mondello, the coastline also includes some of the best on the island including Mondello which is the largest and closest to the city center. Parking is limited and very restrictive in the old town but you’ll want to take your time and stroll.

Location

Bagheria, Palermo, Sicily, Italy. Nearest airport: Palermo (55km)

Best time to visit

Spring through Fall