Cozzo Coniglio

MAI Studio Designs a Modern Villa Dedicated to the Landscape

Just over a mile from the sea on several rambling acres of farmland, this holiday home in Sicily designed by London-based MAI Studio, is the epitome of simple elegance.

Gently adjusting to the sloping site, the house is designed entirely in dedication to the landscape, with a constant exchange between indoor and outdoor space.

Composed of geometric volumes linked by towers inspired by middle eastern wind catchers, the spaces are organized around an interior courtyard that unites each area of the house to its center, resembling the traditional farmhouses of the past.

The rooms – and the views - line up in a sequence of spaces and colors creating a dynamic and harmonious relationship with the setting.

Overlooking 360-degree views of the countryside, the house celebrates the sounds, colors and scents of Sicily.

Set on a hill facing the Mediterranean and adjacent to the Vendicari Nature Preserve, this newly built holiday home in Sicily is surrounded by almond groves with expansive views of the countryside and the Mediterranean.

Designed by London-based MAI Studio, the firm has translated traditional Sicilian architecture with a contemporary twist, organizing the interiors around a central courtyard allowing for plenty of space for entertaining and relaxing.  

Natural and locally sourced materials and colors were used to duplicate the look and feel of island homes and match the environment.

The interiors are spacious and airy, with separate but interrelated living areas that open out to the courtyard including a lounge, a large kitchen and dining area. 

There are six bedrooms that can accommodate up to 12 guests, all positioned to take advantage of the views.

The interiors successfully combine the modern with the traditional, with simple, understated furnishings and decor and a laid-back vibe.

The grounds are ideal for holiday fun in the sun with a large swimming pool, an outdoor lounge and dining areas, and space to spread out and relax in style.

Around

Immersed next to the protected and stunningly beautiful Vendicari Nature Reserve and just a twenty-minute walk to some of the best beaches on the island, you’ll have the best of both worlds. The reserve is located halfway between Noto and Pachino extending into almost four thousand acres of forests and undisturbed marine and bird eco-systems that open to a clear sea and long, golden beaches including: Tonnara, Eloro, Pizzuta, Calamosche and Marianelli (they are all easily accessible within a short drive or walk from the house).

The pretty seaside fishing village of Marzamemi is ten minutes drive and is well know for it’s seafood and the central Tonnara square, full of traditional restaurants and bars as well as its film festival in July.

Nearby Noto is a historic UNESCO World Heritage site with some of the most spectacular and elegant Baroque sites in the world and is one of the gems in the greater Val di Noto region along with its sister cities of Modica, Ragusa and Scicli, all reachable within a short drive. Make a day of it. 

The port town of Siracusa is a significant archaeological area with an ancient Greek amphitheater, the Orecchio di Dionisio Cave, Apollo’s Temple and the Teatro Romana ruins. Be sure not to miss the Ortigia neighborhood.

The Marina di Modica, Marina di Ragusa and the Andrea Doria promenade, feature some of the areas most popular beaches on the island including Sampieri, Pozzallo and Donnalucata. 

Location

Vendicari, Sicily, Italy. Nearest airport: Catania (94km), Comiso (78km), Palermo (323km) 

Best time to visit

Spring through Fall