Created as refined getaway where friends could gather in easy luxury during lockdown, this gorgeous home overlooking Lake Como came together at the hands of an energetic young, architectural duo. With the eyes of design professionals and most importantly, the spirit of active travelers, the two sought to create a space where life can be experienced to the fullest, where details, flavors, customs and curiosities come together in a signature experience of dolce far niente, or deliciously luxurious slow living. And this villa for rent in Italy is the result.

Hospitality takes several forms, and for the couple behind the renovation of this Lake Como property, dolce far niente, or taking time… time to delight in beauty, travel and discovery, is of utmost importance.

Both architects, the couple are avid travelers, and in their lakeview villa they’ve created a refined residence where life is to be experienced fully through attention to detail, a passion for design and their curated personal collections.

Their design inspirations—Chinese porcelains, 1970s era rattan, designer sconces and lamps—are on full display within the villa’s original plaster walls, updated thoughtfully by a bright coat of natural limewash paint. The home’s regal, original Moltrasio stone staircase has been retained to show off the gorgeous patina of time. A garden terrace now holds a dark-bottomed pool to mimic Lake Como’s deep waters beyond, and the villa’s furnishings are soothing and streamlined, exuding an easygoing luxury and comfort. The villa hangs on a rocky ledge overlooking Lake Como and offers dramatic views from every window and door.

Bedrooms and bathrooms are elegant, comfortable and subdued, painted deep gemstone hues and furnished minimally with vintage finds and personal artwork. Beds are laid with crisp linens, and each of the four, large guest suites features a private bathroom and unique, distinctive styling. The villa’s kitchen is minimal yet modern, with a marble countertop, backsplash and hood. The living, den and dining rooms all present as bright, sun-lit spaces, artfully furnished with deep sectionals or glittering chandeliers, and benefitting from wide arches with privileged views across the ebony lake and surrounding mountain silhouettes.

AROUND

Set a few steps from the heart of Torno, a cinemaworthy, narrow-laned community on Lake Como’s eastern shore, this villa for rent in Italy is located within one of the region’s most charming and authentic villages. The villa offers dramatic views of the lake and is constructed above the water, set high on a rocky bluff. You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into an Italian silver screen classic as you sip a sunset cocktail at the local bar, sneak into the Santa Tecla and San Giovanni village churches, or climb the pathway from Torno up to the mountain village of Montepiatto, with its famed Pientra Pendula outcropping and sweeping lake views. 

Nearby Blevio is home to the lake’s top watersports outfitters, Bellagio is known as the “pearl of Lake Como,” and Torno is an ideal base for those who love trekking and tranquility just outside of the bustling town of Como, which is less than 10 kilometers away. Torno’s waterfront harbor was once a thriving fisherman’s spot, and the town thrived in the Middle Ages, when textile and wool merchants built their mansions overlooking the lake.

LOCATION

Torno, Lake Como, Italy. Nearest airport: Bergamo (60 miles)

BEST TIME TO VISIT: March to October