Bold in its solidity and expressiveness, and modern in its simplicity and use of natural materials, this holiday home in Sicily took years to emerge from idea to completion. It was designed by Paris-based Lankry Architects, and the firm sought to amplify the relationship between the landscape and the human interaction with it, insisting on using the best local artisans to make it a reality. From the three years it took for the iron worker to handcraft the grand staircase to the expertly crafted stonework and cast concrete framework, this painstaking project strikes a balance between traditional conventions and contemporary design.

Composed of three minimalist cubes stacked in overlapping angles and coated in local colors, the house is embedded into the existing slope, coexisting with the site and making the most of the amazing views. It's a modern homage to Sicilian tradition, and a stylish place of relaxation and contemplation designed to enjoy its beauty.

Built into an existing slope overlooking the island and the Mediterranean, this holiday home in Sicily is settled into a privileged spot among the olive and almond trees, with views out over the island and the sea. To maximize its footprint in the landscape, the house is divided into several volumes of three irregularly stacked blocks, the first of which unfolds like a pedestal embedded into the walls of a natural agricultural terrace.

The entrance is accessed from the middle story, from which each of the lower and upper floors is connected via a monumental steel staircase. Each block space is placed on top of another to create naturally shaded areas and lined with balconies and generous terraces to take in the views. 

The ground floor includes a large living room, American-style kitchen and dining area, with direct access to the pool, while the first floor includes a second living room and one en-suite bedroom. The upper floor includes a large master suite with a private balcony and a third en-suite bedroom.

Oversized sliding or tiltable windows and scarce partitioning bathe the interiors in sunlight and alternating views from each room, making the link between nature and living space fluid and unhindered, while allowing for a contemplative place of relaxation and immersion into the land.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Optional cleaning services and staff available during stay, Wifi throughout, cable TV, iPod docking audio system, kitchen and bath amenities, laundry facilities, private parking.

AROUND

Only a mile away, 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. Wander through to view the famous cathedral, the ancient marketplace, the theater, and the city’s best restaurants and cafes.  

The protected and stunningly beautiful Vendicari Nature Reserve is just a 30-minute drive to some of the best beaches on the island, including Lido di Noto and Avola. The reserve is located halfway between Noto and Pachino extending into almost 4,000 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.

Don't miss the port town of Siracusa and Ortigia, a significant archaeological area with an ancient Greek amphitheater, the Orecchio di Dionisio Cave, Apollo’s Temple and the Teatro Romana ruins.

The pretty seaside fishing village of Marzamemi is a 30-minute drive and is well known for its seafood and the central Tonnara square, full of traditional restaurants and bars as well as its film festival in July.

Forty minutes south, The Marina di Modica, Marina di Ragusa and the Andrea Doria promenade, feature some of the area's most popular beaches on the island including Sampieri, Pozzallo and Donnalucata.

LOCATION

Noto, Sicily, Italy. Nearest airport: Catania Fontanarossa (85km).

BEST TIME TO VISIT: May to the end of October