This 120-acre farm in the countryside of Umbria in Central Italy had been dormant for 40 years prior to its acquisition in 1996. The owners from America have since developed an organic farm that includes a vineyard, olive and pomegranate trees, “ancient grain” wheat and a variety of household vegetables that are sold locally. The estate’s wines are marketed in Europe and in the USA.
In support of that, the structure is intended to house farm equipment, an office, and a gathering place where the wines, olive oil and flour can be sampled. This oval space has a continuous skylight at the intersection of roof and wall that creates a constantly shifting border of shadow and light. The atmosphere is intended to be sophisticated yet simple and rustic. In addition, the apartment unit above adds a luxury bedroom suite with commanding westerly views.
Since the estate is located within the boundaries of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, local regulations restrict the architectural characteristics of any new construction. Only a third of the exterior walls could be above grade. 50% of those exposed walls had to be clad with local stone. In lieu of the proscribed clay roof tile we choose to cover the roof with solar panels and appealed to the local building officials for relief.
