I fell in love with the whitewashed truillis and the masserias in Puglia, and the olive groves. Inspired by this we were on a crusade to find a property such as Casa Olivetta that could be lovingly and sympathetically restored. An ancient stone lamia in Puglia, Casa Olivetta need a complete renovation from its state of disrepair. We stripped back everything, all the walls, grouted between all the bricks, and all services were required as there was no running water, plumbing or electricity. The rooms that we added were whitewashed in lime and the shutters painted in pale blue. We added a roof top area to be able to watch the sun go down across the Valle D’Itria and a swimming pool. Surrounded by fig trees and olive groves we created a sophisticated yet rustic home that has all the charm of Italian country living.

Photography by Paul Raeside.