Renovated 1911 lighthouse in Sicily with pieces from Molteni

The 1911 structure was discreetly renovated by Studio Itinera

(Image credit: Benedetto Tarantino)

last updated 29 August 2022

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The Brucoli lighthouse is nestled on one of Italy’s most charming and spectacular strips: between the towns of Catania and Siracusa, and on the outskirts of Sicily’s Val di Noto, it is surrounded by the sea on three sides and faces Mount Etna with spectacular views.

Built in 1911, the structure had been abandoned for decades before renovation works started in 2019 to bring the simple lighthouse and adjoined building back to life. The project was developed by Sicilian architectural studio Itinera: based in Caltanissetta, the studio has worked on several restoration projects both locally and elsewhere in Italy, working on churches and historical buildings. They developed this new project with special attention to the original building’s structural heritage, its archeological importance and its views across the sea. In particular, the studio also focused on using environmentally responsible materials and techniques throughout.

Inside, the compact century-old structure has been stripped back to create a contemporary, all-white interior that connects to the outdoors spaces, including a rooftop terrace. To accentuate the modernity and lightness of the space, the architects selected a series of iconic pieces by Italian furniture company Molteni. The company is no stranger to impressive interiors projects, having collaborated on tailor-made residential, hospitality, office and cultural projects worldwide.

Using both new and historical pieces, the project features harmonious interiors including the sinuous shapes of Gio Ponti’s D.151.4 armchairs upholstered in blue velvet and D.552.2 coffee table in the living area downstairs, as well as Rodolfo Dordoni’s sleek Fulham bed upstairs.

This project is part of an extensive initiative to bring back to life historical structures across Italy and promote their heritage as well as their future potential. The lighthouse’s updated structure and aesthetic are fit for its new life as accommodation for tourism and cultural purposes, and a welcome addition to the unique Sicilian landscape.

glass top coffee table and arm chairs — The interiors have been stripped back to create a contemporary space, furnished with pieces by Italian furniture company Molteni. These include the sinuous D.151.4 armchairs by Gio Ponti, upholstered in blue velvet and the Italian architect D.552.2 coffee table, both in the living area downstairs

lighthouse surrounded by sea — The lighthouse is surrounded by the sea on three sides and faces Mount Etna with spectacular views

white bedroom interior — Upstairs, Rodolfo Dordoni’s sleek Fulham bed is the focal point of the lighthouse’s bedroom

lighthouse outdoor space — The all-white interiors connect to minimal outdoors spaces

INFORMATION

farodibrucoli.com

Rosa Bertoli was born in Udine, Italy, and now lives in London. Since 2014, she has been the Design Editor of Wallpaper*, where she oversees design content for the print and online editions, as well as special editorial projects. Through her role at Wallpaper*, she has written extensively about all areas of design. Rosa has been speaker and moderator for various design talks and conferences including London Craft Week, Maison & Objet, The Italian Cultural Institute (London), Clippings, Zaha Hadid Design, Kartell and Frieze Art Fair. Rosa has been on judging panels for the Chart Architecture Award, the Dutch Design Awards and the DesignGuild Marks. She has written for numerous English and Italian language publications, and worked as a content and communication consultant for fashion and design brands.

With contributions from

Benedetto Tarantino - Photography

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