In the picturesque town of San Michele Salentino, Italy, EV Signature has undertaken a remarkable renovation of a historic complex of four trulli and three lamie. Aptly named Glass Tree, this project represents the pinnacle of blending contemporary design with traditional architecture, creating a space that is both timeless and innovative.
The trulli and lamie structures are iconic to the Puglia region. Trulli, with their conical roofs and dry stone construction, are marvels of ancient engineering, providing excellent insulation against the intense Italian sun. Lamie, with their sturdy stone builds and vaulted ceilings, were similarly designed to offer a cool haven from the heat. EV Signature’s renovation celebrates these unique architectural elements by preserving and integrating them into the modern design, ensuring the historical essence of the original structures remains intact.
Central to the Glass Tree project is a stunning modern living room encased in a fully transparent structure framed with Corten steel. This innovative design feature allows natural light to pour in, illuminating the interior and offering uninterrupted views of the scenic surroundings. At the heart of this space stands an ancient olive tree, a living symbol of the project’s name, representing the seamless blend of nature and architecture. The use of Corten steel not only provides a sleek, contemporary aesthetic but also complements the rustic charm of the historical stone structures.
EV Signature’s design philosophy emphasizes the dissolution of boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. Extensive excavation and landscaping have created a spacious courtyard that serves as the heart of the complex. Large pivoting windows blur the lines between the interior and exterior, providing views of the swimming pool and inviting year-round enjoyment. This thoughtful integration of spaces ensures that the modern living areas are easily accessible to guests, while the bedrooms, nested within the trulli, offer private retreats with direct entryways from both the inside and outside.
The interior spaces of the Glass Tree project reflect a meticulous balance of luxury and authenticity. Bathrooms and kitchens feature unique elements such as sinks and islands crafted from locally carved monoliths. These pieces, with their exposed edges, exude a sense of opulence while maintaining the heritage vibe of the site. The sunken bathtub evokes the ambiance of a Moroccan or Turkish hammam, enhancing the sense of luxury and relaxation. To maintain aesthetic consistency, local stone is showcased on parts of the walls, meticulously restored to their former glory. Other areas are treated with organic lime wash and rustic plaster, achieving a polished yet historically resonant look.
In other architecture news, check out the Bioclimatic Contemporary House by Indy Architectes.