massimo iosa ghini completes eco-sustainable villa in salento
all images courtesy of cosmo laera

 

 

 

salento, italy is a countryside escape in the midst of nature, age-old olive trees and maritime pines. a secret and fascinating landscape only a few kilometers from the sea, it’s also home to a new dwelling designed by italian architect massimo iosa ghini. the villa integrates itself within the land, adopting techniques and materials held dear by local artisans and builders. arranged on a single level on a plot of around a hectare, the masseria influenced construction combines both interior and exterior living elements.

massimo iosa ghini villa salento italy designboom
the structure helps support the tree, and will eventually provide shade to the deck 

 

 

 

a large outdoor patio is the defining feature of the residence, made further noticeable by a large acid-treated wooden structure. simply a frame now, it will eventually act as a support structure to an existing tree on-site. also on the deck area, are tailor-made chairs, crafted tables, and a perfect place to hang a hammock. large glass windows function as a natural transition from indoors and outdoors. on the opposite side, an open kitchen, dining, living space six meters long provides a place for the family to relax and hangout. four bedrooms, each with a bath, are spread out surrounding the central expanse.

massimo iosa ghini villa salento italy designboom
wooden structure with branches leaning against top 

 

 

 

the home utilizes as many local materials as possible. chianca stone is used for outdoor paving, porcelain stoneware for interior surfaces, acquarica tuff for façade cladding, lecce stone for interior fireplace, and dry-stone for the renovation of an on site pajara —  which is now the guesthouse. passive and active control techniques were considered: sunscreens, low-emission glass, a green pergola, and solar panels all make the home more sustainable. the roof is accessible via an external staircase, and leads to panoramic views of the countryside, sea and, at night, the endless starry sky. 

massimoiosaghinidesignboom02
outdoor lounge

massimo iosa ghini completes eco-sustainable villa in salento
open living room and kitchen space 

massimo iosa ghini villa salento italy designboom
guesthouse bedroom  

massimoiosaghinidesignboom01
tucked away entrance 

massimo iosa ghini completes eco-sustainable villa in salento
small guest house located next to the main residence  

massimo iosa ghini villa salento italy designboom
patio with central tree 

 

 

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

 

edited by: nick brink | designboom