Complex Sant'Anna

Atop a hill in the Tuscan countryside, an old farmhouse gazes onto sweeping views of the neighboring olive grove and stunning landscape. Under the guidance of Alessandra Cipriani, this once-dilapidated dwelling has been restored and redesigned into a modern Italian villa with fresh amenities and contemporary comforts. This is no truer than in the soaring, vaulted-ceiling kitchen. 

From the start of the renovation, Cipriani’s clients knew the appliances they wanted to include in their new kitchen. Nothing but the reliability and superior technical performance of Sub-Zero and Wolf would do. A Sub-Zero wine storage unit and side-by-side refrigerator nestle next to a Wolf built-in oven in one corner of the kitchen, while the Wolf induction cooktop and downdraft provide ample cooking surface on the back wall. With the refrigeration and cooking necessities in place, it was time to turn to the aesthetics of the design.

Seeking a modern look that also preserved the classic elements of an authentic Tuscan residence, Cipriani’s design restores and highlights the ancient craftsmanship of the original masonry. Pale exposed stone, plaster walls, and the commanding, brick, vaulted ceilings create a warm, muted palette. It is accentuated by luxurious stainless steel, polished countertops, and subdued gray timber joinery. The chandelier overhead adds just the right amount of modern, dramatic flair.

Awash in the light of the arched glass doorway that leads directly to the sloping lawn, the kitchen balances the old and new elements in a strikingly natural way. Cipriani has combined the best of both for a seamless design dichotomy. Now all that is left to do is enjoy every bit of la dolce vita this new, picturesque retreat provides.