The owner of this property near the Italian town of Ostuni wanted a modern building that wouldn’t feel out of place among the ancient olive trees that surround it. To this end, he recruited designer Andrew Trotter to blend the traditional architecture of local masserie with contemporary minimalism.
The result is a bed and breakfast that blends old with new – elegant lines with natural elements and rural simplicity. Recycled local sandstone, tufo, has been used throughout, and each room has a vaulted ceiling, with thick, cooling walls.
The structure is built around a central courtyard, and a lovely feature of the property is the high-walled private gardens filled with orange trees (on the left hand side of the house) and private terraces with views of the olive grove (on the right). There are many communal spaces that encourage community, including the living room, veranda, outdoor kitchen and barbecue, spa, gym and large pool. However, if you’re looking for solitude, there are plenty of cosy nooks too, both inside and out.
The property puts eco-design front and center, with recycled insulation that cuts back on the need for both air-conditioning and heating, windows that allow cross-ventilation, and solar panels that provide enough electricity and heat for the whole building.
The land, and other local growers, provide much of the organic produce that guests are offered for breakfast and at the communal table. There is also a 200-year-old stone oven that’s perfect for roasting locally-raised meats and fresh fish.
If you’re looking for a holiday home in Italy, this is one of the finest.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Air conditioning, heating, parking, fireplaces in suites, safe boxes, and organic body wash and shampoo in ensuite bathrooms.
AROUND
The masseria is located in the heart of Puglia, only 3km from the impossibly pretty white town of Ostuni. There are several beaches, such as Torre Guacetto, within easy reach, as well as the historic towns of Cisternino, Alberobello, Martina Franca, Lecce, and Polignano al Mare. The owners can help with restaurant bookings, visits to local workshops, and much more.
LOCATION
Ostuni, Italy. Nearest airport: Brindisi (15 minutes), Bari (one hour).
BEST TIME TO VISIT
March to November. Visit in October for the hotel’s olive harvest.
For other holiday homes in Italy and around the world, click here.
The post The White Hotel, Ostuni, Italy appeared first on Modern Vacation Home Rentals.