House in the 'Florence of the South'
Set in five acres of land in the heart of the Puglia countryside, close to southern Italy's answer to Florence, is this stylish villa


The fertile fields of the heel of Italy's boot, Puglia, are scattered with farm houses (masserie) and large dry-stone conicles known as trulli.
A predominantly agricultural land, it is known as the bread basket of Italy and produces some of the country's finest olive oil, sun-ripened tomatoes and citrus fruit as well as fine Salento wines.
This British-owned masseria is suitated in 5 acres of land, close to Lecce, a beautiful baroque city which is thought to be the southern answer to Florence. Built of the local pietra-Leccese, it is divided into two buildings set within a courtyard. The infinity pool made with white pearlescent mosaic sets of the setting and there's an outdoor kitchen for entertaining al fresco.
The main house has 3 bedrooms and there is a two-bedroom guest house for overflow. All bedrooms have spectacular star shaped stone vaulted ceilings, antiqued marble floors and handmade wooden shutters. 'The masseria's interior is modern classic in design with a careful mix of antique and modern furniture. Sympathetic to the buildings construction, the use of natural materials are used throughout,' explains owner Claire Simpson, an interior designer.
€1.385 million through Hamptons International Italy (+39 06 688 928 70)
Exquisite houses, the beauty of Nature, and how to get the most from your life, straight to your inbox.
-
Alan Titchmarsh: 15 years ago we planted a hedge — today, it's 10ft tall, 6ft deep and a joy throughout the year. Here's how we did it
15 years ago, Alan Titchmarsh planted a hedge; today, it's 10ft tall, 6ft deep, he and his wife absolutely love it, 'and so do all the creatures with whom we share our garden.'
By Alan Titchmarsh Published
-
At the Snowdon Summer School, the future of design lies in the traditions of the past
'It was the first time that I had ever been around people who shared my interest in making furniture at such a high level — and who shared my passion for fine furniture.'
By Giles Kime Published