This villa in eastern Italy is a labor of love by a woman from New York, who stripped it down to its limestone-clad structure and appointed every room with meaning and purpose.
Dating back to the early XIX-century, the home underwent a few unfortunately renovations that sealed its bones in plaster. It has since been removed, exposing gorgeous original wood beams and handmade bricks on the first floor. The doors are antiques that the owner purchased from local salvage stores, rescued from similarly-aged buildings in the area.
And that’s where the history ends and a fresh outlook begins. Complementing a neutral background palette and light summer textiles, the owner proves herself as an arbiter of good taste, mixing thrift-store finds and treasures gathered from all over the world with modern furniture from Gervasoni, Verzelloni and Eames, or custom designed by local artisans.
A Bulthaup kitchen is stocked with vintage pieces, as well as Alessi pots and coffee machines. There are Richard Ginori plates, but also a personal collection of antique glassware, carafes and cutting boards.
Iconic lighting art works have also been placed throughout, from Renzo Piano’s LePerroquet spotlights to a first edition Luceplan D7 Compasso d’oro lamp.
On the rolling hills outside, dotted with fruit and olive trees, a gorgeous, light-flickered plunge pool was built from the natural local stone (pietra esina), and the whole postcard of a place even offers views all the way to the towns of Cingoli and Valcarecce.
This is a rustic country paradise built for spending long hours outside, and watching the dance of the fireflies over the fields on warm summer nights.
A sister property to the villa is also for rent nearby.
Peter, September 29, 2020
Great villa and great location to relax and to enjoy the lovely region. We spent two really quiet weeks at Villa Cerka, which is wonderful decorated, kitchen perfect equipped, lots of space in- and outside. Made just a few half-day trips to Jesi, Macerata and Ancona, else we stayed at home, with great house wines from Cantina Bacelli next door, figs direct from the tree and fresh pasta, tomatoes, cheese and salami from the small supermarkets in the area. Highly recommend, great hosts and super fast communication.
Peter
Adrian, August 25, 2020
Wonderfully restored old building in peace and seclusion. We spent 10 relaxing days. Many Thanks!
Adrian