Decorating & Design

December 4, 2012

Sardinian Villa

Quick — which Mediterranean island has white sand beaches, some of the oldest buildings in the area and fantastic sailing weather? I’m thinking of Sardinia, where history meets the 21st century in the fantastic Villa Sa Sarritta, off the western coast of Italy. Let’s get a taste of the island lifestyle.

These wide stone steps and stone turret are reminiscent of the prehistoric temples on the island. But it’s not all ancient history; the juxtapositions of glass railing and stone wall, lush lawn and planters of succulents and cool stucco against rough stone are strikingly modern.

Windowless stucco walls, a massive stone table and built-in shelves make the dining room feel like it was carved out of the hillside. The camp-style chairs look like they could be folded up and removed after a meal, adding a nice contrast to the rest of the room’s permanent feel.

Mint green walls, a glossy stone floor (possibly local Orosei marble) and subdued white bedding give this bedroom a soothing spa ambience. It might be a little more peaceful if it had a door, though, and those niches behind the bed are just begging for a few objets.

Bathing in this thick-sided, half-spherical bathtub must be like swimming in a handmade piece of pottery. The six-bedroom villa only has three bathrooms, but when they’re this fabulous, you hardly need more.

Any Mediterranean villa worth its salt needs a pool, and Villa Sa Sarritta delivers with this dramatically lit mini-lake. The covered lounge area is just one of several covered outdoor pavilions, including a barbecue area.

Ready to sail off to Sardinia? Margot Austin has found the perfect yacht in which to embark.

Photo credits:
1-5: ImmobilSarda