There’s no doubt that a well-designed villa elevates the experience of your stay. Designed by some of Italy's most celebrated architects and interior designers, from Ricardo Rosi to Emilia Bonelli, our collection of design-forward villas goes beyond surface-level aesthetics. They are historic estates and private homes brimming with stories and legends from bygone eras, preserved with the intention of retelling those stories for generations to come.
From former 12th-century churches transformed into contemporary retreats to beautifully restored luxury farmhouses, these architectural masterpieces embody a slower, more intentional way of living that feels grounding and restorative.
Inside, original elements pay homage to each building’s history, slotting seamlessly within the natural environment. Interior design elevates the experience, adding texture, warmth and colour in unexpected corners.
Read on to explore our collection of luxury architecture and design-led villas in Italy.
Il Giardo: The Restored Luxury Farmhouse in the Heart of Chianti
Set among the undulating hills of Chianti Classico, a short drive from Greve, Il Giardo is a beautifully restored luxury farmhouse packed with history and oodles of charm. Florentine architect, Duccio Conti Caponi, went to great lengths to preserve the building’s bare bones through considered, light-touch interventions.
Inside, you’ll find reclaimed parquet flooring, restored wooden beams and handcrafted objets d’art that create a space that feels lived-in and full of character from the moment you arrive. Rare antiques, artworks and tapestries are a conversation-starter, imbuing the communal areas and bedrooms with an enveloping sense of warmth throughout.
Pieve di Ponsano: A Former Medieval Church Inspired by Wabi-Sabi Simplicity
It’s not every day you get to stay in a restored, 12th-century church turned Wabi-sabi-inspired villa. Restored by architect Emanuel Gargano into a property that is raw and minimalist in design, Pieve di Ponsano will appeal to admirers of the minimalist aesthetic.
The Japanese philosophy of embracing simplicity and imperfection runs throughout, expressed through exposed stone and wooden beams, clean lines and reclaimed materials used in creative ways.
Waltz around the interior to find a gallery-inspired display of custom artwork and bespoke furniture. Every item has been carefully selected by the architect, who used the interplay of light and shadow to create a sanctuary of calm.
Sartomare: A Sustainable Villa Designed for Families and Groups
Designed by the internationally-known Italian architect Piero Sartogo, Sartomare is an architectural marvel set within an expansive coastal estate in Maremma. Contemporary in style and boasting serious eco credentials, this family-friendly property has been designed to sit harmoniously within its natural surroundings.
Eclectic furnishings decorate the guest rooms, sourced and inspired by travels throughout the Middle East and Africa, from antique cabinets to hand-painted tiles. Light floods through the glass doors, bathing the interiors throughout the day. Outside, the manicured gardens are a vision to behold, created by renowned landscape designers Paolo Pejrone and Umberto Pasti to support local biodiversity.
Communal spaces have an indoor-outdoor feel, leading out onto a shaded terrace, showcasing panoramic views towards Monte Argentario.
Poggarone: A Secluded, Contemporary Villa in Val d’Orcia
For lovers of authentic, Tuscan design, Poggarone is a testament to the level of detail it takes to maintain the rustic serenity of Tuscan living. Milanese set designer and Dutch artist Edwin Vlassenroot transformed a charming Tuscan barn into the architectural delight you see today.
The result is a secluded retreat with open-plan living areas and industrial-style high ceilings. Though slightly more compact in size, the use of light gives the space and airy and calming feel.
Every detail has been carefully considered by Vlassenroot, right down to the eclectic mix of vintage 1960s rattan furnishings, Mexican textiles and wooden tabletops. A raw, stripped-back aesthetic runs throughout, pleasing design enthusiasts with a love of the rustic, pared-back look.
Tenute Poggiazzi: A Former Agricultural Estate Gently Restored by Ricardo Rosi
Design is central to your stay at Tenute Poggiazzi, where architect Ricardo Rosi oversaw the sensitive restoration of this 16th-century granary alongside acclaimed interior designer Emilia Bonelli.
On arrival, the intelligent climate-controlled interiors welcome guests with pleasant temperatures, while every detail is bespoke and made by local craftspeople – from the modular sofas to the travertine dining table in the pool house. The poolhouse is the social heart of Tenute Poggiazzi, designed with an open-plan dining and living area framed by glass doors that let in plenty of natural light.
Venture outside to discover the 17-metre heated infinity pool, which boasts sprawling views over the Montagnola Senese and Chianti hills.
Contact our Villa Specialists
From restored farmhouses in the Chianti countryside to former medieval churches tucked away in authentic Tuscan villages, each design villa in our portfolio is carefully selected for its character, charm and comfort.
From the moment you book, you'll enjoy access to our award-winning Concierge Service, which can recommend and arrange experiences across design hubs such as Florence, Siena and beyond. Tell our Villa Specialists what your ultimate villa holiday in Italy looks like, and let them take care of the rest.