Info Progetto
Architetto: VALERIO ROMONDIA
Progetto: CASA CIVITA
Luogo: Vico del Gargano, Puglia
Anno: 2025
Categoria: Ristrutturazione
Immagini © Dario Borruto
In the heart of one of Italy’s most charming villages, a Apulian residence revives the value of memory and tells a story of authenticity, traditions and ties to the local area. There are places that seem to exist outside the flow of time, guardians of an identity that has remained intact over the centuries. Such is the case with Vico del Gargano, a small medieval village in the province of Foggia, in Puglia, where the rhythm of life still follows that of the seasons and local customs. Here, far from the hustle and bustle of city life, every street and every stone tells a story. The Gargano promontory is a land of many faces: lush woodlands, spectacular coastlines, sea caves and cultivated countryside coexist in a surprisingly varied landscape. Amidst the ancient trees of the Foresta Umbra, the high cliffs overlooking the Adriatic and the olive groves that shape the hills, Vico del Gargano emerges, perched on a hilltop and deeply rooted in its history.
In the Civita district, the oldest part of the village, a maze of narrow alleyways, stairways carved into the rock and ancient stone doorways takes visitors on a journey into the past. It is here that we find Casa Civita, a project by interior designer Valerio Romondia. The house is reached by crossing a small square and climbing a stone staircase that leads to the entrance. The designer’s aim was to create a constant dialogue between the house and the surrounding landscape, connecting the living spaces with the sea, the countryside and the natural environment of the Gargano.
Originally conceived as a private retreat, Casa Civita represents for Romondia a return to his roots and a place where he can rediscover a slower, more mindful way of life. Over time, this residence has become not only a family home, but also a welcoming space that attracts travellers from all over the world in search of authentic experiences far removed from the hustle and bustle of big cities.
The project stems from a desire to highlight the village’s organic heritage and to restore the places linked to the designer’s family history. For this reason, the project is based on a few essential principles: respect for the context, formal simplicity and the enhancement of the original materials. The stone walls have been restored to their authentic beauty, the lime plaster gently reflects natural light, and the wooden window and door frames preserve the building’s traditional character. The furnishings, understated and functional, help to create a welcoming and timeless atmosphere.
Every element of the house has been chosen to maintain a strong connection with the local building tradition. The stamped concrete floor evokes the rural atmosphere of the village, whilst Apricena stone features in the details of the kitchen and bathroom. The iron spiral staircase retains a deliberately minimalist, almost raw finish, which enhances its authentic character. At the heart of the living area stands the fireplace, constructed from large slabs of stone that have been minimally worked and assembled on site, reflecting a design approach rooted in the local tradition. The interiors evoke the traditional homes of Puglia, characterised by sturdy materials, craftsmanship and a beauty rooted in simplicity. The solid wood of the furnishings complements the Grottaglie ceramics, whilst the kitchen, with its large ceramic sink and white majolica tiles, evokes the homely atmosphere of homes of yesteryear, where conviviality was at the heart of domestic life.
Even the small terrace overlooking the village rooftops plays a special role. From here, the view stretches as far as the dome of the Mother Church and, on the clearest days, even takes in the outline of the Tremiti Islands on the horizon. It is an intimate and contemplative space, perfectly in keeping with the spirit of the house.
Today, Casa Civita welcomes guests eager to immerse themselves in the most authentic side of the Gargano. Walks in the woods, authentic flavours, local olive oil and time spent outdoors become an integral part of the experience. The house thus offers an invitation to slow down, to rediscover the value of the little things and to experience the local area in a profound and mindful way. A place where architecture, history and landscape intertwine, transforming living into a story to be experienced day by day.
OTHER
Text © VALERIO ROMONDIA
