STUDIOTAMAT has reimagined a private villa nestled among the rolling hills of the Castelli Romani, situated between Grottaferrata and Frascati, just steps from the historic Villa Grazioli, into a timeless modernist retreat. Originally built in the 1960s, the villa was inspired by the Usonian architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright, featuring clean lines, a simple layout, and natural materials that blend harmoniously with the surrounding landscape. Conceived initially as a vacation home, its strategic location allows the current owners—Daniele, Sara, and their three daughters—to enjoy the serenity of nature alongside the conveniences of metropolitan life due to its proximity to Rome.
STUDIOTAMAT embraced a design philosophy focused on preserving the villa’s original architectural elements while introducing creative solutions to intensify the symbiotic relationship between interior and exterior spaces. Authentic materials, including stone walls, exposed brick, wood, and concrete, were preserved and reinterpreted through juxtaposed elements that celebrate natural light. The internal layout was redefined for smoother connections throughout the house, achieved by removing most of the corridors and some smaller utility rooms.
Matteo Soddu, co-founder of STUDIOTAMAT, explained that the renovation (400 sqm indoor area) was “a balancing act” designed to deliver “stimulating and relaxing spaces in equal measure”. The project meticulously preserved the villa’s historical essence, notably through the restoration of the original beech wood door and windows. Bespoke craftsmanship is evident at the entrance, featuring a custom-made wardrobe lined with L’Opificio’s “Viceversa Monet” fabric and elegant Tanganika walnut trim. Furthermore, original architectural details inspired new furnishings; specifically, a central rhomboid motif from the original 1950s ironwork inspired the design of the kitchen windows and the upstairs study.
The ground floor is symmetrically organized by the villa’s striking elliptical staircase, which is visible from the entrance. To the east, the living room features a stone wall that anchors an integrated fireplace in the conversation area. The furniture selection blends vintage pieces with design icons, such as the 1970s Marenco sofas by Arflex which define the TV zone. To the west lies the 40-square-meter American-style kitchen. It is dominated by a custom-made island in Persian Red Travertine, fully equipped with a cooktop, integrated hood, and teppanyaki plate. The kitchen is gently separated from the dining room by a full-height, powder-coated glass partition. The dining room features Marcel Breuer’s Cesca chairs by Knoll alongside a special edition table from Punto Zero’s “Big” collection, whose high-gloss lacquered finish amplifies the room’s natural light.
Upstairs, the first floor hosts the bedrooms. The flooring consists of oak parquet laid in a “sister” pattern, connected by a continuous cream-colored resin path. Central to this floor is the study, a sanctuary of light and inspiration featuring a custom glass wall, large window, and a ceiling painted in Tuscan Red from Little Greene. The daughters’ rooms reflect their personalities with custom wardrobes and beds upholstered in L’Opificio cotton velvets, set against Disney Home wallpapers. The shared vanity area between two bedrooms, featuring Valdama sinks, is distinguished by walls clad in tiles from Cristina Celestino’s Tivoli series for Fornace Brioni, creating a stylish transition.
Finally, the top floor features a loft space, providing breathtaking views of Rome. This area is dedicated to relaxation and entertainment. Terracotta rubber flooring by Artigo defines a cinema and game area, offering a cozy, laid-back atmosphere perfect for family time during the winter months.
STUDIOTAMAT successfully created a seamless dialogue between the villa’s original spirit and a modern architectural language. This sensitive design approach honors the villa’s historical identity while reinterpreting it with a fresh, authentic voice, allowing the spaces to come alive for their residents.
