A SIMPLE MASTERPIECE

Set in the hills of Tuscany, this sublime villa was decorated in a pared-back manner so it would beautifully coexist with its surroundings

- VIVIENNE AYERS

SITTING ROOM

Considered details, like how the black metal beams and lighting link with the metal-framed doors, give the rusticity of this space elegance. Table, Ochre. Floor lamp, Serge Mouille. White armchair, Minotti. Rug, Kvadrat

LIVING SPACE

Arched doors in the sitting room open to a spectacular view of the terrace, swimming pool, and hills beyond

Appearances can be deceptive, and none more so than in the case of this extraordinary holiday home in Tuscany, encircled by breathtaking views. Built a mere five years ago, the stone property could easily be mistaken for a centuries-old farm worker's cottage. The architects, Isabel Lange and Matteo Zen, worked hard to create authenticity by researching the local vernacular and implementing the period features of old Tuscan villas, such as arched doorways, wooden ceilings and doors and exposed stone walls.

Step inside and the interior, designed by Munichbased interior designer Stephanie Thatenhorst, is surprising too. A deliberately minimalist aesthetic firmly places the emphasis on natural materials such as stone, wood and terrazzo and complements them with muted colours, resulting in a wonderfully calm and serene atmosphere.

DINING AREA

Colour is kept to a minimum but when it 1-60 does appear it pops out beautifully against the serene palette. Table, custom-made. Turquoise bowl, Bitossi Ceramiche