Abandoned Sicilian lighthouse gets a modern glow-up
The Brucoli lighthouse renovation is part of an extensive initiative to bring back to life historical structures across Italy, promoting their heritage as well as their future potential
The Brucoli lighthouse is nestled on one of Italy’s most charming and spectacular strips: between the towns of Catania and Siracusa, and on the outskirts of Sicily’s Val di Noto, it is surrounded by the sea on three sides and faces Mount Etna with spectacular views.
Built in 1911, the structure had been abandoned for decades before renovation works started in 2019 to bring the simple lighthouse and adjoined building back to life. The project was developed by Sicilian architectural studio Itinera: based in Caltanissetta, the studio has worked on several restoration projects both locally and elsewhere in Italy, working on churches and historical buildings. They developed this new project with special attention to the original building’s structural heritage, its archeological importance and its views across the sea. In particular, the studio also focused on using environmentally responsible materials and techniques throughout.
Inside, the compact century-old structure has been stripped back to create a contemporary, all-white interior that connects to the outdoors spaces, including a rooftop terrace. To accentuate the modernity and lightness of the space, the architects selected a series of iconic pieces by Italian furniture company Molteni. The company is no stranger to impressive interiors projects, having collaborated on tailor-made residential, hospitality, office and cultural projects worldwide.
Using both new and historical pieces, the project features harmonious interiors including the sinuous shapes of Gio Ponti’s D.151.4 armchairs upholstered in blue velvet and D.552.2 coffee table in the living area downstairs, as well as Rodolfo Dordoni’s sleek Fulham bed upstairs.
This project is part of an extensive initiative to bring back to life historical structures across Italy and promote their heritage as well as their future potential. The lighthouse’s updated structure and aesthetic are fit for its new life as accommodation for tourism and cultural purposes, and a welcome addition to the unique Sicilian landscape.
INFORMATION
Wallpaper* Newsletter
Receive our daily digest of inspiration, escapism and design stories from around the world direct to your inbox.
Rosa Bertoli was born in Udine, Italy, and now lives in London. Since 2014, she has been the Design Editor of Wallpaper*, where she oversees design content for the print and online editions, as well as special editorial projects. Through her role at Wallpaper*, she has written extensively about all areas of design. Rosa has been speaker and moderator for various design talks and conferences including London Craft Week, Maison & Objet, The Italian Cultural Institute (London), Clippings, Zaha Hadid Design, Kartell and Frieze Art Fair. Rosa has been on judging panels for the Chart Architecture Award, the Dutch Design Awards and the DesignGuild Marks. She has written for numerous English and Italian language publications, and worked as a content and communication consultant for fashion and design brands.
-
Aarke has created the ultimate collection for caffeine lovers, the Aarke Coffee System
The new Aarke Coffee System consists of three elegant components, part of the Swedish company’s ongoing quest to reshape the world of appliances
By Jonathan Bell Published
-
The breathtaking runway sets of S/S 2025, from beanbag animals to a twisted living room
Wallpaper* picks the best runway sets and show spaces of fashion month, which featured Bottega Veneta’s beanbag menagerie, opulence at Saint Laurent, and artist collaborations at Acne Studios and Burberry
By Jack Moss Published
-
Apple’s Alan Dye and Molly Anderson discuss the design of Apple Watch Series 10
In addition to the Apple Watch Series 10, Apple has also introduced a new black titanium finish for the premium Apple Watch Ultra 2; here’s what’s new
By Nick Compton Published
-
Naples Central Station boasts a wavy, wooden signature roof that is dramatic and sculptural
Naples Underground Central Station by Benedetta Tagliabue is a work of art that’s inviting and vibrant, matching its dynamic context
By Ellie Stathaki Published
-
‘Carlo Scarpa: The Complete Buildings’ is an essential tour of the Italian master’s works
‘Carlo Scarpa: The Complete Buildings’ is the perfect book for architecture enthusiasts
By Jonathan Bell Published
-
New Aesop Milan store is a haven of beauty and tranquillity
The latest Aesop Milan store to open is a hub of wellness, beauty and tranquillity in the Italian metropolis
By Ellie Stathaki Published
-
A new water mirror casts a misty veil over ancient Roman baths
Architect Hannes Peer reveals a water mirror in Rome – an immersive architectural installation at the heart of the ancient Baths of Caracalla
By Ellie Stathaki Published
-
Giovanni Michelucci’s dramatic concrete church in the Italian Dolomites
Giovanni Michelucci’s concrete Church of Santa Maria Immacolata in the Italian Dolomites is a reverently uplifting memorial to the victims of a local disaster
By Jonathan Glancey Published
-
Milan’s 10 Corso Como revamp nods to the concept store’s industrial character
Milanese concept store 10 Corso Como unveils its new look by 2050+, a stripped-back design that nods to its 20th-century character
By Ellie Stathaki Published
-
Carlo Ratti announced curator of Venice Architecture Biennale 2025
Carlo Ratti has been revealed as the Director of the Architecture Department at the Venice Architecture Biennale 2025, with the specific task of curating the 19th International Architecture Exhibition
By Ellie Stathaki Published
-
Floating infinity pool by Herzog & De Meuron at Lake Como is largest of its kind
Herzog & de Meuron creates the largest floating infinity pool in the world for Mandarin Oriental in Lake Como
By Lauren Ho Published