Set on a 75 acre estate only a few miles from the Adriatic coast, Masseria Petrarolo is a stunning 17th century farmhouse converted into an exquisite modern retreat. Sleeping up to 16, the Masseria has eight en-suite bedrooms (including one with an outdoor bathtub), three kitchens, a hammam, children’s play area, drawing room and dining room. Outside, the property is surrounded by picturesque olive and almond groves, and is home to a restored Airstream caravan, small chapel and herb garden. The Masseria is staffed and a private chef is available on request.
Having undergone four years of extensive renovation, the family-owned Masseria Petrarolo showcases a breath-taking blend of contemporary style and rustic luxury.
Originally constructed to offer protection from Barbary raiding pirates, this former 17th century fortified farmhouse has been meticulously restored by a team of architects, designers and local craftsmen including renowned design studio Alexander Waterworth Interiors, whose previous high-profile projects include Annabel’s and High Road House in London.
Presented with the brief ‘Soho House meets Southern Italy’, the team began their task whilst the property was still a working farm with cattle kept inside the Masseria. Keen to preserve as many of the building’s original details as possible, the designers ensured that features such as weather worn doors, cattle troughs and exposed brick walls remain, creating a harmonious contrast with the more modern elements of the design.
Showcasing wonderful attention to detail, the Masseria’s high vaulted ceilings and textured walls provide the perfect backdrop for the rustic-luxe décor. Spread over two floors, each of the eight bedrooms enjoys a unique feel, some with open fireplaces, others with roll-top baths, French doors and stone floors.
Equally attractive, the Masseria’s living spaces feature a blend of antiques, many sourced from Italy, bespoke modern pieces and talking points such as the 25 foot long table in the dining room. Sourced from trips throughout Italy and Istanbul, many artifacts reflect the Masseria’s unique Moorish and Turkish-influenced architecture.
This exquisite attention to detail is as evident outside as it is inside with atmospheric shaded terraces and elegant pools including a stunning rooftop swimming pool reached by a romantic candlelit staircase. In the beautifully landscaped grounds, old meets new with a restored Airstream trailer and a small chapel dedicated to Santa Maria delle Grazie, which is still used by the local community for weekly mass.
Not just a uniquely designed property, Masseria Petrarolo is also an utterly captivating one celebrating the Puglian landscape, architecture and spirit. Masseria Petrarolo sleeps up to 16 people and costs from €11,500 per week. www.masseriapetrarolo.com