Stefania Stera's Sardinian Residence Rises as a Majestic Monolith of Granite and Crushed Lava Stone

Stefania Stera Architectures recently unveiled a captivating project in Porto Cervo, Sardinia. A House in Sardinia emerges as a striking monolithic structure amidst the rugged landscape, blending seamlessly with the rocky massif and the expansive sea views that define its surroundings.

Design Philosophy

The genesis of this architectural endeavor stems from a desire to not only inhabit the land but harmonize with it, in line with Porto Cervo's ethos. Stera's vision revolves around creating volumes that enhance rather than detract from the natural setting. She emphasizes the interplay between the site and the habitat, where materials and craftsmanship imbue the residence with a sense of permanence and humanity.

At the core of the design philosophy lies an architectural promenade that seamlessly integrates with nature. The layout is guided by two axes-one facing the sea and the other the rocky massif-that intersect to create significant spaces and two distinct plateaus. These plateaus, experienced as ground floors, offer alternating access from the street, courtyards rich in volumes, and panoramic views towards the sea.

Reimagined Ground Floor

The reimagined ground floor level fosters a stronger connection to the water, enhancing beach access and garden utilization. A carefully designed cornice along the sea serves as a functional pathway while revealing and accentuating the site's coastal aspect. The unconventional organization of spaces encourages fluid movement, where one seamlessly transitions from one area to another, each enriching the experience.

Interior Spaces

Generous access points and thoughtfully framed vistas of nature define the interior spaces. The main entrance, accessed through a discreet door and reception area, leads to bedrooms on the ground floor and upstairs to the living room, dining room, office, and master suite. Caretaker's accommodation occupies the lower plateau, while the upper plateau boasts a living room open towards the sea and a small square nestled in the heart of the land.

Materials play a pivotal role in reinforcing the design concept of A House in Sardinia. Granite, brick, and marble directly connect with the natural environment, while ceramic elements imbue spaces with color and freshness. The external cladding, composed of granite and crushed lava stone, ensures volume continuity and water resistance. Inside, rough white plaster walls juxtapose with artisanal ceramic coverings, creating a dynamic interplay of textures and tones.

Attention to Detail

Stefania Stera's meticulous attention to detail extends to the interior furnishings, where wardrobes are conceived as living, free-standing elements adorned with woven fabrics and suspended shelves. These elements echo the inspiration drawn from Sardinian materials, further enriching the sensory experience within the residence.

In essence, A House in Sardinia by Stefania Stera Architectures is a testament to the symbiotic relationship between architecture and its natural surroundings. By embracing the inherent beauty of Porto Cervo's landscape and imbuing it with a sense of contemporary elegance, Stera has crafted a timeless retreat where the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living dissolve seamlessly.