Between Zen and Sicilian Baroque

In the heart of the historic center of Noto, the undisputed capital of Sicilian baroque, there is an independent house on two levels, each with its own entrance, that surprises with its unexpected identity: an interior design that intertwines zen minimalism and Mediterranean warmth. The spaces develop like a neutral canvas, declined in infinite shades of white, on which natural materials, dusty colors, and details of strong cultural value emerge. Everything revolves around a subtle dialogue between Japan and Sicily: Japanese essentiality meets Mediterranean sweetness, giving life to a luminous, harmonious space crossed by refined contrasts. The Upper Floor: light, suspension, and design The upper level opens into a large open-space that embraces the living room, kitchen, and dining area. Here, ancient and contemporary coexist with surprising naturalness. The heart of the room is the large suspended fireplace, around which a perimeter bench-sofa develops, a sort of "pit" that becomes the focal point of domestic life and a scenic observation point. The custom-made kitchen, exquisitely refined, plays with a shade of blush pink that recalls Mediterranean sunsets. The essential and geometric surfaces discreetly host integrated appliances, allowing the historic walls that surround it to breathe. At the center of the dining area stands a handcrafted marble table, inspired by Italian models of the '60s-'70s — a tribute to Mangiarotti's poetics. To complete it, a set of chairs by Kazuhide Takahama for Simon Gavina, light and iconic presences, perfectly in line with the oriental aesthetic that permeates the entire apartment. Above, a warm and soft light is diffused by the large rice paper chandelier by Isamu Noguchi. The lighting of the first floor is completed by two essential and functional circular wall lamps by Arteluce and the "Toio" floor lamp by Flos that illuminates the space with a discreet and directional light. The small bathroom on this floor, enlivened by a "Light" blue, houses original '70s sanitaryware; the tiles, while evoking the style of that era, are absolutely contemporary. The shower has a floor-level drain. The door is a sliding one embedded in the wall. The sleeping area is located in the loft, a nest suspended above the living area. The ceiling is characterized by its original reed canopy, creating a play of natural textures. Achille Castiglioni's Lampadina gently illuminates the space. The loft can be easily reconfigured: by rotating the bed, the area can transform into a TV zone, thanks to the socket connected to the satellite dish specifically prepared. From the upper floor, you can also access the open-air internal courtyard. Here, an outdoor shower, a wall lamp, and an electrical outlet find their place: an ideal space for reading, relaxing, or dining on summer evenings. A large flower box hosts a wisteria, which in summer provides shade to both the courtyard and the interiors. The windows and the front door facing the alley are made of iron, an exact reproduction of the ancient model, with internal shutters also in iron. The Lower Floor: intimate atmosphere and Japanese spirit A sculptural concrete staircase, inspired by Carlo Scarpa's rigorous geometries, connects the two levels. Along the descent, a single original '70s wall lamp by Tobia Scarpa for Flos diffuses a soft and directional light. The lower floor reveals a more intimate and quiet environment, with ancient stone walls and brick plastered with lime. Light filters through small windows overlooking the courtyard, creating a naturally fresh atmosphere, ideal for summer rest. The bathroom on this floor is inspired by Japanese water rituals. The masonry tub, built at floor level and covered in tiles, recalls the ofuro: higher, wider but shorter than traditional tubs, in an authentic '70s spirit. Here too, the door is a recessed sliding one to optimize space. The relaxation area welcomes an Eames Lounge Chair, adding an iconic note of industrial design. The lower floor's front door, which opens onto the alley, is also made of iron. In the small external alley, it is possible to hang a hammock and enjoy a corner of quiet outdoors. The furnishings are few and carefully chosen, following the logic of oriental minimalism, while the original elements tell the story of the most authentic Sicily.