Interno
The objective was to create simple interior spaces reflecting the same character as the exterior restoration of this vernacular rural dwelling. We have lived in and enjoyed these spaces for 2-1/2 years surrounded by farmland and with our view toward the Sibillini Mountains.
LIVING ROOM/SOGGIORNO
Kitchen-Dining/Cucina-Sala da Pranzo
Many small remote churches have lost most of their architectural character but remain picturesque ruins. Others are being carefully restored for future generations.
A complex
A barn
Two Barns
Churches large and small were historically scattered across the countryside. Some are in various stages of ruin while others have been restored. Many are very beautiful.
Casa della Cieca was occupied again on 22 May 2007 for the first time in over 35 years. Living in this simple casa colonica for the past seventeen months has allowed us to absorb not only the rich Marchigiana culture and landscape but also the friendly and caring people of the region.
Seasonal photographs
Spring/primavera : [...]
Finale
Warm dry mid-January weather permitted final site grading, the planting of a small orchard of apricot, pear, cherry and two fig trees ( albicocco, pero, ciliegio e fichi ) and the sorting and stacking of excess building materials.
Electricity was activated and a wood stove ( stufa a legna ) installed. A stove, refrigerator and washing machine ( fornello, frigorifero [...]
Nearing completion
Construction commenced in May 2006 and was substantially complete by November 2006, a time lapse of only six months. Credit for the achievement is due to Paolo, il capomastro. Paolo blends his knowledge of traditional construction techniques with an understanding of contemporary requirements and needs. He is also a very hard worker. The result has [...]
Demolition by neglect
Vernacular buildings were normally well constructed and of sound materials but become increasingly fragile if not cared for over extended periods of time.
This casa colonica was beginning to deteriorate because the clay mortar binding the stones was rapidly being eroded. In a few more years the walls would have become unstable and fallen. I chose to [...]
Small rural parish churches ( le pievi ) are also fragile vernacular structures. A few remain in periodic use…………
……others remain vacant and slowly deteriorate.
The documentation and preservation of vernacular architecture has been a focus of my career as an Architect. My practice in New England included both the restortion of high style buildings and the adaptation of more utilitarian structures for new uses. This interest has now been transfered to Italy and initially the region of Le Marche where I have recently [...]