- Architecture & development
- Outdoor & travel
The roots of the French architect Amelia Tavella lie in Corsica. The holiday home she was allowed to rebuild here in the bay of Ajaccio, was a true passion project. The result has also captured our hearts!
The original house on this location was built in the 1950s, but was in need of renovation after several years of vacancy. Architect Amelia Tavella, who herself comes from the region, was in charge of the renovation, but made sure that the soul of the house was not lost. ‘I believe in the memory of walls, in the way it leaves its mark on a space. This is the story of the fun you had to find here,’ says Tavella. What contributes enormously to this is, of course, the environment: the sea, the beach, the rocks, the intrusive nature. The result is a holiday home that in its simplicity radiates relaxation, cosiness, harmony and beauty. ‘It is the quintessential vacation home, the one that haunts my memory of happy childhood evenings, when the night embraces the day and beauty is a celebration,’ adds the architect. 
An important factor that determined the architecture and the interior is, of course, nature. It is truly unique here and, according to Amelia Tavella, the environment is not an obstacle in her process, but rather an invitation. Nature invades all her projects and also in Casa Santa Teresa the architect builds on this story that has already been written. Architecture should be an extension of it, not an amputation. 
“Nature invades my projects.”
Thanks to the open living plan and the use of pivoting doors, alcoves that create extra depth and as few partition walls as possible, you can enjoy the light, nature, views and tranquility that reach deep into the house. Interior and exterior are in constant dialogue with each other, something that is also emphasised by the windows placed in wooden frames and the railings made of rope. 
For the interior design Tavella was inspired by the illustrious Mediterranean resorts. She opted for a neutral palette of colours and materials. Noble and natural materials blend stylishly with the white walls and ceilings and accents in shades of orange, red and turquoise provide a cheerful yet elegant touch. The residence is about 400 square meters and has five bedrooms, each with its own bathroom. The 'al fresco' dining area on the ground floor gives access to the heated swimming pool and from here you can reach the rose-coloured sandy beach via just a few steps. We have found our ideal holiday destination! 
Photography by Thibaut Dini