ITALY, TUSCANY, AREZZO, STIA

This farmhouse has been painstakingly restored. What was once a landmark ruin is now a luxurious home with every modern convenience. Nothing has been spared to ensure your total comfort.

This farmhouse is constructed of stone and terracotta, typical of Tuscany. The floors throughout are laid in interesting patterns with beautiful hand made terracotta tiles. The beams are of Tuscan chestnut. The house has been lovingly restored for modern living while preserving all the charm and historic style that characterise the homes of ancient Tuscany.

Living room - This is a very large room with antique fireplace, two sofas, several comfortable overstuffed chairs, and a large desk area. Many special antique pieces accent this space as well as original art and artifacts gathered throughout local markets and shops. There are double French windows at each end of this luxurious but comfortable room that open onto the terraces that surround the house. There is state-of-the-art T.V. (satellite), stereo, and DVD player- all with Dolby Surround Sound. Throughout the house, special attention has been paid to lighting so one can create the perfect atmosphere for the moment at hand.

Adjoining the living room room is a dramatic red marble bath room with large custom tile shower.

The handcrafted chestnut doors lead into the centre of the house. The broad entrance hall is flanked on each side by graceful arching doorways that open to the kitchen on the right and the living room on the left. Straight ahead is the stairway that leads to the upper floor and the bedrooms. To the left of the stairs is a 250 year old door salvaged from the original structure.

Inside you will find a large kitchen outfitted for the most ambitious chef. It comprises a large refrigerator with icemaker, an oversized oven, commercial 5 station stove top, dishwasher, deep sink, and custom designed food prep areas, all executed in stainless steel and marble. The owner is a consummate Italian cook and you will find every pot, pan and accessory to be state of the art. There is a beautiful antique sideboard filled with china, glassware, flatware, and serving pieces.

Behind the kitchen is a large cellar used as a pantry/laundry room with double doors opening onto the side terrace. This is a good catch all room for baggage etc. There is a modern washing machine and a clothes line in the orchard.

The door on the right at the top of the stairs leads into the spacious master suite. The owners have spent much time and effort to make this the perfect place to retire after yet another perfect day in paradise. The views from the two oversized windows truly make one feel that the world is at your feet.

The giant headboard (queen-size+) is created from centuries old barn doors of solid chestnut. There is a desk/dressing table, a comfy chaise, and of course a large antique wardrobe with drawers and ample hanging space.

The master bathroom adjoins the bedroom through another set of smaller antique barn doors. In this space you will find every detail attended to for your convenience and total comfort. Large square double sinks set on a thick slab of black marble, beautifully laid tile accented with marble mosaic. Furthermore, it has an oversized bath tub with moveable shower, and of course toilet and bidet. Adding even more drama to this suite, double door/windows open onto a separate covered terrace where you can enjoy some private time or escape down your own stone stairway and into the woods for a romantic morning or evening walk.

At the top of the stairs is a spacious landing where there is a small desk with internet connection. This secluded spot is the perfect place to e-mail friends back home or keep in touch with your office, if you must. There is a large window with yet another breathtaking vista. In this area you will also find the linen closet.

This bed room is where the owner's daughter resides when she is in Italy. Every room has breathtaking vistas but, without a doubt, this one rules the roost. Her interest in all things Middle Eastern is evident everywhere. The rich colours and exotic patterns give reference to the influence and importance of eastern traders to early Italy. A blackamoor's hand holds the sheer beaded drape over a wrought iron bed (queen+) decorated with pillows and cover of lush silks and velvets. This room is also furnished with an antique Tuscan armadio large enough to store the belongings of the most fashion conscious couple.

There is a roomy loft above the third bathroom, accessed by way of a wrought iron stairway. There is a fold out sofa (double) and sufficient storage for two more people. It is a great retreat for reading or catching up on correspondence.

The bathroom here is shared by the two bedrooms on this side and is between them. While not as large as the master bath, it is every bit as charming and luxurious. The tub with moveable shower is flanked with marble and tile. A beautiful long vanity, also of marble, and the toilet and bidet complete the amenities.

This bedroom has a large window overlooking the garden and woods. The focal point is an exquisite hand painted metal bed made in Tuscany 150 years ago. The bed (queen-size) is flanked by ornately carved chests and is accented with convenient lighting for reading. There is a comfortable chair and desk, and oversized antique armadio for ample storage. This bedroom has a tranquil and serene atmosphere and will offer its guest peaceful repose at the end of the day.

Across the front of the stone house is a covered terrace. This is the perfect place to have a morning cappuccino, watch the world unfold before you and welcome another day in paradise. In the evening it is your spot to rest with a glass of wine after a day of excursions and sightseeing, or dine alfresco at night.

The house is wrapped with a broad stone terrace that offers many places to take advantage of the Tuscan sun and our amazing vistas or escape to find a shaded spot for a nap or to relax with that book you have been meaning to read. Every ground floor room has large double door/windows to open to our luscious breezes and to blend the interior with all the beauty outside. The bank of the front terrace is planted with roses and flowers indigenous to this area, and a herb garden for the kitchen. In front of the house to the right is an old walnut tree, another perfect option for dining There is plenty of outdoor furniture including chaises for sunbathing. Behind the house is the orchard and beyond that the woods and trails await your exploration.

Stia 5km

Property Feature

* herb garden
* orchard
* original features
* restored
* terrace
* Views