Nestled in the heart of the Tuscan countryside, Villa Ardore reintroduces itself with a renewed vision of understated elegance. Seamlessly blending its 16th-century roots with elevated modern features, the villa has emerged from a meticulous restoration. Led in collaboration with the owners by renowned architect Massimo Pierattelli and his team, the villa has honoured the soul of a traditional Tuscan farmhouse while reimagining its spaces for contemporary living.
With care and creativity at heart, classic proportions and old-world charm remain intact, enriched by five-star features such as floor heating, integrated air conditioning, high-speed meshed Wi-Fi, discreetly installed smart TVS hidden behind elegant-mirrored surfaces, and ambient LED systems and soft accent lights enhancing every mood.
The villa and its design – a promise of authenticity
The rooms at Villa Ardore are masterpieces of design, where elegance and comfort come together to create an unforgettable sanctuary. Each of the eight luxurious bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms has been curated to offer a perfect blend of classic Tuscan charm and modern sophistication – designed to meet comforts in each season of the year. With meticulous attention to detail, the bespoke amenities provide the highest level of luxury in a family home, such as floor heating, hidden ACs in each room, and mirrored TVs in common areas.
Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and rolling hills, allowing the natural beauty of the Chianti region to become an integral part of their stay. Every suite features tasteful furnishings, exquisite linens, and thoughtfully designed spaces with outstanding pieces of modern art – all sourced from artists based within 10 miles of the villa, overall inspiring a feeling of “home”.
At the core of the villa’s transformation are owners Stephen Lewis and Christian Scali, whose personal passion and hands-on approach have shaped the property into a true home-away-from-home. Every space is a reflection of their vision – from custom-designed furniture and handpicked textiles to original artworks curated in collaboration with La Bottega Gallery, featuring both Tuscan and international artists, adding soul and depth to every space. Each room tells a story through carefully sourced antiques, bespoke fabrics, and one-of-a-kind details gathered from artisan workshops, antique markets, and local studios.
Christian Scali says: “From the moment guests enter the estate, we want them to feel like they are coming home, not stepping into a rented property. Every detail has been chosen with care – from the linens on the beds to the artwork on the walls, not to impress, but to make guests feel comfortable and cared for.”
“Welcoming guests into a space where time slows down, where the luxury comes from the atmosphere as much as the amenities – this is exactly the kind of experience we set out to create”, – adds Stephen Lewis.
Curated Interiors and Artisan Collaboration
A key highlight of the villa’s evolution is its exclusive art and design collection. Textiles – including bedcovers, headboards, and table linens – are entirely bespoke and thoughtfully tailored to reflect the individuality of each room. More to it, this season, no two bedcovers are alike, adding a layer of personalised charm.
Even the ceramics hold a personal touch: the ceramic artist Nicoletta Penco, has hand-crafted the plates, bowls, and cups that guests use daily. As part of the exclusive experiences offered at Villa Ardore, Nicoletta shares her craft through on-site pottery classes, if desired by those staying at the villa.
Elevating Outdoor Living in 2025
This season, Villa Ardore has further expanded its outdoor spaces, embracing the Italian art of al fresco living. New features include expansive daybeds, outdoor fireplaces, fire pits, and a shaded pergola in front of the Roman spa, ideal for open-air massages, yoga sessions, and private spa rituals with views over the villa’s private vineyard.
An additional professional kitchen – located in the restored barn – serves as a hub for private events, cooking classes, and chef-led dinners, with direct access to a covered loggia designed for outdoor entertaining. Meanwhile, the main kitchen is a chef’s dream, boasting premium appliances, warming drawers, and a refrigerated wine cellar with world-class wines just next to the bar in the living room.
Every element of Villa Ardore’s redesign reflects a commitment to authenticity, comfort, and craftsmanship. From hand-carved pietra serena sinks to artisan-crafted Dorelan beds, the villa invites guests into a world where history is honoured, beauty is intentional, and every detail is deeply personal.
Though Villa Ardore welcomes guests year-round, the start of the summer season marks a fresh chapter for 2025—inviting travellers not just to stay, but to experience Tuscany through the lens of art, design, and heartfelt hospitality.
