Casolare Scarani House by Studio Andrew Trotter: A Timeless Puglia Renovation

Nestled in the serene countryside of Carovigno, Italy, Casolare Scarani House is a masterful restoration by Studio Andrew Trotter, completed in 2023. This project celebrates the region’s architectural heritage while seamlessly blending modern comfort and craftsmanship. Originally constructed as a girls’ school, the building embodies the elegance of a traditional masseria but with the scale of a charming villa, offering a unique residential experience.

The journey began years prior when a friend in Barcelona introduced the idea of relocating to Puglia. During a drive toward Carovigno, the architects stumbled upon this captivating structure, recognized as one of the houses previously shared online. The property, abandoned since the early 1960s, presented both historical significance and architectural potential. Its rich past, combined with the intimate scale and characterful details, made it a rare gem in the Puglian landscape.

The renovation process focused on preserving the original patina and historical features while enhancing functionality for modern living. The exterior stone portico was carefully revealed by scraping away years of weathered paint. Inside, artisanal lime plaster and lime paints restored walls with authenticity, while original stones were meticulously repositioned. The floors were upgraded with new chianca, perfectly matching the old flooring, maintaining the house’s rustic Italian charm.

Transformative spatial interventions allowed the home to meet contemporary needs without losing its heritage. The old garage was converted into a spacious kitchen with a courtyard, while the stone oven was repaired to maintain its traditional character. A former donkey house was transformed into a functional laundry room. Two additional blocks were added to the rear, creating en-suite bathrooms for the ground-floor bedrooms, while the upper floor was reimagined as a master suite. Star-vaulted ceilings and a grand fireplace define the living room, with the dining room elegantly placed in the former stable.

Casolare Scarani House exemplifies a sensitive balance between preservation and modern adaptation, where each architectural intervention respects history while enhancing daily life. The collaboration between architects, homeowners, and skilled artisans resulted in a timeless Italian residence that embodies warmth, craftsmanship, and heritage.

All photographs are works of  Salva López