In the heart of the Emilian hills, among rows of vines and centuries-old architecture, Villa Manodori returns to new life thanks to a conservative restoration and functional reinterpretation project signed by the DC | EF studio. An integral part of the project to enhance the historic Roncolo 1888 complex, now transformed into an elegant Boutique Relais, the 17th-century villa presents itself as a refined balance between respect for memory and attention to contemporary detail.
The project, led by Davide Conconi and Elisabetta Fulcheri, approached the redevelopment with a sartorial and philological approach: the original spaces were maintained, respected in their configuration, and carefully adapted to the new needs of hospitality. Common spaces and suites were created on the ground floor and first floor, while the second floor was entirely redesigned to accommodate four new rooms, with a focus on functionality and spatial coherence.
One of the most significant aspects of the intervention was the restoration of the original frescoes, present on walls and ceilings, which guided the entire design process. The detailed chromatic analysis of the ancient plasters in fact formed the basis for the selection of finishes, materials, and internal palettes, creating a visual and conceptual dialogue between the old and the new.
The environments are characterized by a custom-made furniture project, integrated with contemporary design pieces and illuminated by iconic lamps, carefully chosen to enhance the historical proportions and amplify the perception of space. Every detail is designed to harmonize past and present, offering a refined and immersive living experience, where each room becomes a story of style and history. A virtuous example of hospitality architecture, capable of preserving the identity of the places by enhancing it through a measured, attentive, never invasive design language.
DC | EF – Davide Conconi and Elisabetta Fulcheri Architetti Associati
Founded in Milan in 2018, the DC | EF studio is born from the synergy between Davide Conconi and Elisabetta Fulcheri, long-time friends and collaborators. Their work ranges from architectural design to the care of furniture details, always guided by constant dialogue with the client, attention to light and material, and the definition of unique environments, tailored to those who will live in them.
For more info: www.dcef-studio.com
CREDITS
Project: Villa Manodori
Architect: DC | EF – Davide Conconi and Elisabetta Fulcheri Architetti Associati
Location: Quattro Castella (RE), Italy
Year: 2022
Photography: Simone Furiosi
