Trullo MiTa | STUDIO8 ARCHITECTS

In this project, our design team collaborated with local Trullo master craftsman Cosimo to create a vacation home for the Franco family, blending historical essence with modern design. Situated in the Valle d’Itria, this Trullo represents the rich traditional structure and profound historical charm that have made Trulli an emblem of the Puglia region. However, the project was not without its challenges, as bridging the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern design proved complex.

The Valle d’Itria in Puglia, Italy, is home to the iconic Trullo architecture—distinctive conical structures unique to the southern Murgia region. Spotting these structures instantly signals your arrival in Puglia. Trulli have existed for hundreds of years, though the oldest surviving examples date back only to the 16th century. This is likely because Trulli were typically built as temporary dry-stone dwellings, designed to be dismantled whenever necessary. This practice was primarily a way to avoid property taxes—imagine tax collectors arriving in Locorotondo, Alberobello, or Fasano only to find piles of stones instead of houses. Once the inspectors left, the Trulli were swiftly rebuilt, and the locals moved back in.

A typical Trullo has a cylindrical base topped with a conical roof made of limestone tiles. Despite the absence of cement, the thick white-painted stone walls provided cool interiors during summer and warmth in winter. The roofs were often adorned with protective symbols like the evil eye, crosses, or astronomical signs, capped with ornamental flourishes. The Trulli of Alberobello, recognized for their unique architectural features and historical significance, have been designated as one of Puglia’s two UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are well worth visiting.

While many Trulli are still inhabited by locals, a growing number have been transformed into luxurious holiday homes, often featuring swimming pools, making them a popular trend in recent years.

The Studio design team collaborated with local Trullo master craftsman Cosimo to create a vacation home for the Franco family, blending historical essence with modern design. Situated in the Valle d’Itria, this Trullo represents the rich traditional structure and profound historical charm that have made Trulli an emblem of the Puglia region. However, the project was not without its challenges, as bridging the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern design proved complex.

Cosimo’s construction methods were deeply rooted in tradition. He was well-versed in every step of the Trullo-building process but struggled to interpret modern architectural drawings. His approach relied on intuition and hands-on experience rather than the precise coordinates and annotations provided in contemporary plans. This disconnect initially stalled the project, as Cosimo was unable to align his work with the design team’s vision.

To overcome this hurdle, the Studio8 team explored various methods to establish effective communication and guidance. After prolonged adjustments and compromises, they devised an innovative solution: the designers worked directly on-site, using colored spray paint to mark specific construction points on walls and floors. This visual and intuitive method enabled Cosimo and his team to execute the design accurately without relying on conventional blueprints. Moreover, the designers patiently explained the concepts and ideas behind the design, helping Cosimo gradually integrate modern elements into his traditional craft.

During the construction process, the Studio8 team paid meticulous attention to highlighting the spatial experience of the conical roof and refining interior layouts. This approach preserved the historical characteristics of the Trullo while introducing modern comforts and aesthetics. Ultimately, the project resulted in a Trullo that retained its thick white stone walls and iconic roof while embracing the conveniences and beauty of contemporary living, breathing new life into this historic structure.

This collaboration not only marked a productive partnership between the BAHAN team and local artisans but also initiated a profound dialogue between tradition and modernity. The project demonstrates how historical architecture can be reimagined to meet the needs of modern life, creating exciting new possibilities for heritage preservation.