The Perfect House

One of my favorite Christmas presents this year was “The Perfect House“.  This is an elegant, charming memoir/travel diary by architect Withold Rybczynski chronicling his week spent living in the Villa Saraceno, built in the 1540s, and still standing tall, as well as his visits to ten Palladian villas in the Veneto region of northeastern Italy.

Mulling over the intriguing idea of the Perfect House, and what this means, I considered also the various villas, in five regions, in our own portfolio.

And thought that one in particular could represent The Perfect House.

Which in my terms, for use as a rental, would mean a house with warm, considerate owners with sensibilities like yours, to greet you on arrival, and who in their manner are discreet, never overbearing and available for questions small and large.

The Perfect House must have a remarkable siting, with views — over vineyards, or olive groves, or to an architecturally interesting town.

There must be no traffic noise or busy road nearby to disturb your peace.

The house must be historic, converted with sensitivity and sophistication into a restoration that balances the integrity of traditional elements, such as oak-beamed ceilings and vaulted terracotta ceilings, with modern comforts, including outstanding bathrooms and a private pool.

Interiors must be furnished with comfortable seating and an interesting collection of local antiques and artwork.

As the kitchen is the true heart of any Italian home, the kitchen must be a delight to anyone who cooks.

Outdoors there must be plenty of space to dine beneath the stars or to find a quiet corner to relax privately or curl up with a book.

The garden must be a highlight, with flowering plants, fruit trees and/or vegetable and herb gardens.  The pool must be set on its own terrace, with pergola or umbrellas for relaxing or dining.  And everything must be so charming and enjoyable that you may find it hard to go sightseeing.

The location must be ideal for exploring – in immediate proximity to at least one interesting town, and that town must have excellent food shopping options plus at least one Insider’s favorite restaurant. Other cities, towns and sites must be readily accessible allowing for a week’s worth of adventures with minimum train or driving time.  And finally the house must be one that is lovely for all seasons such that you will be as happy indoors as you will in the garden or pool area.

In 2012 we are happy to introduce you to many of our favorite villas, including this, our symbolic Perfect House, which straddles the Tuscany, Lazio and Umbria regions (a splendid position), is new to our portfolio (its very first season) and could not be more special. The villa sleeps eight and the weekly price in high season (May 15 – September 30) is 7000 Euro, around $9150, inclusive of daily housekeeping, a delicious welcome dinner and all utilities.

If you would like us to propose this or some other Perfect Houses to you, please complete our no obligation travel survey and we shall be quickly back in touch with detailed ideas for your review.