Those seeking their own place under the Tuscan sun will be enchanted by Paradis Agricole, a boutique hotel in the heart of Tuscany. This sublime retreat is the brainchild of Point3architecture, a Paris-based architecture studio founded by Benjamin Macaire, Thibaut Julien and Victor Jauvin. Set within a rustic farmhouse dating to the late 1800s, the hotel is part of a 19-acre farm surrounded by olive orchards and cypress groves. The project’s design direction was inspired by the cultural and artistic heritage found in one of Italy’s most scenic regions as well as residences of the great Italian Renaissance.
The architects expertly mingled elegance and eclecticism in their pastoral haven. “We wanted to create a relaxing and timeless atmosphere in this green setting between the sea and the mountains,” says Thibaut Julien, co-founder of Point3architecture. “With only nine rooms, the hotel has a family and intimate atmosphere.” Each room overlooks picturesque gardens designed by celebrated landscape architect Jean Mus adorned with sculptures and contemporary art by Igor Mitoraj, Bernard Bezzina and Niccola Giannoni.
“We designed the reception areas like those of a large bourgeois villa with a multitude of lounges, a library, a billiard room and a huge dining table that can accommodate 18 guests. To give more character and authenticity to the place, we blended contemporary and vintage furniture,” Julien notes. Charming ceramic champignons from Bordallo Pinheiro sit atop the massive GOMMAIRE dining table.
A pair of midcentury Florence Knoll armchairs clad in burnt orange invite guests to cozy up in the library. “We wanted to keep the rustic atmosphere of the place while bringing comfort and modernity,” Julien explains. “We worked with local materials such as Carrara marble, terra cotta, whitewashed stone walls, wood and wrought iron to bring out the history of the area and give meaning to our architectural intervention.”
“Guests love the living spaces on the ground floor which overlook the garden and the swimming pool, as well as the collection of sculptures,” Julien says. “They also like the comfort of the rooms and the authenticity of the farmhouse.” Note the vintage Herman Miller rocking chair in this gracious guest room featuring exposed beams and stonework.
A feeling of getting away from it all is the essence of this picturesque retreat. “It’s a place to recharge and forget about the world outside for the duration of a stay. At Paradis Agricole, time stands still as guests are completely immersed in the spectacular panoramas of the countryside,” Julien concludes.
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Photography by Filippo Bambergh.
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