Portofino boasts some of the most stunning Villas with exceptional seaviews in Italy. The vistas are only surpassed by extraordinary elegant and stylish interior designs. As shown here with Villa Badia redesign by Architect Serena Mignatti and Villa Beatrice transformed by Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, as part of the Splendido Hotel in Portofino.
Villa Badia - Portofino
The Liguria region in northwestern Italy holds hidden treasures that extend far beyond the famous tourist villages of Portofino. One of these jewels is Villa Badia, a unique architectural masterpiece nestled between the iconic Portofino and the picturesque Rapallo. This property represents a perfect sanctuary, set apart from the world’s hustle and bustle, where history, nature, and contemporary design converge, offering guests breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea and an exceptional living experience. Architect Serena Mignatti oversaw the villa’s redesign. Her clients aimed to add a touch of poetry to their vacation home, which was built in the 1950s and had undergone some irrelevant alterations over the years. They envisioned a flexible space that could accommodate multiple generations of family and friends. Their goal was to create a Mediterranean retreat, easily reachable on weekends, that could be enjoyed in any season, providing an escape from metropolitan life. The villa’s intricate architectural elements have been thoughtfully incorporated into the scenic landscape, successfully merging contemporary design with features from the estate’s original historical era.
The estate, encompassing 4,300 square feet, was constructed in the 1950s and exemplifies the bourgeois architectural style of that period. The renovation sought to preserve the integrity of the original structure while incorporating refined enhancements, as described by the owners, and carefully maintaining its authentic character. The architects' principal objective was to design a residence suitable for the entire family with the intention that it be passed down through generations, thereby adding lasting value to the property.
The design process extended beyond the renovation of walls and ceilings, encompassing a thorough effort to reestablish the property's identity. All original furniture was preserved and thoughtfully repurposed to achieve harmony between historical elements and contemporary requirements. This approach demonstrates both the designers’ and owners’ commitment to honouring the villa’s heritage while adapting it for modern functionality.
The villa features an outdoor swimming pool by Piscine Castiglione that blends into the sea, creating an illusion of endless water. Surrounding gardens add privacy and tranquillity. Mignatti notes the villa's impressive scale and harmonious setting, with sea and hillside views, offering dynamic vistas from every window. Villa Badia provides a unique sensory experience, blending history and modern design in a tranquil natural setting. It's ideal for families seeking peace or architecture enthusiasts who appreciate authentic yet innovative style within Italy's captivating landscape.
Villa Beatrice - Hotel Splendido
Reimagined by the Martin Brudnizki Design Studio, Villa Beatrice is an exquisite gem located a short stroll from Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino. Following a careful restoration, this villa—the first in Belmond's portfolio—offers guests a chance to enjoy the serene spirit of a private hideaway with stunning Mediterranean views. Built in 1913 and designed by acclaimed architect Gino Coppedè, the villa features an impressive blend of Art Nouveau and Gothic Revival styles. It was originally created for Ligurian entrepreneur Attilio Odero as a summer retreat.
Today, Villa Beatrice includes a 24-hour butler, chef, yoga instructor, and personal trainer, with a main terrace that accommodates up to 30 guests. Coppedè's imaginative design incorporates intricate details, such as stucco work and frescoes, setting it apart from typical villas and making it a unique symbol of glamorous Italian living. Inspired by the area's heritage and the Villa itself, Brudnizki's designs incorporate local auction finds and artisan-crafted items. Bedside tables inlaid with Vienna straw honour the iconic Chiavari chair, valued for its lightweight nature. Ceramics from Albisola Superiore serve as lamp bases and decorative plates, while the surfaces feature scagliola, a Baroque technique that mimics the appearance of marble and stone. The Villa’s colour scheme is inspired by Portofino’s traditional greens, terracottas, yellows, and pinks. “Our goal was to make guests feel truly welcomed into a beloved family home,” Brudnizki explained, “with every detail reflecting the villa’s story.”
Villa Beatrice, a century-old residence located above Punta Caiega, offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Tigullio and direct access to the sea. Surrounded by lush gardens, the villa features four suites, spacious lounges, a main terrace, a rooftop turret, a bar, a plunge pool, and a private beach entry. The estate features La Casetta, a stone guesthouse with an additional bedroom, an outdoor plunge pool, a pergola, and a sun terrace. Guests enjoy exclusive privacy yet are just a short walk from Splendido’s restaurants, bars, and Italy’s first Dior spa.
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