Casa DabùResidential Projects
Anacapri 2010-2012
A dream retreat : choosing the place
In 2010, a Neapolitan couple set out to find a peaceful retreat far from the chaos of daily life. Their dream was clear: a space that felt modern yet warm, simple but never rustic—where the ocean could be felt, seen, and celebrated. Tucked into the hills of Anacapri, they found a forgotten 1930s hideaway overlooking the Bay of Naples. The charm of the site, combined with its seclusion and breathtaking views, made it the perfect canvas for their vision: a refined sanctuary, deeply rooted in the local landscape yet open to innovation.
Vision into form : concept and architecture
To bring their dream to life, they turned to architect Francesco Della Femina. His concept embraced the surrounding beauty: south-facing walls were demolished to create full-length glazed windows and doors, flooding the home with natural light and inviting the sea inside. Every room was designed to face the water, blurring boundaries between indoors and out. The result is a single-story, whitewashed Caprese villa—modern in line, traditional in soul. Clean volumes and fluid transitions express an architecture that is both contemporary and timeless, integrating seamlessly into the landscape of Anacapri
Living the space : interiors with purpose
The interiors were crafted with intention: open, flowing, and functional. The living, kitchen, and dining areas occupy one wing of the house, while the bedrooms and bathrooms rest at the opposite end. Each room opens onto a continuous terrace that spans the full length of the villa, overlooking the sea. Natural stone floors from Puglia, cut to custom shapes, run inside and out, reinforcing the sense of unity. Soft tones dominate the palette, accented by vibrant textiles, greenery, and curated artworks. The design reflects Mediterranean ease—open, breezy, and intimately connected to nature.
Discreet technology and smart bespoke design
Technology and design are seamlessly woven throughout the home. A smart touchpad system manages lighting, music, and security. Custom-designed furniture by Della Femina maximizes space without sacrificing style. The Tablock dining table transforms into a sculptural block when chairs are folded in, while the kitchen conceals appliances behind sleek cabinetry. Even the air conditioning is hidden within the wall. Every detail was considered to reduce clutter and enhance livability. High-tech elements are present but never overpowering, allowing the villa to remain serene, sophisticated, and above all, tailored to modern life
Light, materials and timeless balance
The villa’s charm lies in its delicate balance of contrasts—contemporary furnishings coexist with 18th-century ceramics and antique vases. Sculptural lighting in brass, iron, and ceramic adds a tactile warmth, while white traditional ceilings reintroduce authentic Caprese character. Outdoor lighting is subtle, preserving the purity of the night view. Materials were chosen for their elegance, lightness, and practicality—perfect for both warm summers and humid winters. One striking feature is “Cubing”, a suspended brass sculpture with integrated LED lighting. Here, design serves both beauty and comfort, creating a home of understated Mediterranean luxury
