Villa Le Scale Residential Projects
Anacapri, 2002-2015
Behind the Gates : A Hidden Gem in Anacapri
Tucked behind towering limestone walls and elegant green iron gates, Villa Le Scale lies hidden among the winding alleys of Anacapri. This 19th-century estate, once home to the noble Monti della Corte family, is one of Capri’s few remaining historic villas. Its name—Le Scale, “The Stairs”—comes from the dramatic staircase that rises through lush gardens to the villa’s entrance, shaded by a pergola wrapped in blooming bougainvillea. From the top, sweeping views of the island and the Mediterranean sea unfold. The garden, though compact, overflows with life: fountains, sculptures, trees and flowers create a private paradise steeped in charm
A Villa with a Past : Preserving Historic Identity
Villa Le Scale’s legacy spans over 150 years. In the early 2000s, its worn-out condition called for a thoughtful restoration. Architect and Capri native Francesco Della Femina was chosen to lead this transformation. His mission was clear: preserve the soul of the villa while making it a livable, luxurious home. Working closely with the owner, he wove antiques—marble sinks, paneling, sculptures—into a contemporary yet noble interior. The original hand-painted black and white floor was saved, while the destroyed upper floor was redesigned with custom graniglia tiles, each room bearing its own unique pattern, bridging history with design vision
Architectural Sensibility : Rebuilding with Purpose
Respecting the villa’s architectural heritage, Francesco reimagined the layout with function in mind. He introduced a series of traditional Caprese vaulted ceilings—built by local artisans—and created six unique en-suite bedrooms, each with private access. Structural reinforcement was followed by delicate interior reconfiguration, all while overcoming Capri’s logistical challenges: narrow lanes, steep inclines, and limited access. Materials had to be hand-carried or transported by small carts. The result? A residence that is solid, sophisticated, and deeply tied to place and tradition, where every space is both beautiful and intentional in its design
Garden & Pool : A Landscape Transformed
The gardens of Villa Le Scale are a world of their own—intimate, abundant, and poetic. Francesco restored them without altering their soul: existing trees were preserved, and new vegetation carefully blended in. Winding paths and sculptural elements were added, including a Kneipp water walkway for therapeutic use. Perhaps most remarkable is the pool, seamlessly embedded in the landscape by repurposing an old cistern beneath the staircase. Rather than hide the stairs, Francesco kept them as a striking entry into the pool itself—turning a former flaw into a feature, and blending history with serene luxury. The introduction of the pool was indeed a masterpiece as looks like it was there since the villa was conceived and built, and at same time completely blended with the garden and the external areas.
A Living Legacy : The Evolving Spirit of Villa Le Scale
Today, Villa Le Scale continues to evolve. Its new owners, captivated by its elegance and story, invited Francesco once more to refresh select areas, they asked for updated furnishings for the living and dining spaces, carefully curated to respect the villa’s soul. Villa Le Scale remains a reflection of Francesco’s philosophy: timeless design rooted in place, history, and craftsmanship. From his studio in Naples, he continues to design interiors and create bespoke furniture, all handcrafted by master artisans. The villa, like his work, is a celebration of beauty, heritage, and the art of slow, thoughtful living
