Trullo Mita Restores and Extends Historic Stone Trulli in Puglia
Set amidst a centuries-old olive grove in Italy’s Valle d’Itria, Trullo Mita is a holiday home designed by Studio8 Architects. This project thoughtfully renovates and expands three traditional stone-domed trulli, preserving their historic essence while introducing modern living spaces and a swimming pool. The result is a harmonious fusion of heritage and contemporary design.
The trulli, with their iconic white stone walls and conical limestone roofs, originate from the 16th century and are emblematic of the region’s architectural heritage. The site originally featured three weathered trulli and a stone house built about a century ago. Studio8 Architects undertook a sensitive restoration of the original trulli and complemented them with two new structures. By using stone from various periods, the design visually narrates the evolution of the site—what they describe as a ‘time gradient’—showcasing changing construction methods and the enduring skill of local craftsmen.
the overall integration of new and old structures | all images by Giulia Gallo Comunicazione
Studio8 Architects Integrates Historic Trulli with Modern Living
The main entrance is located within the century-old stone extension, serving as a connection between the historical trulli to the left and the newly added volumes to the right. New large windows punctuate the thick stone walls, bringing in natural light and enhancing the sense of openness. Inside, the layout distinguishes between preserved heritage areas and contemporary additions: the oldest trulli are dedicated to bedrooms, retaining their traditional character, while the new sections contain the kitchen, master bedroom, and communal spaces. The kitchen is equipped with a concrete island and stainless-steel workstation, and expansive glass doors open to vistas of the olive groves, seamlessly linking the interior with the landscape.
The restoration prioritized traditional Puglian masonry, employing mortar-free techniques for both insulation and structural strength. Studio8 Architects collaborated closely with local stonemasons, uniting time-honored craftsmanship with modern planning, including the use of spray-painted markers to guide construction according to the design vision. The estate preserves its natural red soil and features a pool that mirrors the surrounding olive trees. Both interior and exterior furnishings are understated, directing attention to the architecture and the spatial experience itself. Trullo Mita exemplifies the sensitive integration of historic architecture with contemporary design, providing a modern, functional living environment while honoring the unique character and legacy of Puglia’s trulli.
on one side of the extended stone house, the designers expanded and added two new building volumes
the arrangement establishes a ‘time gradient’ across the property, reflecting the evolution of building techniques
