When creative Berliners Manuel Strebinger and Stefan Davids tell their story, it’s hard not to reach for that overused trope of ‘dream becoming reality’. But magic did happen three years ago when the couple discovered the exquisite Italian town of Nardò and, in the process, this Baroque residence they call Palazzo Ventidue.
Facing one of the most beautiful piazzas in the the car-free historic town, the property captivated them. No less, it was available. Just five miles from the ragged Puglian coast, it seemed the ideal project for luring visitors to this quiet, authentic, off-piste corner of ‘the heel’, otherwise known as Italy’s Salento peninsula.
Credit: Palazzo Ventidue
Credit: Palazzo Ventidue
Credit: Palazzo Ventidue
Credit: Palazzo Ventidue
Credit: Palazzo Ventidue
Credit: Palazzo Ventidue
Credit: Palazzo Ventidue
Credit: Palazzo Ventidue
Together, the couple sketched out a singular vision – to restore the home completely, furnish it with a contemporary edge and hire it out in its entirety, guaranteeing total privacy and exclusivity for guests.
‘We aimed to create a space that embodies both serenity and the vibrancy of Italian life,’ they say. ‘Palazzo Ventidue invites guests to indulge in a unique Italian lifestyle while relishing in the comfort of a contemporary retreat.’
Working with local artisans, they embarked on a year-long restoration that unearthed historic paint colours and original vaults. Remapping the floor plans and recovering old terraces, they ended up with 200 square metres of indoor living space and 150 square metres outdoors. A grand salone at the heart of the house has 6.5-metre star vault ceilings. The couple appointed it with a sofa and marble dining table that seats eight, the maximum number of guests.
Of the three bedrooms, one serves as a modern suite with two sleeping areas, a bathroom and a terrace room with panoramic views over Nardò. Another bedroom has sky-blue vault ceilings with large windows, a king-sized bed and an adjacent bathroom with balcony access. The third is located directly off the rooftop terrace, with a king bed and ensuite bathroom. The terrace, meanwhile, was reimagined as a vast communal lounge with an outdoor kitchen, shaded dining area and sunset deck.
The dine-in kitchen is located downstairs and flows out onto a balcony.
Last summer, Strebinger and Davids officially became hoteliers, offering Palazzo Ventidue to guests in its entirety from €480 per day. This summer, their exclusive retreat has become an established member of the community.
