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STORY
Sicilian Stonehouse
Modica, Italy
The UNESCO heritage city of Modica founded in 1360 BC is placed on the southern part of Sicily, in the valley of the Hyblaean Mountains. Here, small streets nestle around the old Sicilian Baroque style houses, almost like a maze. Inside this maze, Paris-based designer, Cathy Dupont, fell in love with a century old stable that she transformed into a delicate holiday destination.
From a stable to a sanctuary
It takes 262 steps up the hill from the valley before you reach the small stone house. When Cathy Dupont first purchased the place, there were just four walls in poor condition surrounding a water-thirsty fig tree and an old bread stove – practically a ruin, but with a beautiful view of the basilica San Giorgio and the old town. What used to be both a home for families and a stable for their animals like sheep, goats and donkeys in the 1400s was rebuild from scratch with help from local architect Viviana Haddad – a specialist in restoration. After a full year applying for permission to begin the renovation and another year of hard work for the construction builders to get access to the pedestrian area, the tiny stone house was finished.
What's cookin'?
As a part of the simple, delicate décor, Cathy Dupont chose a Vipp kitchen of four units. “I love the matte black colour of the kitchen and that the dishwashing machine, sink, gas hobs and kitchen tap are a part of the design,” says Cathy.
Material matters
Original stone walls, Italian marble and steel make up a material mix that adds substance to a calming natural colour palette.
Shelf life
A duo of Vipp shelves match the kitchen in colour and materials. And the true italian coffeemaker is of course to be found here.
Meet the owner
A spontaneous trip with a friend to Sicily had Paris-based designer, Cathy Dupont, discover Modica. The authentic and rough atmosphere reminded her of her childhood in the countryside in France – a true contrast to her hectic Parisian lifestyle. Here, on the less touristy west-side of the city, where locals value slow living keeping sheep, growing fruits and vegetables and producing cheese, she feels at home.
Product Focus
Vipp table lamp
The Vipp table lamp is equipped with a pull string and a solid base for stability. An inside reflector guides the light straight downwards and the perforated lampshade adds a soft diffusion of light, making the table lamp suitable by the bedside or on a sideboard.
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