restoration revives luigi walter moretti's modernist villa saracena in santa marinella

Exploring the Iconic Modernist Design of Villa Saracena

Villa Saracena stands as a notable example of modernist architecture by Luigi Walter Moretti, renowned for his designs including the Foro Italico in Rome and the Watergate Complex in Washington DC. Situated on the cliff of Santa Marinella near Rome, the villa overlooks the coast of Capo Linaro. The structure embodies Moretti’s Parametric Architecture philosophy, evident in its meticulous attention to detail, from the unadorned concrete walls to the intricately designed floor majolicas. This spatial composition extends, stretching textured surfaces that open toward the horizon and sea. Originally designed as a reinterpretation of a holiday home, the villa presents three independent buildings that stand visually and spatially interconnected through a narrative path. A cylindrical volume takes center stage, as it appears floating above ground.

all images © Francesca Pompei

RESTORED Villa Saracena through FRANCESCA POMPEI’s lens

The sculptural composition seamlessly integrates architecture, interiors, and gardens into a unified art form. Villa Saracena’s open forms emerge from the green gardens surrounding the structure. The design engages in an interplay of openings and closures while maintaining a consistent volumetric continuity. Recently restored by architect Paolo Verdeschi, the private residence’s interior now features furnishings by Gio Ponti, adding to its understated elegance and reviving the original atmosphere. Francesca Pompei‘s photographic lens captures modernist Villa Saracena.

independent curved building stands in the garden of the villa

Villa Saracena’s cylindrical volume appears floating above ground

Acapulco chairs adorn the terrace aligned with the horizon

polished tiles on the ground floor reflect the light and seascapes

the ground floor of Villa Saracena enjoys views of the garden

the villa undergoes careful restoration by architect Paolo Verdeschi

main spiral staircase connects the residence’s living areas

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Acapulco chair on the first floor

Gio Ponti's furniture pieces

fireplace on the ground floor

project info:

name: Villa Saracena | more here
architect: Luigi Walter Moretti

restoration: Paolo Verdeschi

location: Santa Marinella, Italy

photographer: Francesca Pompei | @fpompei_architecture_photos

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom