Abandoned since the 1950's, the 18th century stone farmhouse - near the junction of Tuscany, Umbria and Lazio - was in ruins when the owners stumbled on it. But they could see that the location was truly magical. To maintain the spirit of the house they used local crafts people and indigenous materials, yet they also wanted to add the ultramodern chiq. The floors throughout are terra-cotta, handmade from local clay, and the locally sourced chestnut ceiling beams, while new, were cut by hand to resemble the originals. The walls are washed in an off-white organic water-and-lime base paint, and all of the windows and doors were crafted locally. The owners combined these time-honored architectural elements with beautiful design furnishing. The clean and simple decor exudes an air of quiet luxury that suits the house's purpose. The kitchen revolves around an oversize island, from there French doors lead out to a loggia where an exterior wood-burning fireplace and a grand table. A perfect place that invites guests to linger. Large sofas face each other in the living room, providing plenty of lounging room for all. A nearby library offer two daybeds for quieter times.

Podere Palazzo at a glance:

• Accomodates: 10 + 2 people
• Bedrooms: 5 (4 with king beds, 1 with 2 twin beds)
• Bathrooms: 4.5 (3 en suite)
• Heated Pool: 5 x 13 meters (16' x 43')
• Maid Service: midweek and final cleaning included
• Fireplaces: 3 (2 indoor, 1 outdoor)
• Amenities: Central Heating / Washing Machine & Dishwasher/ Internet and Telephone/ TV with Satellite & DVD Player / Stereo, MP3 Player & Built-in Sound System

The grounds encompass four acres carved out of several hundred acres of sheep pastures and woods. An old existing pond south of the house was restored to become a restful and shady oasis with hammocks for relaxing on hot summer days. A newly planted olive grove, with over 60 plants right beneath the pond, restores Podere Palazzo’s former agricultural glory and beauty. Cypress and elm, wild pear and apple trees, wild plum and rose bushes define the driveway from the main road. The pool is built with a double infinity edge to allow for the full enjoyment of the surrounding views. It measures a generous 5 x13 meters [16 x43 feet] and has a comfortable shallow area for children and non- swimmers. It is flanked by a large stone patio with comfortable sun beds for tanning, reading, or napping.