What is the name of your accommodation?

Villa Lilly

Could you introduce yourself and share a bit about your life, such as your interests, hobbies, or background?

The owner of the house, a hardworking woman, has built a career in sustainability within the built environment. Her little son, William (named after his grandfather Willy), is an essential part of the Villa Lilly story, just like her mother, Lili.

Villa Lilly is a story about family, about dreams, about the search for sustainability in life. The owner, a dedicated entrepreneur, has always been in search of the true meaning of life: the balance between professional challenges, self-care, family, physical needs, and mental peace. When she was nine years old, she made a promise to her mother, Lili: that she would become “rich” so she could buy her mother a house by the sea.

Her mother, Lili, was a strong woman with clear opinions, who managed to build a professional career while raising three children on her own. The family didn’t have much, but their occasional holidays at the Belgian coast were sacred. It was there, by the sea, that she promised her mother she would one day give her a house by the sea, to offer her serenity.

How did your property become part of your life? When did it happen, and what inspired or motivated you to take it on? 

The owner of Villa Lilly has lived all over the world but lost her heart to Italy. Of course because of the wine, the food, the sun, the culture, the fashion, the heritage, and the language, but above all because of the people. She didn’t just find a country, she found a community: generous people who welcome you into their hearts and never let you go, stubborn sometimes, passionate, proud, and rightly so.

In her company, she applies the concept of “job crafting,” tailoring the job to the person, and in her life she lives by the idea of “life crafting,” discovering what she truly wants from life, finding balance, choosing the right ingredients, and trying to make it all work. This is how she discovered the concept of the Blue Zones, rare places in the world where people live longer thanks to key lifestyle elements.

That’s how she discovered Sardinia, where her love for Italy aligned with her search for meaning and tranquility. In Europe, there are only two Blue Zones, Sardinia and a Greek island. She’s not only seeking longevity but meaning, how to let our soul, mind, and body rest and regenerate. That’s how her dream took shape, finding a place of serenity, balance, and a different way of life.

What was the process of creating your property like? Are there any sustainable or eco-friendly applications associated with your property that you are proud of?

The house naturally had great charm, a fantastic view, wooden elements, architectural curves, the organic staircase blending seamlessly with the large fireplace and the built-in sofa. You can clearly see the hand of a good architect.

However, the house had never been renovated since it was built and felt somewhat outdated. As an engineer-architect specializing in sustainability, it was obvious to me that a sustainable yet luxurious renovation was the way forward. Everything authentic was preserved, but the kitchen and bathrooms were completely redone, and the electricity, paintwork, and finishes were upgraded.

Since William was only one year old at the time of purchase, safety was also a priority. The renovation was done in collaboration with a modern interior architect from Cagliari and Milan, who created beautiful mood boards and supervised the entire project. Everything was done in Italian, luckily I spoke the language.

Local craftsmen were involved throughout. Thanks to my expertise, there was a strong focus on sustainability, only demolishing what was necessary, using non-toxic, local materials, and installing an energy-efficient heat pump and boiler. The next phase will include a swimming pool, improved landscaping, solar panels, a battery, and a charging station.

What makes your property truly special to you? Do you have any favorite spots, cherished memories, or personal touches that make it dear to your heart?

Torre Delle Stelle itself holds great value. It’s a village with a strong sense of community, where houses have stayed in Italian families for generations. It’s not a tourist hotspot, which preserves its authenticity.

The view, 200 degrees of sea panorama, is simply exceptional. I’ll never forget the first night in Villa Lilly, the full moon shining straight into the bedroom, the sea glowing under its light. The sound of the waves, the view, the feeling, it was pure magic.

Another favorite spot is the rocks between the portico and the garden. We often stand there to feel the sea more intensely, our feet grounded on the warm stones. We feel like kings and queens. Under the portico is where the magic happens, William loves to play there, children run around, we’ve danced under the sprinklers, shared countless aperitifs at sunset, done morning yoga with Barbara, and sat by the fire during the cooler seasons.

How would you describe the atmosphere and interior of your property?

An ideal mix between authentic Sardinian architecture and modern design. The house feels warm, with earthy tones and natural materials, yet remains bright and airy thanks to the open windows and wide sea view. The minimalist layout and simple floor plan create a sense of calm. Each piece of furniture was carefully chosen for its place, contributing to the overall concept: contemporary design meets authenticity.

What motivated or inspired you to rent your property to guests?

This place is magical. Every time we come here, alone, with family, or with friends, it has a special effect. The sea, the light, and nature immediately bring calm and connection.

The Sardinian food, the people, and the energy inspire. You can feel the Blue Zone, you can feel the vitality. Because of my busy job, I can’t be here often, so I wanted to share this place. The peace and rejuvenation that Villa Lilly brings, I wanted others to experience it too.

What can guests expect when staying at your accommodation? Share the experience, the highlights, and perhaps the best compliment you’ve received from past guests.

Guests describe it as “a magical place,” “fantastic views at any time of day,” “peaceful,” and “a beautiful house.” We’ve only been open for one summer, but the feedback has been wonderful.

What do you hope guests will take away from their stay, and do you have any special tips or recommendations to make their holiday unforgettable?

Rejuvenation, an appreciation for the authenticity of Sardinia, peace, joy, love, connection, and perhaps a touch of the “longevity” energy of this place.

My recommendation is to enjoy the house, but above all, to go out and explore. Go with the flow, or plan a bit ahead during the high season. The house is equipped with several guides full of inspiration. Rent a boat, with or without a skipper, to explore the coastline, visit Cagliari, go hiking or swimming, forage for wild plants and fruits such as cactus figs, asparagus, and mimosa, discover the many beautiful beaches, and simply enjoy.