Can you briefly introduce yourselves?

We are Jacqueline Cauwenberg (1961) and Tonco van der Ham (1960). We live on a 30-hectare organic farm where our own home is located. Our children, Teunke (1994) and Jacob (1996), now live elsewhere in Italy, but still visit us regularly.

We both have a strong interest in architecture and design; Villa Lasdrilla is the fourth house we've renovated. At the moment (2025), we’re working on restoring another house, which is taking up quite a bit of time. Tonco is officially retired, though he’s actually busier than ever.

We love hiking (and it doesn’t get much more beautiful than here), we enjoy cooking, and we love going out for dinner. Our holidays are usually short and within Italy, with a mix of culture, activity, some beach time, and of course, great food.

When and how did this property come into your lives, and what motivated you to make it part of your journey?

We’ve lived in this region since 2001. In 2013, we started looking for a plot of land to build a modern, energy-neutral house. After several options that didn’t work out, our real estate agent, a local who already knew us, came with something that didn’t exactly match our brief: a 25-hectare agricultural property. But as soon as we saw it, we were sold. It had the perfect location: close to Urbania, stunning views, and a barn we could take down to gain volume to build our home. The old farmhouse, which is now Villa Lasdrilla, felt like an added bonus.

Can you tell us more about the process of renovating and furnishing the property?

When we started the restoration of Villa Lasdrilla in 2015, most technicians advised us to demolish and rebuild. But that would have meant losing the authenticity, and we were determined to preserve it. Luckily, we managed to convince them. We’re still very happy with the result: Villa Lasdrilla is a mix of old and new, fully electric, and energy-neutral.

And all within budget, except for the swimming pool, but we have absolutely no regrets about that.

What makes your property special to you personally? Any specific memories or moments that make it dear to your heart?

This is where we live, where memories are made. That in itself makes it very special.

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

The atmosphere at Villa Lasdrilla is warm and welcoming. The interior is modern, with a vintage twist.

Which part of your property do you love most, and why?

Between 2016 and 2018, we lived in Villa Lasdrilla ourselves while our own house was still being finished. During that time, we often asked ourselves why we were even building another house, we felt completely at home here.

So if we had to pick a favorite part: the vibe. It just feels right.

What makes the location of your property unique and special?

Although Villa Lasdrilla is at the end of a quiet country road, surrounded by greenery and peace, it’s only a 15-minute walk to Urbania. And that town is exactly why we wanted to be here.

When we first came in 1999, we’d already visited Italy many times, but this landscape struck us. What really convinced us, though, was Urbania and its people. It’s charming but not overrun by tourists. What you find here is genuine friendliness and hospitality, something increasingly rare.

And despite having only 7,000 residents, the town is full of life: shops, restaurants, bars, a theatre, a cinema… it’s all here.

Are there any sustainable or eco-friendly elements at your property that you’re proud of?

Absolutely. The house is fully energy-neutral, with triple-glazed windows, a ventilated roof, insulation wherever possible, and heating via heat pump (or our own wood). There’s no gas. The swimming pool uses no chlorine, but salt that is split through electrolysis, a much more eco-friendly solution. All wastewater is also treated and purified.

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

Villa Lasdrilla continues an activity we started back in 2005 at our previous house. We really enjoyed hosting people back then, and we still do.

Can you paint a picture of the overall experience someone can expect when staying at your property?

Beyond the house, the pool, and the landscape, and aside from all the things to do and see in the area, what people really experience here is a slice of Italy as it once was, and as you hope it will remain.

In what ways does your property stand out from others? What unique features make it a one-of-a-kind experience for guests?

Villa Lasdrilla is set in the midst of nature, offering complete privacy, stillness, and peace. Yet within minutes, you can be in the heart of Urbania, sipping coffee, enjoying a glass of wine, or having a gelato. That combination is rare.

What is the nicest compliment you’ve received from a guest?

Guests often tell us they felt at home here, and that’s exactly what we aim for. It also warms us every time when people notice the kindness and warmth of the locals in Urbania. That really stands out.

What do you hope guests will take away or remember most from their stay at your property?

A sense of well-being. That’s what it’s all about for us.

Do you have any recommendations for guests to make the most of their holiday?

Absolutely. If guests are interested, we’re always happy to share tips on where to eat and what to do.

One general tip: try to embrace the local rhythm. Mornings are lively, but from around 12:30 to 4:00 pm, things slow down, everyone’s having lunch. Late afternoon and evenings (especially in summer) come alive again.

A light breakfast, lunch out, and dinner around 8:00 pm, that’s the local norm.