Renovating a Bungalow
A Timeless Transformation: From 1960s Bungalow to Contemporary Biophilic Living
Nestled in nature, this beautifully renovated bungalow seamlessly blends the past with the future. Inspired by the laid back lifestyle and architecture of sunny Puglia and designed according to the principles of Biophilic Design, this home embraces natural elements, soft textures, and a harmonious connection between indoor and outdoor living.
Once a traditional 1960s bungalow, this residence has been thoughtfully transformed into a modern, future-proof home. One that enhances well-being, fosters tranquility, and prioritizes sustainability. The renovation extends throughout the entire property, creating a sanctuary where functionality meets aesthetic elegance.
Original bungalow from the sixties.
Layout of the design
The owners envisioned a home that seamlessly blends spaciousness, natural light, and a strong connection to the outdoors. At the heart of their vision is a large, open-plan living kitchen, featuring a generous round table with seating for six, perfect for gatherings and creating a welcoming atmosphere. Additionally, a large utility room offers extensive cabinetry, space for a wine fridge, and a large fridge-freezer combination, ensuring practicality meets sophisticated living. Expansive windows and French doors ensure abundant daylight, enhancing the sense of openness and offering a fluid connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces.
On the front of the house they requested an intimate TV lounge and reading space that offer a cozy retreat, complementing the home’s open living areas. Natural materials and neutral tones are key elements throughout the bungalow, fostering a calm and timeless aesthetic. The design includes a 30 m2 covered terrace at the back with provisions for an outdoor kitchen, ideal for alfresco dining and entertaining.
The couple wanted two spacious bedrooms, one for guests and a master suite. With the master suite featuring an impressive wall-to-wall wardrobe for ample storage. The master bedroom should include an ensuite bathroom complete with a sauna and walk-in shower, while the second ensuite bathroom houses a freestanding bathtub and generous storage solutions.
Because they both work from home they needed two dedicated office spaces, one with a private entrance, kitchenette, and sanitary facilities.
Contemporary Minimalist Kitchen Design with Biophilic Elements
This contemporary minimalist kitchen design seamlessly integrates functionality and natural beauty. The space exudes tranquility and sophistication, thanks to a carefully curated combination of organic materials, soft curves, and an abundance of natural light.
Rounded Kitchen Island: Flowing Elegance
At the heart of the space stands a rounded kitchen island, a sculptural centerpiece that strikes the perfect balance between aesthetics and ergonomics. The curved edges soften the clean lines and promote a natural flow throughout the room. Finished in a stone-look surface (Dekton®, from Cosentino), the island invites interaction and serves as both a functional workspace and an informal gathering spot.
Natural Stone Backsplash: Raw Elegance
Behind the worktop, a natural stone backsplash provides a striking and character-rich focal point. The unique textures of the stone add tactile depth to the space, creating a subtle yet bold statement. The organic nuances in the material reflect biophilic design principles, lending the kitchen an earthy and serene aesthetic.
Natural Light as a Key Element
Large windows and open sightlines maximize natural light, giving the space a dynamic character throughout the day. Reflections on the natural stone backsplash and light-colored countertops create an interplay of shadows and textures that enhance the vibrancy of the materials. Strategically placed lighting complements this effect in the evening without disrupting the natural aesthetic.
Materials and Colors: Warm Minimalism
The color palette is soft and understated, with earthy and neutral tones reinforcing the connection to nature. Matte-finished cabinetry RAL 9010 and soft beige hues of the cross cut travertin tiles create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
A Kitchen That Breathes Calm and Nature
This contemporary kitchen design merges the core principles of minimalism and biophilic design to create a space that is both functional and serene. The combination of natural materials, rounded forms, and abundant daylight results in a kitchen that is not only visually stunning but also a place where one feels deeply connected to nature.
Dining area
A round dining table is a timeless design choice that blends functionality with elegance. Its smooth, flowing lines create a sense of harmony and balance, making any space feel more inviting. The absence of sharp edges gives it a softer, more organic aesthetic, while its symmetrical shape enhances spatial flow, ideal for both compact and open-plan interiors. A round table naturally draws people together, fostering connection and effortless conversation, all while adding a sophisticated touch to your dining area.
Master bedroom
The built-in wardrobe wall seamlessly connects the bedroom to the en-suite bathroom while offering a sleek, modern storage solution. The design features clean, handle-less white panels that create a minimalist and cohesive look, blending effortlessly with the room’s serene aesthetic. Integrated open niches in warm wood tones add both visual interest and functional display space for decorative items and books. A sliding door is cleverly incorporated into the design, allowing the bathroom to be easily closed off for privacy without disrupting the streamlined appearance. This smart layout maximizes functionality while maintaining a calm, uncluttered atmosphere.
Master bedroom
This bedroom embodies minimalist elegance with a serene, natural color palette that enhances its bright and airy atmosphere. The neutral-toned flooring complements the soft textiles, while simple wooden accents, like the side table and decorative pieces, add warmth and texture. Clean lines, uncluttered surfaces, and a subtle blend of natural materials create a calm, sophisticated retreat that balances comfort with modern design.
The large French doors, framed by sheer, floor-to-ceiling curtains, seamlessly connect the indoor space to the outdoor pool area, inviting in abundant natural light.
Master ensuite
At its heart is a private sauna, offering a perfect space to relax and unwind after a long day. The spacious walk-in shower adds to the spa-like atmosphere. A double vanity with modern basins and ample storage ensures both functionality and style, providing plenty of space for daily routines.
Bathrooms
The luxurious bathrooms are designed to be a serene retreat, combining comfort with contemporary elegance.
Bathing in light
A skylight positioned above the freestanding bathtub bathes the space in natural light, enhancing the tranquil ambiance.
Office space
Since both owners work from home, it was their wish to create two office spaces within the house that seamlessly align with the overall design and aesthetic of the home.
Small home office
A skylight in the office offers the perfect solution for creating a brighter, more pleasant work environment. Natural light not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the space but also boosts productivity, improves mood, and reduces eye strain. A skylight transforms any office into a healthier, more inspiring place to work.
Home Office with facilities & seperate entrance
Entrance Hall
Built-in wardrobe
This entrance hall exudes a clean and modern aesthetic with its light, neutral-toned tiled flooring and minimalist design. The built-in wooden wardrobe with sleek, vertical handles adds warmth and functionality, offering ample space while maintaining a streamlined look. A set of simple side tables with decorative vases and floral accents adds a touch of elegance. The hallway is bright and inviting, thanks to the natural light streaming in from the sky light and glass doors at the far end, creating a seamless connection to the outdoor space.
“Selling the bungalow designed by Brigitte Filippini was a remarkable experience. The thoughtful architecture and distinctive design immediately attracted the right buyers and led to a swift sale. The stylish kitchen island with its soft curves and the natural stone backdrop perfectly balanced aesthetics and functionality. The combination of minimalism, biophilic design, and warm, earthy tones created a serene and inviting atmosphere that truly resonated with buyers.
A home not just to admire, but to experience”
Would you like to experience the beauty of Biophilic Design in your own home? Let us bring your vision to life.
Let’s make something amazing together
Location
Ostuni (BR), Puglia, Italy
Phone
0031 6422 16064
ma**@***************ni.com