Villa Bulgari, designed by architect Ferdinando Fagnola, is a brutalist jewel on the Sardinian Coast where art meets architectural innovation. The design thoughtfully balances the raw, industrial aesthetic of Brutalism with the natural beauty of its Mediterranean environment with a structure that appears to emerge organically from the landscape.
- Name: Villa Bulgari
- Bedrooms: 7
- Bathrooms: 8
- Size: 4,843 sq. ft.
- Lot: 1.73 acres
- Built: 1970s
Villa Bulgari, designed by renowned architect Ferdinando Fagnola in the 1970s, stands as a testament to Brutalist architecture on the picturesque northeast coast of Sardinia, Italy. This striking residence, once owned by the famous Bulgari jewelry family, seamlessly blends into its surroundings while maintaining a luxurious character befitting its original owners. The villa’s design is characterized by bare, angular volumes and rough exposed concrete surfaces, creating a bold contrast against the lush Mediterranean landscape with the geometric architectural elements of the villa being integrated into the landscape to preserve the stunning natural setting.
The architect’s vision for Villa Bulgari embraces the principles of indoor-outdoor living, a hallmark of Mediterranean architecture. Large windows expand the living spaces beyond the confines of the walls, allowing inhabitants to fully immerse themselves in the stunning coastal environment. The integration of green roofs further blurs the line between the built structure and its natural setting, demonstrating Fagnola’s commitment to environmental harmony. Perhaps the most captivating feature of the villa is its panoramic seawater swimming pool, which enhances the immersive experience and provides a seamless transition from the built environment to the surrounding seascape.
Inside, the villa’s sober and essential spaces serve as a backdrop for a rich collection of artworks, creating an intriguing dialogue between the raw Brutalist architecture and refined artistic expression. This juxtaposition of rough concrete surfaces with carefully curated art pieces speaks to the sophisticated tastes of its original owners and adds depth to the overall architectural composition. Villa Bulgari stands as a prime example of how Brutalist architecture can be adapted to create a luxurious yet environmentally integrated living space, challenging preconceptions about this often-misunderstood architectural style. The design aimed to blend the structure into the surrounding landscape while still maintaining a luxurious character befitting its famous original owners.
- Architect: Ferdinando Fagnola
- Photography: Gabriele Sotgiu
- Past Owner: Members of the Bulgari family – Italian jewelers
- Location: Via Ermes, Portisco, Sardinia, Italy
