The cantina apartmentThe cantina is the traditional ground-floor store room of the house. Cool and dark, it was once the perfect place for wine, oil, and salami.
Originally one large space on two levels, with four ceiling vaults, the cantina dates from the 1300s. We've turned it to modern use as a split level studio space for our own use, or for renting with the house as a luxury third bedroom and bathroom, with sitting area and kitchen. The arch under the external stairs makes a porch for the cantina entrance. The original doors have been restored, complete with heavy iron bar to hold them shut at night. Interior stairs lead up to the dining room on the first floor. The whole apartment can be shut off by locking the door at the top of these stairs. The main area at the front is lit by a glass bussola(inside porch) and a high front window looking onto the square. The best pieces of stonework have been left to view in the renovation. A raised kitchen/breakfast area, with desks and storage concealed beneath it, overlooks a sitting/working area. Three steps lead up to the sleeping area and bathroom. There's a luxury kingsize bed which can fold away in the daytime if you want, a Scandinavian rocking chair, and plenty of storage space. The bathroom has an independent boiler for hot water/heating, a shaver point, heated towel rail, bidet and shower. |