A POSTCARD FROM LAKE ORTA: ARCHITECTS GIAN CARLO AND MATTEO PRIMATESTA
Nestled in the enchanting landscape of North West Italy, Lake Orta has long been a haven for artists, writers, and philosophers drawn to its serene beauty and rich cultural history. Known for its stunning vistas, charming villages, and thriving food and wine scene, this lesser-known gem also holds a significant place in the world of design, located just a stone’s throw from Milan, Italy’s architectural epicentre.
For architect brothers Gian Carlo and Matteo Primatesta, Lake Orta is more than just a backdrop; it’s home. With their unique vision, they’ve transformed the abandoned agricultural settlement of La Darbia into a luxurious retreat that embodies the essence of Italian Dolce Vita and quiet luxury. Join us as we explore Lake Orta through their eyes, discovering hidden treasures, local delicacies, and the timeless charm that makes this place a true escape for those seeking beauty in both design and nature.
A POSTCARD FROM LAKE ORTA: ARCHITECTS GIAN CARLO AND MATTEO PRIMATESTA
Greetings from the stunning shores of Lake Orta, a hidden gem that has captured our hearts and inspired us to undertake the ambitious restoration of La Darbia. When we first discovered this abandoned agricultural settlement, overgrown and forgotten, it was the breathtaking view that truly captivated us. Perched on a hillside, La Darbia offers stunning vistas of the lake and the mountains beyond, creating a feeling of being secluded yet still connected to the world.
Growing up on the shores of Lake Orta, we were immersed in the rhythms of rural life in this corner of Piedmont. The traditions of farm-to-table living and the wisdom of artisans were a natural part of our upbringing. The lake, a constant presence in our lives, became a soothing element around which many of our architectural projects revolved. The decision to restore this piece of land came to us unexpectedly, guided more by intuition than reason. We followed our instincts, and they led us here.
Lake Orta, with its quiet charm and timeless beauty, is unlike any other. It is not a place for everyone, and that’s precisely what makes it so special. At La Darbia, we strive to offer a unique hospitality experience that resonates with those who seek out silent beauty and appreciate moments of serendipity. Our laid-back atmosphere, combined with Mediterranean aesthetics and Italian joie de vivre, mirrors the essence of the lake—a place where magic reveals itself to those who are willing to listen.
As architects and self-taught hoteliers, we approached the restoration of La Darbia with a deep respect for its rural heritage. We wanted the place to speak for itself, to let its history and atmosphere take centre stage. This meant collaborating with local artisans and using traditional building techniques, local materials, and indigenous vegetation. Our focus was on creating a space that feels as if it has always been there, blending seamlessly with its surroundings.
The concept of “quiet luxury” is central to La Darbia’s appeal. For us, this isn’t just a trendy marketing strategy; it’s about commitment to enhancing the soul of a place. We believe that luxury doesn’t have to be loud or extravagant. It can be found in the simple beauty of a view, the texture of an old stone, or the aroma of a plant. By focusing on these essential elements, we create spaces that are calm and soothing, allowing our guests to truly relax and rejuvenate.
Lake Orta has long been a source of inspiration for writers, philosophers, and now design enthusiasts. The region’s rich history of craftsmanship and iconic design, from Alessi to Bialetti, has drawn attention from around the world. At La Darbia, we celebrate this heritage by integrating the local food and wine scene into our guest experience. Our head chef, Matteo Monfrinotti, is passionate about sourcing the finest ingredients from small farms and passionate producers throughout Piedmont. Some of our favourite dishes, like the “Tagliolino Bossolasco” with sausage from Bra or the stuffed rabbit with foie gras, truly showcase the region’s culinary treasures.
Restoring La Darbia was a labour of love, filled with both challenges and memorable moments. In the beginning, we faced some scepticism, but our vision and determination saw us through. Today, the joy we see on the faces of our guests when they first arrive at La Darbia makes every hurdle worth it.
Lake Orta, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbours like Lake Como and Lake Maggiore, offers a more authentic Italian experience. It’s a place where time seems to stand still, where daily rhythms and rituals unfold naturally, untouched by mass tourism. This lake, like sleeping beauty, is waiting for the right travellers to discover its charm and fall in love.
At La Darbia, we strive to balance the preservation of history with the need for modern comforts. We retained the centuries-old vineyard and the architectural features of the old stone tower, blending them seamlessly with contemporary amenities. It’s all about respecting the historical roots of the place while providing a comfortable and luxurious experience for our guests.
As we look to the future, we see Lake Orta continuing to attract those who appreciate its unique charm and beauty. We are excited to share that La Darbia will soon expand to another magical location—same dream, but this time, lavender-scented.
If we could send you a postcard from Lake Orta, it would capture La Darbia’s lake view terrace at sunset, with a glass of fine wine waiting on the table. The message would be simple: “It never felt so true: La vita è bella.”
Gian Carlo and Matteo
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