Architectural Escapes: Dimora delle Balze

From Baroque monuments to crystal clear waters that rival the Caribbean, Val di Noto in the southeast corner of Sicily has swiftly ascended to one of Italy’s ‘must do’ summer vacation hotspots.

This is in part thanks to the arrival of Dimora delle Balze in 2017, an elevated masseria (traditional farmhouse lodging) located in the countryside between Noto and Palazzolo Acreide.

Over a dedicated eight-year restoration and renovation of the property, Obradovic and Guidotti worked with Lops to unearth the hidden period details of the manor house, its outbuildings and courtyards.

The result is a masterful mix of traditional decorative vaulted ceilings and ancient Byzantine columns pared with sleek furnishings from renowned designers such as Kettal, Vincent Sheppard, Paola Lenti and Dedar. Into the mix are specially commissioned pieces by local craftsmen, Marrakesh handmade tiles and local market finds.