Old flour mill restored into charming sanctuary

This beautiful restoration began in 2004 with a passing glance of a shop window of an estate agent. Silvio spotted something for sale that resembled that of an old flour mill in the area of San Bartolomeo di Breda di Piave near Treviso, Italy. Although it seemed to be in a complete ruin, there was something that made Silvio want to go and see the place for himself. He took his wife Elisabetta with him and what they saw was beyond ruins. The roof was completely open, the ceilings had fallen through and there were even trees inside that had begun to make a home for themselves. Yet, within the trees, foliage and rubble, there was something intriguing about the place that didn’t make them walk away. Silvio isn’t short of experience when it comes to discovering potential. As an architect himself, he knew that he could restore this mill back to its former glory days.

“This ancient mill dates back to 1570. When we discovered it, we soon felt in love with it. Even if it was simply a ruin, it kept a magic energy and unique soul. We immediately realized that it had to be saved and most of all it had to be brought back to its ancient beauty and charm. We started this “amazing” adventure, a real challenge. It took four years of hard sacrifice, work and research but, at the same time, it was also very stimulating and exciting. My husband Silvio is the real creator of this miracle. He is a “crazy”, creative architect with an extraordinary sense of beauty, harmony and originality. Silvio transformed this old mill into a beautiful Locanda, while maintaining the authenticity of the building.

We restored everything keeping well in mind the mill’s history and austere character of the building. We used old and recycled materials, left walls bare to the brick, and preserved the floor and the beams untreated. The interior decoration is also very austere, sparse and minimal, although with a strong character, especially in the evening when it’s all lit by candles.
Our dream was to share the peace, beauty and charm of this place with our guests, giving them a way to have their own emotions and inspirations staying here. For this reason, we created the Locanda Rosa Rosae. Here, we hope, every guest can feel and touch the philosophy of beauty, harmony and familiarity of our Locanda…”

For a double bedroom with breakfast, rates start from $150 per night from here.

Photos: Stefano Scata

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