I'm Where I Live

A Modern, Eco-Friendly Building Inspired by Mediterranean Architecture

In the heart of the Messapic civilization of the lower Salento region, the ancient village of Muro Leccese witnesses the novel encounter between aesthetics, technology, green housing, and relaxation. This is the idea behind "I'm Where I Live," a space created by designer Emanuele Spano that constitutes a unique journey into a new eclectic and refined living concept.

Operational and intimate, in the style of the traditional workshop-houses of the Mediterranean region, the project is an uncompromising expression of design and architecture, forging its visual identity. The culture of design meets the young "culture" of the new sustainable building concept – this, in essence, is the mission defining "I'm Where I Live."

A modern building constructed with eco-friendly plaster and filled with design objects, yet its restructuring was aimed at evoking the "Saracen Tower" model – a crucial component of the architectural heritage of the Salento region. The project goes beyond the traditional idea of a home: an old building with inconspicuous lines was completely transformed into a designer villa-studio. The original space was enlarged and reveals the decisive influence of interior design and architecture in defining the owner's personal touch. Unusual objects, unexpected colors, and unconventional combinations accomplish more than merely updating old schemes – they add a unique touch of class.

The care taken in its construction emphasized the use of "zero-kilometer" materials obtained in the territory, barely a few hundred meters from the site of the building: this area is home to several tuff quarries and Lecce stone in particular – the major components of the building. The design layout defines three main areas: an original artist's studio/laboratory, a charming bathroom environment, and the living room-kitchen area where the prominent feature is the revolutionary cooker hood Legend by Elica, with its sculpture-like forms hovering above the wenge and Corian High Teak island designed by Salvarani.

"I'm Where I Live" is not just a building; it is a concept of biocompatibility between art and life. It is a modern, eco-friendly building made entirely of natural stone and biocalce, inspired by the model of the Saracen Tower, a crucial piece of Mediterranean architectural identity. It is a way of life for the designer, as well as a project of biocompatibility: a smart and powerful house/shop, a space of aggregation for creatives, artists, and architects. It is a project of natural intelligence of the arts.

The project, which started in January 2010 in Muro Leccese, Italy, is a testament to the designer's dedication to quality and innovation in the workplace. It is a space inspired by bioarchitecture, promoting a harmonious relationship between humans and the environment. The use of Italian limestone Pietra di Lecce and biocalce further enhances the sustainable nature of the design.

"I'm Where I Live" has received recognition for its outstanding design. It was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in 2012 in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category. This prestigious award is given to designs that demonstrate exceptional expertise, innovation, and artistic skill. The project showcases a remarkable level of excellence and introduces positive feelings, amazement, and wonder.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Emanuele Spano
Image Credits: Emanuele Spano
Project Team Members: Emanuele Spano
Project Name: I'm Where I Live
Project Client: Emanuele Spano


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