Suspended between Sea and Sky

Immersed in the Mediterranean shrub and caressed by the whispering wind, the Capofaro lighthouse suites on the island of Salina in the Aeolian Islands represent the perfect union between architecture and landscape. Suspended overhanging the sea, the six rooms were created as part of the restoration project of the 19^th century lighthouse. The project, designed by MAB Arquitectura, included the redevelopment and recovery of the site, maintaining the charm of the unique nature of the island. The suites represent an extension of the adjacent Capofaro Locanda & Malvasia. The structure, an ancient Malvasia vineyard, has been transformed into an elegant wine resort that is now part of the Relais & Châteaux collection.

The architects preserved some of the building’s original elements in the restoration project, including the vaulted ceilings and the spiral staircase that once led to the beacon, originally located on the roof of the lighthouse keeper’s quarters. The vaults were preserved from a structural point of view, while the tuff ashlars on the façade ‒ which had deteriorated due to weather and salt ‒ were recovered. The cornices and sills were also restored, and the lime plaster façade has been renovated in line with Aeolian tradition.

The 30 and 50 sq. m suites are located on the sides of the complex, while one apartment is in a separate building. Both types of accommodation have their own entrance and garden to ensure utmost privacy for guests. The largest suite, measuring 80 sq. m, is in the center of the main structure and expands over two levels, allowing guests to ascend the spiral staircase that once led to the beacon, and reach a panoramic terrace with a view of the sea and the vineyards.

The spaces were designed with great care and minimalism, favoring the use of sober materials and colors to transmit the idea of beauty inherent in simplicity. The interiors are defined by a neutral color palette, where warm tones like beige and brown blend with the white lime surfaces of the walls. Sand-colored micro-cement floors and touches of blue that evoke the sea complete the environment. The custom-made furnishings, designed with local materials and fabrics, recall the colors of the surrounding nature, giving elegance and sophistication to the rooms. The bathrooms feature wooden furnishings and cementine tile floors, handcrafted to the designs of MAB Arquitectura.

In the landscape area around the lighthouse, the architects created dry stone walls, paths made of local volcanic gravel, and bamboo dividers to shade the gardens of the suites. A small botanical museum was also set up across different locations, featuring the main Mediterranean maquis plants and native species of Salina, including capers, myrtle, lavender, and strawberry trees, as well as olive trees, laurel hedges and mastic trees, rosemary, agave, and prickly pear plants. Next door, a small building was transformed into a “micromuseum” of the marina and Malvasia: this multimedia space provides a narrative on themes related to the island’s history and territory through projections and infographics, offering a 360-degree experience that goes beyond a simple vacation, immersing guests in the culture and authenticity of the place.

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Capofaro Locanda & Malvasia Suites - © Alberto Moncada, courtesy of MAB Arquitectura

Capofaro Locanda & Malvasia Suites - © Alberto Moncada, courtesy of MAB Arquitectura

The structure of the old lighthouse, preserved by restoration work, provides access to the space that once housed the lantern, which has been transformed into a terrace overlooking the sea. Outside, green spaces and paths have been created that blend into the Aeolian landscape.

Capofaro Locanda & Malvasia Suites - © Alberto Moncada, courtesy of MAB Arquitectura

The living area was designed using natural materials, and the color palette is dominated by the white of the walls and the sand-colored microcement floors. These elements contrast the blue couch that adds a touch of color, bringing the sea inside the space.

Capofaro Locanda & Malvasia Suites - © Alberto Moncada, courtesy of MAB Arquitectura

The bathrooms, characterized by sand-colored surfaces, are embellished with wooden furniture and hand-crafted cement tile floors, made to a design by MAB Arquitectura. A large mirror, a straw basket, and a wooden ladder serving as a towel rack complete the space.

Capofaro Locanda & Malvasia Suites - © Alberto Moncada, courtesy of MAB Arquitectura

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