Sikelia by Alessandrelli Pazienza
Located in Pantelleria, Italy, Sikelia is a luxurious 20 suite resort designed in 2017 by Alessandrelli Pazienza.
About Sikelia
Discover Pantelleria’s Architectural Gem
Nestled on the Sicilian island of Pantelleria, a prestigious resort boasts 20 suites, alongside a restaurant and swimming pool. This haven integrates the traditional dammusi—local architecture with Moorish roots—both old and new.
Blending Tradition with Modern Comfort
The resort showcases an intricate blend of vaulted structures and thick masonry walls, characteristic of dammuso houses. Here, traditional design meets cutting-edge technology to ensure maximum comfort without losing the historic charm of these exotic dwellings.
Designers embarked on a comprehensive exploration of the site. Their efforts spanned from landscaping gardens to interior design, all to capture and present the unique spirit of this locale.
A Visual Symphony of Light and Color
Outside, the architecture sports pale, dusty colors that harmonize with local whitewashed roofs. These hues reflect the Mediterranean light, making the structures appear as if clouds descended to earth, searching for rest.
To safeguard the private gardens, slender metal frames complement the architecture’s clean lines; rush matting creates spaces filled with light and shadow, all while welcoming the sea breeze and panoramic views.
Innovative Solutions for Aesthetic and Function
The design team tackled numerous technical challenges, finding solutions that marry maintenance needs with the exteriors’ elegance. For instance, inspection well covers transform into corten steel plates with brass inserts, seamlessly integrating with the gardens’ layout.
The resort’s twenty-one architectural projects—one for each suite—plus communal areas, feature a mix of classic and custom-made furnishings. These pieces highlight natural colors and textures, crafted with meticulous attention to detail.
Inside Pantelleria’s Luxurious Retreat
Upon entering the hotel, visitors find relief in the dark, volcanic hues that echo the island’s terrain, a respite from the Sicilian sun’s intensity.
This luxurious coziness results from a collaboration with artist Gennaro Avallone, known for his applied arts research. Avallone’s works beautifully complement the traditional vaulted interiors, enhancing the resort’s unique atmosphere.
Photography by Tom Mannion
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- by Matt Watts
