An Elegant Barn Conversion in the Hills: A Masterful Dialogue Between Bespoke Artistry and Supreme Comfort in Sasso Marconi, Italy
Nestled in the picturesque hills of Sasso Marconi, this extraordinary private residence – a restored historic barn – is the result of a close collaboration with Interior Designer Deniz Onel. Designed for an American couple who chose the Bologna countryside as their home, this two-story property underwent a comprehensive architectural and interior redesign, meticulously curated down to the finest detail.
The narrative of the project weaves the owners’ passion for music and vinyl, the seamless rhythm of family life, entertaining, and remote work, alongside their distinct aesthetic: a refined blend of classic rustic charm and industrial minimalism, brought to life through a deeply sartorial approach.
A defining signature of the project is the integration of two distinct Mutina brick collections, inlaid directly into the metal and timber legs and frames of the bespoke furniture pieces. This striking tactile detail creates visual cohesion and material continuity throughout the villa.
Transition and lounge areas elevate the fluidity of the layout: the main living room features a custom sideboard with drawers and side panels clad entirely in marble, alongside a bespoke coffee table and modular metal and wood vinyl storage units.
The mezzanine leading to the bedrooms hosts the Ben daybed upholstered in New Storytale fabric, paired with the geometric elegance of the B190 console in Yellow Travertine and Slate finish. At the entrance, a bespoke console with wooden shelving, Mutina bricks, and burnished iron tie-rods welcomes guests with a refined industrial-chic touch.
The home office and private quarters showcase the pinnacle of our custom joinery and cabinet-making. In the executive study, timeless comfort takes center stage with our Belt sofa, elegantly paired with the Franklin pouf upholstered in Métaphores’ exquisite Eden fabric. The main desk incorporates an integrated credenza with soft-close drawers, cable management, and a custom-stained ash finish specified by the architect, complemented by slate-finished metal details. This same finish is echoed in the suspended ash wall shelves positioned opposite the desk and above the Belt sofa.
A second bespoke desk featuring a distinct Mutina brick pattern was engineered for the daughter’s bedroom, while the primary suite welcomes the owners with a fully custom-designed bed.
The ground-floor kitchen and dining area presents a masterpiece of functional engineering: a dramatic central table with a cylindrical base, timber top, and burnished iron perimeter frame. Fitted with a gas-piston mechanism operated via an integrated lever, it transitions effortlessly from a low children’s play table to the primary dining surface. Completing the space are ceiling-suspended speaker mounts in a burnished finish and sartorial bench and entryway cushions.
Year: 2026
Location: Sasso Marconi, Italy
Interior Design: Deniz Onel Bespoke Interiors
Collection Products: Belt Sofa, Franklin Pouf, Ben Daybed, B190 Console.
Bespoke Elements: Gas-adjustable dining table, marble-clad living sideboard, executive ash desk, children’s desk with Mutina inserts, entryway console with bricks and tie-rods, custom primary bed, shelves, modular vinyl storage cubes, ceiling speaker mounts, tailored soft pads.
