Places that become events: a contemporary take on Italian villas

Along Lake Como, villas nestle between the shore and steep hillsides. Proximity to the water changes the perception of space: terraces extend towards the horizon, while windows frame the ever-changing reflections below.

Period furnishings, art collections and carefully preserved craftsmanship recall the aristocratic past of these residences. Their understated elegance is particularly suited to intimate gatherings, where the surroundings can be appreciated at a leisurely pace. Guests might be welcomed beneath the arches of a panoramic loggia before moving into the gardens for an aperitivo, followed by dinner overlooking the water as the evening light softens.

The appeal of these retreats also lies in their quieter corners: shaded paths and scenic viewpoints offer opportunities for conversation away from the main group, with the lake always close at hand.

From its elevated position near the Gianicolo, the Eternal City unfolds beneath the terraces of its historic villas. Domes, rooftops and distant monuments fill the panorama, with centuries of Roman architecture extending across the skyline in a fascinating succession of styles.

Graceful porticoes and verdant gardens evoke the grandeur of Roman aristocratic life. Spacious halls lend themselves to gala dinners, presentations and prestigious corporate occasions, while courtyards and panoramic vantage points provide a contrasting atmosphere for receptions and informal talks.

The scale of these properties works well for events that call for a sense of ceremony. High ceilings and imposing entrances create a striking impression on arrival, while the views across Rome offer a privileged perspective on the capital.

At the water’s edge in Posillipo, the Gulf of Naples takes centre stage. Wide terraces face the sea, with views stretching across the bay. Here, a centuries-old structure introduces a different aesthetic, combining majestic towers and crenellated walls with lush green spaces.

The singular character of these residences is ideal for contemporary celebrations and corporate gatherings with a distinctly Mediterranean flair. A drink overlooking the Gulf can lead into an open-air dinner, accompanied by the changing colours of the coastline as the sun dips towards the horizon.

Original architectural features can inform floral compositions, table arrangements and lighting, creating a subtle continuity between the villa and the event.

Each of these locations calls for a specific approach to event planning. 

Once chosen, the venue can inspire much of what follows. A garden might welcome guests for an opening speech, an imposing entrance can lend a sense of anticipation to a formal reception, while a panoramic terrace may be saved for a special dinner.

The art lies in recognising these possibilities and making the most of them, allowing practical considerations and creative decisions to work together. When every detail responds to the property itself, the occasion acquires an identity that would be difficult to recreate elsewhere.