Lighthouse Hotel: redevelopment of the San Domino Lighthouse

Is it possible to revive the ancient San Domino lighthouse by designing a small boutique hotel inside it?

We responded to this challenge by imagining an accommodation solution that could connect the wild nature of the surrounding environment with the need to offer a refined and comfortable experince. The San Domino Lighthouse redevelopment project aims to transform this historic structure into a luxury boutique hotel, keeping its essence intact and integrating it harmoniously with the surrounding natural environment.

Located on the island of San Domino, the largest of the Tremiti Islands archipelago, the lighthouse dates back to the early 20th century. Positioned in the southwestern part of the island, it is surrounded by lush vegetation, coves and paradisiacal beaches, offering a unique and impressive panorama.

The competition for the redevelopment of the San Domino Lighthouse aims to breathe new life into this historic structure, transforming it into a luxury boutique hotel that offers a unique and immersive experience for guests, while keeping its historic essence intact.

The main challenge of the project is to reinterpret the existing spaces by introducing modern solutions that enhance the natural beauty of the island and the history of the lighthouse, offering guests a unique and immersive hospitality experience.

The project places respect for the original architecture of the lighthouse at the center. Restoration efforts are designed to preserve the historic integrity of the structure, using traditional materials such as stone and wood, combined with innovative technological solutions to ensure comfort and sustainability.

Each environment has been redesigned to maximize interaction with the surrounding landscape, making nature the true protagonist. Outdoor areas feature stone paths leading to scenic terraces and outdoor gardens, designed to provide moments of contemplation and an atmosphere of total immersion in the landscape of the Tremiti Islands.

The interiors of the San Domino Lighthouse are designed to provide welcoming, bright and functional environments. The design of the spaces reflects a balance between respect for history and modern comfort. Natural materials, such as wood, stone, and fine fabrics, blend seamlessly with sea and earth tones, creating a visual harmony that recalls the colors and atmosphere of the island.

The project pays special attention to eco-sustainability, using eco-friendly materials and advanced technologies to minimize environmental impact. The use of native plants in the outdoor garden helps create a natural environment that requires little maintenance and is perfectly suited to the Mediterranean climate.

In addition to architectural redevelopment, the project includes the creation of a small museum inside the lighthouse, dedicated to the history of the structure and its importance to the local community and sailors. This space is intended to be a tribute to the culture of the place and an opportunity to raise visitors’ awareness of the importance of preserving historical heritage.