Among the rolling hills of Siena, a former lawn has been transformed into an intimate, vibrant place full of life. The owners envisioned an outdoor space where water, stone and greenery could merge into a natural whole, in harmony with both the landscape and the stone farmhouse overlooking the garden.
At the centre lies a 12 × 6 metre saltwater pool, designed by Vera Luciani with Officine Marchesi 1815, conceived as an integral part of the landscape – an invitation to stillness and contemplation, evoking the authenticity of a water body shaped by time. More than just a functional feature, it becomes the heart of a landscape that invites one to slow down, observe, and experience nature.
The pool basin was built without reinforced concrete, opting for a low-impact construction method. A light-grey PVC liner gives the water a turquoise hue with silvery reflections. Irregular slabs of Trani stone, laid opus incertum, define edges, paths, and access areas, including a gentle entrance with a shallow 50 cm beach designed for relaxing in the water.
Over time, the garden has evolved into a dynamic ecosystem that changes with the seasons and supports rich biodiversity. Around the pool, a mosaic of Mediterranean species fills the air with fragrance and colour, attracting butterflies and pollinators. Lavenders (Lavandula), santolinas (Santolina chamaecyparissus), prostrate rosemaries, Helichrysum italicum, sages, Phlomis fruticosa, Teucrium fruticans and Euphorbia characias mingle with roses and light-textured shrubs such as abelias, composing a lively plant tapestry that continually renews the landscape.
A hedge of Photinia × Fraseri ‘Red Robin’ encloses and protects the space, enhancing its sense of intimacy, while a pergola draped with grapevines (Vitis vinifera) leads toward the water, offering shade and coolness along the way.
Pool technical details:
• Dimensions: 12 × 6 m
• Depth: from 0.50 m (shallow beach) to 1.50 m
• Technology: saltwater filtration system
• Structure: built without reinforced concrete, low environmental impact
• Interior finish: light grey PVC liner
• Edges and paving: irregular Trani stone slabs laid opus incertum
• Design and construction: Vera Luciani with Officine Marchesi 1815
Garden: Vera Luciani with Officine Marchesi 1815 and Yan Vandervorst
