LIFE STYLE:
And
for the obvious love of their food, wine and the Amalfi Coast.” The family found their feet in Rome then headed south to find a country house for the summer.
With its bright light and rugged authenticity, the crumbling old farmhouse now known as Casa Olivetta felt like an aesthetic dream. Dinnigan spent the next four years working with local craftspeople on the restoration – the perfect initiation into the Italian way of life. “Though I am still struggling with the siesta timing and how everything closes from 1.30 to 4.30pm.”
These days, the four-bedroom home is the epitome of Dinnigan’s aesthetic, with centuries-old terracotta and reclaimed timber floors, stone terracing and limewashed brick walls. Salvaged wall sconces cast soft light – she “cannot cope with downlights” – and she’s dressed each room with objets d’art and dreamy landscapes collected from Italy and Belgium.
In late 2020, the family returned to Australia due to the worsening COVID situation and listed the Puglia house as an idyllic holiday rental. Dinnigan says they have never looked back. “Although there have been many hurdles, we are passionate about Italy and have formed many great friendships,” she says. “When a new normal is realised, we will start thinking again.”
Always
The antique markets in Puglia are fantastic. They’re on each Sunday in a different town, and you need to be early. I have also sourced many pieces from more serious sellers at the Parma Fair, which is twice a year.
I am constantly editing, but flowers definitely give it a sense of place.
The journey, as you never know where you will end up.
Visit casaolivetta.com