Beyond the Walls: A Coastal Renovation Defined by Light, Performance and Flush Design - Case Study
A 1960s seafront property in Porto San Giorgio has been transformed into a contemporary living environment through a comprehensive renovation led by Francesco Valentini. The project reconfigures the existing building into three independent residential units, combining spatial efficiency with high-performance building solutions.
Leveraging the provisions of Italy’s “Piano Casa”, the design recovers and extends the footprint of a former west-facing portico. This intervention enables the creation of a 90 sqm apartment, a 30 sqm unit, and a 28 sqm studio, optimising the building’s volume without compromising its relationship with the surrounding landscape.
The internal layout has been completely reworked through the removal of partitions and cavity walls, allowing for a new, high-performance building. The introduction of internal insulation, insulated cavities, and triple glazing significantly enhances thermal efficiency while maximising natural light and opening up uninterrupted views towards the sea and the historic village of Torre di Palme.
A continuous terrace, approximately three metres deep, extends across the east–west elevation, creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor living spaces—an essential feature for coastal living.
High-Performance Living
The building integrates advanced systems, including underfloor heating and ducted cooling, managed via a smart home system for remote control and energy monitoring. These solutions ensure year-round comfort while supporting energy efficiency targets.
Material choices reinforce a sense of continuity and light. Natural oak flooring and softly textured wall finishes contribute to a neutral, contemporary interior palette designed to enhance spatial perception.
Flush Systems as an Architectural Feature
Flush door systems and concealed elements are central to the project’s architectural language, supporting clean lines and visual continuity throughout.
The ECLISSE 40 Collection is specified across the property, with primer-coated door panels ready for custom finishes. The installation orientation of the bevelled edge is carefully considered to respond to each space—either facing the living area or the corridor—enhancing both function and design coherence.
This approach is complemented by the ECLISSE Delta Skirting Board, which mirrors the same angled geometry as the doors. The result is a coordinated detailing strategy that creates subtle shadow lines, adding depth while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic.
A bespoke finish in a muted blush tone incorporates a ECLISSE Syntesis Line Hinged door, concealing access to a bathroom within a single, continuous volume. This integrated solution also accommodates guest storage and technical space, demonstrating how flush systems can support both design clarity and practical functionality.
Additional concealed solutions include the ECLISSE Syntesis Areo, used to discreetly close off storage areas, and service compartments. Finished to match the surrounding walls, these panels disappear into the architecture, reinforcing the project’s clean and cohesive appearance.
Living the Landscape
The bathrooms and bedrooms continue the project’s design narrative, with bold material choices, continuous surfaces, and large glazed openings that maximise daylight. In the attic space, the bedroom is conceived as a private retreat, featuring a freestanding bathtub and integrated wardrobe area.
More than a renovation, this project represents a considered approach to modern living—where performance, aesthetics, and spatial fluidity are fully aligned. The result is a home that not only responds to contemporary needs but also frames and enhances its coastal setting, making the landscape an integral part of the living experience.
Project: Coastal Renovation
Year: 2025
Location: Porto San Giorgio, Italy
Designer: Francesco Valentini
Photography: Enrico Dal Zotto