reused. Where replacements had to be made
we sourced local handcrafted productsâ
he says. Of course the essentials of 21st-
century living had to be included but it was
done sensitively withall decisions made
on ecological grounds. âCascina La Folla
is surrounded by the natural world that
inspired Franco and Danielaâs productsâ
says Paolo and so the work on the houseâs
exterior and interior was designed âto reflect
the nature reserve as well as their interests
in ecology and the environment.â
The rooms are painted in calm neutral
colours and furnished with understated
antiques. The couple have always been
keen collectors preferring 18th and 19th-
century chairs and sofas over their modern
equivalents. Frequent travellers for their
business they buy pieces from all over the
world and are particularly fond of the simple
aesthetic of Nordic antiques.
Occasionally they ask Paolo to source
specific pieces on their behalf. The designer
co-owns Raw a stylish interiors shop in
Milan that stocks a wide range of antiques as
well as vintage collectables.
Daniela and Franco both have a huge
knowledge of the therapeutic properties of
plants and they are drawn to pieces that
relate to all things botanical and medicinal
such as the prints that hang in the dining
room. Antique medicine bottles with
attractive gilt lettering are a clear nod to theherbalistâs craft a tradition that LâErbolario
continues to this day. The couple are both
keen cooks and the kitchen is stocked with
lovely old copper pans traditional wicker
baskets and wooden storage boxes â all
are used whenever they spend time at the
farmhouse. Vintage gardening implements not
only reflect Francoâs interest in agriculture but
are put to use in the garden.
Although very dierent from the ruin they
fell in love with Cascina La Folla retains its
storybook charm testament to the ownersâ
sensitive handling of the restoration and
decor both of which are in harmony with
the age of the building and the ancient and
unspoilt landscape in which it sits. QThe rooms are painted in
calm neutral colours and
furnished with understated
antiques... rather than
modern equivalents
ABOVE In one of the
bedrooms a pair of
Gustavian stools has
been reupholstered
in a pretty toile de
Jouy fabric featuring
branches and sheep
to match the bed
linen. The tall black
trunk is vintage and
was used for storing
and transporting
military maps74 H&A SUMMER 2017