Trullo Otivm: where tradition and modernity meet

Reading time: minutes

An oasis of peace in the heart of Italy’s Puglia region, where contemporary design merges with ancient architecture to provide an experience of relaxation and wellbeing.

In the heart of Italy’s Puglia region, at Castellana Grotte in the province of Bari, Trullo Otivm is a modern interpretation of an ancient architectural tradition. Designed by Studio Sospeso in association with Effe Studio, this holiday home combines the simplicity of local stone with contemporary design, creating a location that stimulates a reconnection to nature and pure wellbeing.

Surrounded by the peaceful Puglia countryside, Trullo Otivm stands next to a small convent dedicated to Maria Immacolata, still home to a community of Celestine Nuns, who follow the rule of St Benedict, based on his philosophy of “Ora et labora”. The entire project is grounded in the intriguing juxtaposition of the two different principles: the monastery’s routine of contemplative labour and the calm relaxation offered by the Trullo. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, giving guests the chance to break away from the frenetic pace of daily life and rediscover the beauty of the nature and history around them.

Every tiny detail of the Trullo’s interior is carefully designed to make full use of the space available and offer guests the highest level of comfort. Special attention was paid to the choice of the tiles for the building’s two bathrooms, which play a significant role in defining each room’s personality.

“Ragno ceramics were the obvious choice for us, thanks to their appearance, well attuned to the traditional architecture of Puglia, and their ability to evoke a feeling of rootedness and belonging,” the architects explained.

The material selected for the internal bathroom was the Beige color from Ragno’s Gleeze collection. The square tiles, in 10×10 size, are alternated with the Egg 3D three-dimensional structure to generate an intriguing perspective effect that gives the interior depth and dynamism.

For the external bathroom, the Giada color from the same collection dialogues with the natural surroundings, merging attractively into the Puglia landscape. The tiles, in brick size, reinforce the visual continuity between indoors and outdoors. The glossy finish reflects the natural light, creating a bright, luminous effect that references the elements of nature and accentuates the mood of relaxation.
Gleeze’s surface features hand-finished motifs that underline the flaws and irregularities typical of crafted tiles. Strong shade variations, drips of rust and iron, subtle chipping of the edges and imperfect relief markings give interiors an exclusive value, enveloping them in an atmosphere of authenticity.

“The association of ancient materials like terracotta, wood and local stone with the Ragno collections,” Studio Sospeso continued, “has enabled us to create interiors that are not merely practical but also spiritually evocative, in line with the location’s historic and cultural identity.”
At Trullo Otivm, every feature tells a story, in which past and present unite in a perfect balance, offering guests a fascinating, unique experience immersed in the timeless beauty of Puglia.

Interior Design Project & Styling Studio Sospeso
Hospitality Consulting & Brand Identity Effe Studio
Reseller: STEI
Ph Gabriele Fanelli