Design in the Dolomites

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A fairy-tale location surrounded by mountains

Cortina, otherwise known by its full name Cortina d'Ampezzo, is considered the Pearl of the Dolomites. This magical corner of Northern Italy, set against a spectacular mountain backdrop, is known throughout the world not only as a skier’s paradise but as a favoured destination of the international jet-set.

With a 1000-year history, it is a place where the past and present meet, with a local language known as Ladino which is a hybrid of ancient Latin and the dialects spoken by the Celtic tribe locals. Its picturesque setting and buildings, and the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites, now a UNESCO heritage site, have been immortalised in numerous films, including James Bond.

And it is here, in this intimate fairy-tale town that we have been privileged to be involved in the makeover of an old residence. Inspired by the snowy surroundings, we decided to recreate the stunning exterior environment with its contrasts of pale and dark, in the form of Pietra d’Avola and Crema d’Orcia, two warm and inviting limestones.

What a way to start your day, preparing your morning coffee in the open-plan kitchen, where the pale tones of Crema d’Orcia are brought to life in the hewn texture of Raw, in a subtle nod to the jagged peaks that loom in front of the oversize window. The immensity of nature is also recreated in the Taula table, and as you sit at it, sipping your coffee, you feel empowered and ready to step outside and discover the wonders that await.

Wrapped up warmly, you make your way to Corso Italia for a hearty breakfast followed by a leisurely browse among the boutiques and a visit to the imposing basilica and the Ciasa de Ra Regoles, a typical nineteenth-century Austrian-style residence.

However, as charming as the architecture may be, there is no competition when it comes to the real star of the show. The mountains dominate, with seven peaks over 3000 metres part of a vast ski area that delivers thrills and views for skiers of every level. Whether you experience the slope on a snowboard, a pair of skis or a bobsled, from the Tofane to the Giau Pass and the three Lavaredo peaks, you are guaranteed a fantastic sporting experience and breathtaking scenery.

At the end of an exhilarating day of sport, food and nature, what better way to revive than a long hot soak in the bathtub or, even better, a sauna in an enticing dark and atmospheric setting created by Pietra d’Avola in our Raw texture.

Restored and relaxed, bed beckons, but not before your evening rituals in the practical but elegant ensuite bathroom where the walls in Crema d’Orcia Plissé create a stylish backdrop to the Punto “Seagull’s Wings” basin unit in Pietra d’Avola and wood. In short, a refined way to end a wonderful day in Cortina d’Ampezzo.