Restoring a stone house in the hills

Perched on a natural ledge in the hillside near the small northern Italian village of Cavatore lies a characterful country house, now owned by the members of MH10 COMFORT+. Secluded and serene, the house offers sweeping views of the surrounding vineyards and distant mountains.

A winding private road leads to the gate and courtyard, where guests are welcomed by panoramic views over the rolling hills and valleys of Piedmont.

With its classic cotta-tiled roof, stone façades, and deep green shutters, the house blends beautifully into the landscape – in harmony with the few neighbouring homes.

The outdoor areas were created as a natural extension of the house: a pool, outdoor shower, terraces, summer kitchen, pizza oven and pétanque court all face south/west, ensuring full sun throughout the day. A covered terrace makes it possible to enjoy the outdoors – even at midday or during a summer rain.

Bringing in the Light

Entering the home, guests step into a grand double-height hall that immediately sets the tone. From here, a large bedroom, bathroom and living room connect to the open-plan kitchen and dining area. Large glass doors link the interior to the terraces and pool area.

Upstairs, the home offers three bright bedrooms and a spacious bathroom. A balcony overlooking the entrance hall doubles as a functional workspace.

The home has been restored with great respect for the region’s traditional architecture. Previously hidden walls and ceilings have been revealed and carefully restored, while new openings were added to bring in more light and improve the flow of the rooms.

Natural light now moves freely through the house, softening the rustic materials and adding a warm, inviting atmosphere.

From Stable to Stunning Kitchen

Parts of the original building date back to the 1800s. When MyHomes took over the property, a complete renovation began, transforming the home into the ideal Italian countryside retreat.

Underfloor heating was installed throughout – a challenge in some areas, as the bedrock beneath the house had to be removed and reinforced with new concrete structures to meet structural safety requirements.

The home’s old stable is now a stunning kitchen – one of the most unique spaces in the house. At one end, it opens onto the covered terrace and garden with breathtaking views. At the other, a staircase leads to the upper floor.

New openings have been made towards the living and dining areas, and much of the upstairs features traditional vaulted terracotta ceilings. These were built with reclaimed, hand-moulded bricks (voltini) over 100 years old. Architect Thomas Jensen called them, “the finest I’ve ever seen.”

A carefully designed lighting scheme completes the look, drawing attention to the ceiling’s beautiful craftsmanship.

Below, you can see the kitchen before and after the renovation.

Owner Experience

We recently visited one of the families on their first holiday in the new home. They shared their impressions with us:

“We were so excited to see the house – and it didn’t disappoint. The details are just beautiful, and you feel at home from the very first moment.

We haven’t wanted to leave! Most of our time is spent by the pool or on the pétanque court. In the evenings, we grill or try our hand at the pizza oven.

The view from the house and garden is absolutely breathtaking.

Long after sunset, we stay out on the terrace enjoying the peace and the magical glow of fireflies.

We’re already looking forward to returning next autumn – hopefully in time for a truffle hunt.”

– Helene, owner in MH10 Comfort+