The result is really breathtaking. He created large and luminous rooms. The old existing walls are clearly separated from everything new that was introduced or added to fill in the parts which were destructed. You see exactly what is old with its hand carved dark natural stones and what is new, all done in white plastered brick walls. There are many windows all with different shape and size in the old stone walls. The front wall of the tower had a large gap in it, a great part of it came down during the centuries. Instead of repairing it with the original field stones he showed it as a large white wound in the old walls, but he put in a panoramic window from bottom to top nearly 5 meters high, offering tremendous views over the whole valley.
Torre del Rio has 3 levels. To enter the castle you have to cross an iron bridge (to remember the ancient pull up bridges which defend a castle) which brings you to the main kitchen on the ground floor.
The staircase up to the first floor is made of iron in a very modern way. This again to show that the original staircase, which was gone over the centuries, was not replaced with a similar one using old materials but the owner decided to put in a modern staircase using modern design and materials. The first floor is one unique room, high large and luminous with an overwhelming feeling of stepping into history right now and here.
Close to the staircase there is a double bed surrounded on all 4 sides with gray fabric. This remembers the tradition of noble families to enrich the bed stand with colorful fabrics and carpets to give it more atmosphere and privacy. On the left side there is an open fire place with chairs. There is a well a comfortable 5 seated couch in the centre of the room with flat screen TV. You have English and international SAT-TV programs, all news channels, kids programs and movie channels.
On this level, behind the staircase there is also a small breakfast kitchen complete with fridge, 2-burner oven, sink, all plates and pans. There is as well a complete bathroom with a large shower box, WC, bidet and sink. This house over’s elegance, comfort and a very personal charm in the middle of unspoiled Tuscan nature. If you are looking for a special Tuscany Villa in an absolute quiet position with maximum privacy and all modern comfort here you found the best place to go.
There is another metal staircase to reach the roof level terrace with its overwhelming views. This terrace is a place to withdraw and relax with a glass of Chianti wine or an interesting book. You will see only Tuscan nature, no roads, no cars, no electric or telephone lines, only green hills up to the horizon.
The kitchen is completely furnished with large fridge, dish washer, clothe washer, 4 burner gas oven, hub, micro wave, double sink, coffee maker, toaster and all pots, pans, plates and glasses you need for a Tuscan dinner. There is also a massive wooden table with space for 8 to 10 persons.
Torre del Rio is an ancient fortified watchtower, a small castle, to defend the local territory. The owner a well know architect bought it over 40 years ago. For centuries the tower was braking to pieces and waiting for a new destiny. 3 years ago the owner started a complete renovation which finished June 2012. He told me that this was his most important project. He did not do it to satisfy a customer but only for himself. It was his hobby and dedication. In this project he could realize all his ideas and imaginations without limitations. He could create his vision of combining a 1000 year old traditional building with modern comfort and elegance.
From the kitchen, 3 steps down on the right side, you enter the master bedroom with en suite bathroom and the majestic 5 meter high panoramic window. There is a comfortable king size double bed and a single bed as well in this room. The En suite bathroom has a shower box, WC, bidet and sink. All furniture is brand new and of top quality. On the left hand from the kitchen you access a small bedroom with a double bed. On request you can have a baby cot and a high chair.
Every modern comfort you will find in this unique historic home. Next to the panoramic window which stretches up into this level, there is another bed stand also covered on all 4 sides with fabric. This is the second double bed in this 500 square feet large room. On request you can have one more single bed in the room. There is air condition in this room as well, which you will use rarely due to the very large natural stone walls which keep it fresh inside.
A private road leads to the tower, there are several parking lots on the private ground. Right in front and behind the house you find 3 different sitting areas with tables and chairs perfect for a relaxing glass of wine. There is as well a covered outdoor dining area with BBQ area and a veggie and herbs garden.
