Reviving Tradition: The Journey of Luxi Bia in Sardinia
A Labor of Love: Restoring a Forgotten Heritage
In the rolling hills of southern Sardinia, a once-abandoned cluster of ruined houses has been transformed into a vibrant cultural haven called Luxi Bia, or "light that has been seen." This labor of love was undertaken by Kyre Chenven and Ivano Atzori, a couple who embarked on a nearly five-year journey to acquire the property. The houses, remnants of a furriadroxu—a traditional agrarian community—had been left to decay after the family that once inhabited them moved to a nearby village. The couple’s vision was to breathe new life into this forgotten piece of history, creating a space where visitors could immerse themselves in Sardinia’s rich culture and natural beauty. The process of acquiring the property was no small feat; Sardinia’s complex hereditary traditions meant the houses were divided among numerous heirs, requiring a year of negotiations to bring everyone to the table.
A Couple’s Passion for Sardinia’s Deep History
Kyre Chenven and Ivano Atzori’s connection to Sardinia runs deep, though their paths to the island were winding. Chenven, a 46-year-old with a background in set design in New York City, and Atzori, a 48-year-old former graffiti artist from Milan, relocated to Sardinia in 2014 with their two children. While Atzori had family roots on the island, the couple’s move was still a leap into the unknown. Sardinia, with its Stone Age origins and centuries of isolation, captivated them with its layered history and resilient culture. Their first venture, Pretziada, brought together international designers and local artisans to create handmade furniture and objects inspired by Sardinian traditions. Luxi Bia, their latest project, is an extension of this passion—a place where visitors can experience the island’s unique heritage firsthand.
A New Vision for Rural Tourism
Luxi Bia is more than just a collection of holiday homes; it represents a fresh approach to tourism. Nestled in a shallow valley surrounded by rolling hills, the property offers stunning views of the Mediterranean and is a short drive from pristine beaches and pink flamingo-filled marshlands. The whitewashed stone houses, encircled by traditional stone walls and a growing fence of prickly pear cactus, were meticulously designed to align with the original furriadroxu layout. The couple’s goal is to provide a space where visitors can connect with Sardinia’s culture and environment while supporting local businesses. Instead of installing a pool, for instance, they encourage guests to explore the nearby beaches and patronize local shops and restaurants.
Preserving Tradition with a Modern Touch
The restoration of Luxi Bia was a careful balancing act between preserving Sardinia’s vernacular architecture and incorporating contemporary design. The couple adhered to traditional elements, such as terra-cotta tile roofs salvaged from the original ruins, while updating materials for modern comfort. Floors made of local terra-cotta tiles and ceilings woven from reeds coated in beeswax reflect their commitment to authenticity. At the same time, large glass windows and minimalist aesthetics bring a modern sensibility to the spaces. The result is a harmonious blend of old and new, where the past informs the present without feeling stifled by it.
Collaboration and Craftsmanship at the Heart of Luxi Bia
The interiors of Luxi Bia are a testament to the couple’s dedication to collaborating with local artisans. Pieces like a side table inspired by traditional wooden chests, crafted by French designer Ambroise Maggiar and Sardinian woodworker Karmine Piras, sit alongside ceramic vessels by Piras’s daughter, Maria Paola. Every object tells a story, reflecting the island’s unique aesthetic while showcasing the skill of its artisans. The couple’s approach to design is deeply intentional, ensuring that their work supports a sustainable economy for Sardinia’s craftspeople. By producing items in regular runs rather than limited editions, they provide consistent income for their collaborators.
Building Bridges Between Tradition and the Modern World
For Chenven and Atzori, Luxi Bia is more than a retreat—it’s a cultural bridge. They critique the trend of using traditional crafts as a superficial design inspiration without truly understanding or supporting the communities that keep these traditions alive. Instead, they aim to act as “cultural translators,” connecting Sardinia’s rich heritage with the broader world. Their work is a testament to the value of slow, intentional design and the importance of preserving cultural identity in a rapidly globalizing world. Luxi Bia is not just a place to stay; it’s an invitation to experience the soul of Sardinia.
