How do we want to live?
Sustainability: for me, it's a term that has been used far too often in recent years, almost elastic, losing much of its original meaning and threatening to dissolve into the vagueness of marketing and PR strategies.
And yet, aspects of the concept of sustainability have always been - sometimes consciously but often unconsciously - the driving force behind our actions and decisions, leading us to give up our previous life and start the "Cascina del Riccio" project. From the beginning, the cultural dimension of sustainability, namely the question "how do we want to live as human beings, as individuals, but also in the context of other people" and "what is a good life for us" was central. It quickly became clear to us that we wanted to change our approach to time, money, and consumer goods.
What does that mean in concrete terms?
So, we designed and built our house according to the most modern energy standards, quality-oriented, valuable but not excessive. The use of two heat pumps, the installation of underfloor heating, solar and photovoltaic modules, energy storage, and an electric charging station was set from the beginning, as achieving the greatest possible energy autonomy was one of our main goals. Modern wooden windows and shutters with high energy and acoustic insulation values, as well as the use of other natural building materials, a large water cistern, etc., are literally additional "building blocks" of "Cascina del Riccio."
Sustainability, design, and worldview:
All of this is integrated into a concept that thrives on the tension between classic building materials and, on the other hand, art and design objects as well as furniture - including Mid-Century pieces. Cascina del Riccio is an open and inclusive house for all people who share with us the joy of art and culture, the passion for quality, and the responsibility in food consumption.
Regionality and quality
This also means for us focusing on local and regional suppliers in the selection of food and beverages we offer and adhering to organic standards. Here, we have found various small businesses that produce and process excellent and genuine products. We are already curious about how our guests will enjoy them. We ourselves produce our own certified organic extra virgin olive oil, which stands up to any comparison. A few days ago, I opened one of the last cans from the 2022/2023 harvest, and the scent and taste still have remarkable presence and freshness.
The work to complete Cascina del Riccio - Casa Raffaele - is entering the decisive phase. Even though we are behind schedule due to numerous difficulties, the end of the work is in sight. Keep your fingers crossed for us for the final sprint!