Timeless Elegance Meets Modern Luxury: Daisy Carlson to Transform a Tuscan Gem
San Donato Fronzano, Italy — In the heart of the Tuscan countryside, designer Daisy Carlson will soon unveil a breathtaking renovation of an early 19th-century villa. This upcoming transformation promises to blend historical grandeur with contemporary sophistication, creating a panoramic retreat that will embody the serene beauty of Italy. The picture above is before the renovation.
“Every major room faces west, offering sunsets that are nothing short of magical.”
From the moment Carlson stepped into the early 19th-century villa in San Donato Fronzano, Tuscany she was captivated by the light. “Walking through the main house is truly amazing,” Carlson reflects. “Every major room faces west, offering sunsets that are nothing short of magical.” It’s no wonder that Carlson has chosen this villa as the canvas for her latest project—a serene retreat center designed to celebrate both Tuscany’s rich heritage and modern luxury.
The villa, encompassing a grand main house, a charming guest house, and a private apartment, was once a well-loved residence of a local Italian family. The previous owners, her longtime friends, were ready to pass the project on, giving Carlson the opportunity to create a space that reflects her passions and expertise.
“I experience Italian country life as both sustainable and sophisticated, this is what I want to share with the world.”
Carlson’s vision for the villa will be twofold: to craft a home that can host family and friends in style while also serving as an intimate retreat center for educational workshops on topics close to her heart. Retreat topics will include traditional Italian perennial agriculture, sculpting, Italian craftsmanship, cuisine, health and Renaissance art. “I experience Italian country life as both sustainable and sophisticated, this is what I want to share with the world.” Her goal will be to design a residence that marries comfort with understated luxury, avoiding any fussiness while ensuring that each space feels inviting and beautifully curated. The rooms will showcase Italian craftsmanship.
“Our spring fed cold plunge will be made from Carrera marble”
The villa’s design will take full advantage of its natural surroundings. The main house, originally constructed to maximize light and airflow, will require minimal structural changes. Carlson will choose to preserve the original layout and architectural integrity, making only subtle adjustments such as the introduction of sliding doors to create flexible spaces without compromising the villa’s grand charm.
time-honored practices help us to gain insights into the sophistication of sustainable living.
“I am committed to highlighting Italian Craftsmanship”
A deep respect for Tuscany’s architectural heritage will guide Carlson’s choices throughout the renovation. Original features like the terracotta flooring, wooden beams, and plaster walls will be meticulously restored by local artisans. “I’m committed to honoring Italy’s craftsmanship,” Carlson says. My goal is to have everything handcrafted in Italy to showcase Italian design. “Our spring fed cold plunge will be made from Carrera marble, and the cabinetry will be crafted by Tuscan artisans. Every detail will reflect the region’s rich tradition.”
“I love flexible spaces that can morph from yoga studio to art studio then host 60 for a dinner party.”
The interior design seeks to strike a harmonious balance combining grand antiques with contemporary elements. Carlson will integrate many of the home's current historical pieces with modern luxury, resulting in a space that will feel both elegant and relaxed. By curating a mix of old and new, Carlson can showcase her love for antiques while ensuring that the villa feels fresh and contemporary. “I love flexible spaces that can morph from yoga studio to art studio then host 60 for a dinner party.”
"For those seeking a slice of Italian paradise, this villa will offer a truly enchanting experience."
The villa’s expansive layout and panoramic views make it an ideal setting for both family gatherings and intimate retreats. Carlson’s thoughtful renovation will create a space where guests can indulge in the beauty of Tuscany while enjoying the comforts of a meticulously designed modern home. This Tuscan retreat will stand as a testament to Carlson’s unique ability to blend traditional and antique pieces with contemporary design, creating a space that is both timeless and inviting. "For those seeking a slice of Italian paradise, this villa will offer a truly enchanting experience." Carlson is using her design expertise to create a haven for retreats dedicated to exploring the historic sustainability of Italian agriculture, art, food, and culture.
This thoughtfully designed villa will serve as a serene backdrop for immersive experiences, where participants can reconnect with time-honored practices and gain insights into the sophistication of sustainable living.
By looking to the past, Carlson's retreats aim to inspire both personal healing and planetary well-being, demonstrating how the wisdom of historical traditions and the good life can guide us toward a more harmonious future.
For more information about the villa and its future availability, contact info@villapanoramica.org
Perennial Agriculture
Perennial agriculture in Tuscany offers a range of compelling benefits that harmonize with the region's unique landscape and climate. By focusing on crops that live for multiple years, this approach reduces soil erosion and improves soil health through natural root systems that stabilize the earth and enhance nutrient cycling and soil carbon. In addition to fostering biodiversity and reducing the need for synthetic inputs, perennial crops require less frequent replanting, which conserves water and minimizes labor. This sustainable method not only preserves Tuscany's picturesque landscapes but also supports local ecosystems and contributes to long-term agricultural resilience. Embracing perennial agriculture ensures a more balanced and enduring approach to farming that aligns with the region's storied agricultural heritage.
About Daisy Carlson:
Daisy Carlson, known for her luxury Italian imports company Daisy Arts Inc., is celebrated for her exceptional talent in blending historical charm with modern sophistication. Her deep passion for Italian craftsmanship shines through in every project, as she masterfully creates spaces that are both elegantly curated and imbued with a timeless sense of luxury. Carlson's current endeavor at Villa Panoramica promises to be a stunning testament to her unique vision, honoring traditional Italian culture and artistry while embracing contemporary refinement.