A small deconsecrated chapel nestled in the Tuscan countryside has been given new life as an innovative artist residency through a thoughtful renovation by Atelier Vago. The Pailunga project successfully transforms the 754-square-foot religious structure in Fauglia, Italy, into a functional living and working space while maintaining complete respect for its historic architectural heritage.
The renovation approach prioritized preservation of the original nave, with architects inserting new functional elements—including a kitchen, service areas, a self-supporting iron staircase, and a wooden mezzanine sleeping area—with minimal impact on the existing structure. The central hall remains entirely intact, allowing visitors to still experience the chapel's original spatial qualities and sacred atmosphere.
One of the most striking design decisions was the introduction of bright colors, particularly a vivid blue staircase that creates a deliberate contrast with the historic stone and masonry. This bold color choice serves to highlight the surviving traces of the chapel's original architecture rather than compete with them, creating a dialogue between old and new that celebrates both eras.
The former apse has been repurposed as a dedicated space for a piano, transforming what was once the most sacred area of the chapel into the symbolic heart of the artistic residence. This thoughtful reuse merges the concepts of art and spirituality, maintaining the space's contemplative qualities while serving its new creative purpose.
Externally, the architects made a conscious decision to leave the chapel completely unchanged, preserving its authentic historical appearance. The existing landscaping and carefully framed views of the surrounding Tuscan countryside have been maintained to strengthen the ongoing dialogue between the architecture and its natural setting.
The project demonstrates how contemporary design can breathe new life into historic religious buildings without compromising their architectural integrity. By inserting modern amenities and living spaces within the original framework, the renovation creates a unique environment where artists can work and reside while being surrounded by centuries of history.
Photographer Carlotta Di Sandro's documentation of the completed project reveals how the bright blue metalwork and contemporary furnishings complement rather than clash with the ancient stone walls and traditional proportions. The wooden mezzanine level provides necessary sleeping quarters without disrupting the chapel's soaring ceiling lines.
This adaptive reuse project serves as a model for how historic religious buildings can find new purpose in the modern era while maintaining their essential character and contributing to contemporary cultural life through arts programming and creative residencies.
