Tag: luxury guest house

Forget Balsamic Vinegar, Enter Art at Acetaia Maria Luigia in Modena

Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Modena, Acetaia Maria Luigia is more than just a haven for balsamic vinegar enthusiasts; it’s a sanctuary where art and culinary heritage seamlessly intertwine. The acetaia, part of Massimo Bottura and Lara Gilmore’s Casa Maria Luigia estate, offers visitors an immersive experience that transcends traditional vinegar tasting.

Here, centuries-old balsamic barrels share space with contemporary art installations by renowned artists such as Kehinde Wiley, Ingo Maurer, and Marc Quinn. These artistic masterpieces not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also enrich the sensory journey through the acetaia. Davide Groppi’s innovative lighting designs further elevate the environment, creating a poetic interplay of light and shadow that highlights both the art and the barrels.

Kehinde Wiley’s Tapestry: Known for his vibrant, large-scale paintings that reimagine classical portraiture with contemporary African American subjects, Kehinde Wiley’s work brings a modern twist to traditional aesthetics. His tapestry at Acetaia Maria Luigia features a dynamic scene of figures against a lush, patterned background, encapsulating his signature style of blending the past with the present.

Ingo Maurer’s Lighting Sculpture: A German industrial designer renowned for his whimsical and innovative lighting, Ingo Maurer’s installations at the acetaia are both functional and artistic. The sculptural lights, with their intricate designs and captivating glow, create a surreal ambiance that enhances the historic space of the vinegar cellar.

Joan Crous, originally from Catalonia, has been working for over 25 years between Barcelona and Bologna. With a multidisciplinary background in history and art from the Massana Art Academy in Barcelona, Crous specializes in glass art, having studied various techniques internationally. In 1994, he developed a unique glassworking technique that emphasizes human fragility and the fleeting nature of time. One of his notable projects, “Cenae,” initiated in 1996, poetically captures the convivial moment of dining and has been exhibited globally, including collaborations with Michelin-starred chefs. Crous continues to create thought-provoking art pieces that reflect contemporary society.

For more details, visit Joan Crous’ official website.

Davide Groppi’s Lighting Designs: The acetaia’s atmosphere is further enriched by the lighting artistry of Davide Groppi. His designs, such as the ANIMA and INFINITO lights, play with light and shadow to create an immersive sensory experience. Groppi’s work emphasizes minimalism and poetic expression, perfectly complementing the rustic yet refined setting of the acetaia.

Each visit to Acetaia Maria Luigia is a feast for the senses, where the deep, rich history of balsamic vinegar production meets the avant-garde creativity of modern art. Whether it’s the intricate tapestries, the whimsical lighting, or the stunning sculptures, every corner of the acetaia tells a story of passion, tradition, and innovation.

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For art lovers and food enthusiasts alike, Acetaia Maria Luigia offers a unique and unforgettable experience, redefining the concept of a traditional vinegar cellar. Here, the essence of Modena’s heritage is not just tasted but also seen, felt, and admired.

Discover more about this extraordinary fusion of art and gastronomy at Casa Maria Luigia and explore the detailed artistry on the Davide Groppi project page.

Discovering the Charm of Casa Maria Luigia in Modena, Italy

In the picturesque outskirts of Modena, just a short 20-minute drive from the city center and a mere 10-minute journey from the Modena Sud exit on the A1 highway, lies the enchanting country house, Casa Maria Luigia. This historic 18th-century residence, once left abandoned, was brought back to life by renowned chef Massimo Bottura and his wife, Lara Gilmore.

The Transformation Journey of Bottura & Gilmore

Having purchased this grand property at a court auction for 700,000 euros after five failed attempts, the couple had a vision. They wanted to offer guests the experience of the tranquil Italian countryside paired with world-class dining. They invested an additional million euros to restore and transform the once-decrepit villa into an exclusive guesthouse, which quickly became the go-to spot for corporate gatherings and group dinners.

Every corner of this villa reflects Bottura and Gilmore’s passions. From art installations by acclaimed artists like Andy Warhol and Doug Aitken to its Gucci wallpaper and decorative mirrors, Casa Maria Luigia exudes luxury and taste. The 12-room residence is spread over three floors, complete with a standalone bungalow, a tennis court, and a swimming pool. For music lovers, the listening room, boasting a vintage LP collection and Alessandro Mendini’s iconic Proust armchair, is a treat.

Gastronomic Delights: Francescana at Maria Luigia

Nestled within Casa Maria Luigia is its gem, the Francescana restaurant. Headed by the talented Canadian chef, Jessica Rosval, a veteran of Bottura’s Osteria Francescana team, this eatery offers an array of Bottura’s signature dishes. From a tasting menu with highlights like “Una compressione di pasta e fagioli” and “Tortellini come gesto sociale” priced at 330 €, to its wine pairing option for an additional 150 €, the culinary experience here is unparalleled.

The difference between this establishment and Osteria Francescana downtown? While the latter only serves newly created dishes that rotate biannually, Francescana at Maria Luigia celebrates Bottura’s iconic creations from over the years.

A Morning at Bottura’s

Mornings at Casa Maria Luigia are a delight. Guests are greeted with a hearty breakfast reminiscent of traditional Modenese farmer snacks. Picture freshly baked bread and focaccia from a wood-fired oven, paired with locally sourced ricotta. Not to mention, the variety of local specialties like cotechino, erbazzone, and aged Parmigiano Reggiano, ensuring guests start their day on a gastronomic high.

An Experience Beyond Stay & Food

But the surprises don’t stop at food. Venture into the playroom and you’ll discover a treasure trove of limited edition Ferrari cars, vintage Ducatis, Maseratis, and Lamborghinis. A nod to Bottura’s love for “slow food and fast cars.” The experience is further enhanced with a tour of the adjoining acetaia, where over 1,200 barrels of traditional balsamic vinegar of Modena are aged.

Luxury Stays

For those looking to immerse themselves in the full Casa Maria Luigia experience, accommodations range from the Festina Lente rooms priced at 340 € to the expansive Luigina bungalow at 2,500 €.

Known to attract a star-studded clientele, it’s rumored that celebrities like David Beckham and actor Patrick Dempsey have enjoyed stays here. So, whether you’re seeking a lavish escape or a gastronomic journey, Casa Maria Luigia awaits.