Aleksandra Boszke and Natasha Stężycka from the Faculty of Architecture at the Gdansk University of Technology won an honorable mention in the international architectural competition "Lighthouse Hotel" organized by Terraviva Competitions. The challenge was to transform an abandoned lighthouse on the Italian island of San Domino into an exclusive boutique hotel. The young architects' project, titled "In the back of beyond" ("At the edge of the world"), was recognized for its innovation and respect for the unique context of the site.
axonometry
© Aleksandra Boszke, Natasha Stężycka
from lighthouse to luxury asylum
Aleksandra Boszke and Natasha Stężycka's work is a vision of a hotel offering visitors an escape from the everyday hustleandbustle. The historic lighthouse on the island of San Domino was designed by the authors as the focal point of a boutique hotel - a place where history meets modern design, and the island's rugged nature harmonizes with sophisticated architecture.
visualization
© Aleksandra Boszke, Natasha Stężycka
The project involves the restoration of a lighthouse and its adaptation into a leisure space, from which almost every part of the building opens up to panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea. The minimalist aesthetic of the interiors, muted colors and use of natural light give the space a tranquil character that promotes tranquility and regeneration. A pergola that lets in daylight gives the hotel a bright and open atmosphere, while allowing the interior to subtly connect with the surrounding nature.
lighthouse
© Aleksandra Boszke, Natasha Stężycka
slow life philosophy at the center of the experience
The main idea of the project is to create a space that celebrates simplicity and allows guests/guests to slow down. The boutique hotel on San Domino Island was designed as a place where the rhythm of life is dictated by nature. Mornings can begin with yoga on the lighthouse terrace, where the sunrise paints the sky with delicate shades of pink and gold.
Another element emphasizing the "slow life" philosophy is the interactive culinary workshops. Guests can not only taste local dishes, but also learn to prepare them on their own, using regional ingredients. Evening dinners on the terrace at sunset become an opportunity to celebrate moments that will be remembered for a long time.
wall layout
© Aleksandra Boszke, Natalia Stężycka
wellness surrounded by nature
The "At the Edge of the World" project also includes a wellness area, which was designed as a place for complete relaxation. A detoxifying Jacuzzi located on a terrace overlooking the Adriatic Sea is a space where guests can enjoy both luxury and direct contact with nature. The dry sauna, made of local wood, fits in with the idea of healthy relaxation, promoting physical and mental well-being.
bedroom
© Aleksandra Boszke, Natasha Stężycka
For those who want to stimulate their creativity, the hotel offers art workshops. Painting landscapes outdoors captures the island's beauty on canvas, while pottery classes provide a sensory experience working with clay that reflects the textures and shapes of the natural surroundings.
sustainable luxury in every detail
The design of the Gdansk University of Technology students is distinguished by its approach to sustainable design. The use of local materials, such as pine wood from Aleppo and white Trani stone, not only minimizes the environmental impact of construction, but also reinforces the identity of the site. A green roof and lush vegetation on the terraces improve the building's thermal efficiency while blending the hotel into the surrounding island landscape.
dining room
© Aleksandra Boszke, Natasha Stężycka
The artisanal nature of the interiors is highlighted by details such as hand-burnished tiles and textiles made from natural fibers. Every element of the project was carefully designed to emphasize both luxury and a deep respect for local heritage.
"In the back of beyond" is a project that offers visitors much more than a place to relax. It is a space that encourages visitors to explore the beauty of nature, reflect and appreciate simple pleasures.
corridor
© Aleksandra Boszke, Natasha Stężycka