When artist Erika Trojer and her husband, entrepreneur Vincenzo Schettino, decided to build a hideaway on Lake Como, they knew they couldn't improve on nature. Surrounded by a landscape of such spectacular beauty, they had all the inspiration they needed. So they designed Villa Torno to showcase the white stone that comes from the heart of Como's ring of mountains, with wide windows that frame sweeping views over the water.
Outside, the secluded location exudes tranquillity. Inside, Erika's symbol-rich sculptures, all created from recycled materials, sound anode to mother Earth. It all feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of Milan where the couple met at a party in the 1990s.
At that time, Erika, a MissItaly finalist, was pursuing a career as a model, but once she met the love of her life, she decided to put motherhood first. Their daughter Greta was followed by a son, Goffredo, and the family settled happily in the Lombardy town of Cernobbio, where they still live today. It was while bringing up her children – both now grown up – the former model discovered her talent for art, opening a studio on the site of an old bakery.
Named Spazio Forno, its output is known for its freshness of vision. Ten years ago, Villa Torno put the icing on the family's cake. Located in the charming fishing village of Torno, just the other side of the lake, it's ideal for lively parties and quiet weekends away.
And thanks to the speedboat and seaplane moored at their own private jetty,.