Tour Lorraine Bracco’s Stunning, Historic Sicilian Home

Two houses. Five months. One incredible makeover. Get a peek inside Lorraine Bracco’s newly renovated historic Sicilian home, including the dreamy kitchen big enough to prepare pasta meals for her family and friends.

November 13, 2020

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Cozy on the Corner

Lorraine Bracco purchased this home for only 1 euro — plus, the house next door for $50,000 — in hopes of transforming the property into the ultimate Italian getaway. (Mission accomplished!) Let’s step inside for a better look.

Tile Work

The door tiles are a nod to Lorraine’s father, who worked at the Fulton Fish Market in New York.

Warm Welcome

There’s plenty of space for Lorraine’s guests to make themselves at home, including this cozy seating nook next to the entryway.

Saving History

Lorraine worked with her contractor, Piero, to save as much of the original tile as possible, and the 200-year-old pieces are on full display in the living room.

Unique Touches

Another special find: this antique window, which hints at the long history of Lorraine’s new home.

All in the Details

Lorraine opted for sliding doors, which create an easy flow from the main bedroom to the rest of the house. The bedroom is filled with noteworthy features: exposed beams, a gorgeous chandelier and an archway above the windows, which adds an extra layer of character.

Calming Space

Just outside the entrance to the bathroom, the sink is *chef’s kiss*.

Best Bathroom in Town

Before the renovation, there was no bathroom (yikes). Now, it’s the perfect oasis for Lorraine after a long day of exploring the sights of Sambuca. "That’s not very common in Italy, to have such a big shower," says Piero. (No kidding, Piero!)

Charming Courtyard

Lorraine wanted the courtyard to have an "Old Italy" vibe, complete with custom stone flooring.

Custom Water Feature

"This is my favorite thing," Lorraine says of the water feature, which was crafted by hand to give it an authentic look.

Romantic Staircase

We’ll say it: this staircase is so cool. Piero and his team were able to salvage many of the original bricks, and we love the final product.

The Loft

Another room in the house that didn’t exist prior to the renovation: the loft. In this space, Lorraine added reclaimed doors and vintage sconces to enhance the Old World charm. (Of course, the furniture is brand new!)

Just Like New

This former antique chest was painted with a fresh coat and now functions as a side table.

Terrace With a View

The terrace, located just off the guest bathroom, is the ideal spot for sipping on wine with pals and taking in the surrounding countryside.

Ping-Pong Room

Lorraine will tell you that every house needs a Ping-Pong room — and she’s not wrong. Piero managed to get a handle on the plumbing issues that plagued this space, and now, it’s ready for Lorraine’s grandchildren to enjoy.

Last But Not Least

They say the kitchen is the most important room in a house, and Lorraine’s is no exception. The last space to be completed by Piero and crew — mostly because it’s not easy hauling American-sized appliances through a second-story window — this room now feels like the heart of the home. (Spotted: more original floor tiles.)

Prep Kitchen

Lorraine will no doubt put her newly acquired pasta-making skills to good use in the prep kitchen, which is filled wall-to-wall with storage space and other essentials.

Local Creations

The dining area features ceramic plates and bowls crafted by local artisans.

Drinks All 'Round

Decorated with antique lamps and hanging crate shelves, this bar makes great use of the area between the prep kitchen and the dining space.

Dancing in the Street

The end of the renovation was cause for celebration for the entire town — literally, there were people dancing in the streets.

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Photo By: Megan Daley

My Big Italian Adventure