Italian dream: tiny house unearths hidden levels in ancient town

Nestled in the Liguria region of Italy, a 592-square-foot home has been reimagined across six levels, revealing architectural secrets hidden for centuries. The renovation of the 17th-century property in Parasio, a town untouched by mass tourism, has garnered attention for its ingenious use of space and a touch of the mystical.

Hidden chambers and a touch of the unusual

Architect Davide Andracco initially viewed the Imperia house as a challenging project. “It was in really bad shape, but I sensed its potential,” he explains. The renovation unearthed a surprising cistern beneath the floor, a common feature in buildings of the era, and a previously hidden level accessible through a sloped ceiling. This discovery allowed for the creation of a study and an additional space for a bed or desk, respectively – essential additions given the property’s diminutive footprint.

The home’s layout is a vertical journey, a series of ascending and descending platforms connecting the six levels. Exposed stone walls and original chestnut beams are prominent throughout, lending the space a sense of history and character. Andracco prioritized natural light, a vital element in making the compact home feel airy and spacious.

But the renovation wasn't without unique requests. The homeowner, influenced by warnings about radiation, insisted on incorporating barite stones into the design. These dense rocks, sourced from Switzerland, are believed to offer protection against harmful rays and enhance psychic abilities – a personal touch woven into the fabric of the home.

The use of a limited palette of materials – stone, wood, and carefully chosen finishes – created a surprising sense of uniformity across the different levels. A sofa carved from a masonry base serves as both a functional piece and a striking design element. The restored original brick ceiling in the bathroom, paired with a white partition wall, adds a touch of warmth to the space.

The vertical connections between spaces evoke the optical illusions of M.C. Escher’s architectural drawings, creating a disorienting yet captivating experience. The project demonstrates that even within the most constrained spaces, creativity and a deep respect for history can yield extraordinary results. The final result? A tranquil retreat that feels worlds away from the bustling Italian Riviera.

The renovation of the Parasio home is a testament to the power of thoughtful design and the enduring appeal of historical Architecture. It proves you don't need a sprawling estate to create a truly remarkable living space.

The project was originally published in AD Italy.

Architect: Davide Andracco

Photographer: Anna Positano

Published: March 28, 2026