Tuscany in Late July: Staying in Italy’s First OOD House
The roads of Tuscany in late July unfold the way you hope they will — winding through endless vineyards, framed by olive groves, and dotted with stone villages that seem untouched by time. The light here does something special; it gives every curve of the hills a quiet, cinematic clarity that photographers dream about.
After exploring Sicily’s volcanic landscapes earlier that month, I made my way north to Spino Fiorito, a peaceful pocket of rural Tuscany and home to Italy’s first OOD House — a mirrored retreat that blends modern design with the region’s natural rhythm.
My first evening was spent in the main villa — the kind of rustic comfort that defines authentic Italian hospitality. Dinner came with a view of the vineyards and the kind of local food that needs no explanation — just good olive oil, fresh ingredients, and a glass of something red.
For someone who’s always drawn to how architecture interacts with nature, it was incredible to see that idea brought to life in Tuscany. The design reminded me of what I’d seen in the Mirrorcube in Sweden, which I wrote about in my post on Scandinavian architecture. But here, that same reflective concept takes on a Mediterranean spirit — one shaped by vineyards, sunlight, and slow living.
The next morning, I moved into the OOD House itself. From a distance, it almost disappears — its mirrored exterior reflecting vines, sky, and the soft motion of the day. Up close, it’s minimalist, refined, and surprisingly warm — a design built to live within the landscape rather than on top of it.
As a photographer, the reflections were endlessly interesting. Every hour looked different. Morning light turned the glass into gold; by afternoon, it blended completely into the view. It was both futuristic and timeless.
Meals here continued to be a highlight — fresh local produce, olive oil pressed nearby, and wines from the surrounding vineyards. I met the team behind the OOD project, who spoke about redefining rural stays in a way that honours tradition while embracing innovation.
When I finally left for Pisa, the contrast was immediate — from quiet vineyards to busy city squares. I spent my last few days travelling back. exploring the coast and on the last day inside the walls of Pisa, walking through the old streets, camera in hand, focusing on details more than landmarks.
Late July in Tuscany was about stillness, design, and perspective — seeing how architecture can reflect the land, and how travel slows everything down just enough to notice it.
