The Next Venue Destination for Jacquemus Fashion Show
Project: Casa Malaparte
Studio: Adalberto Libera, Curzio Malaparte
Status: Completed between 1938-1943
Location: Punta Masullo, Capri
Photography: architecture-history.org, elledecor
On June 10th, 2024, Jacquemus Fashion Brand hosted his cruise collection fashion show at Casa Malaparte, a stunning architectural masterpiece on the cliffs of Capri. This unique villa, designed between 1938 and 1943 by Italian architect Adalberto Libera and writer Curzio Malaparte, exemplifies the harmony between human creativity and nature.
The villa, also known as Casa Malaparte, is not just an architectural icon but a testament to the complex relationship between its creator and the architect. Initially designed by Adalberto Libera, the project saw significant alterations by Curzio Malaparte himself. Dissatisfied with Libera’s initial plans, which he found too rational and bunker-like, Malaparte took charge of the construction, incorporating his vision and local craftsmanship to bring his dream house to life.
Located on Punta Massullo on the eastern side of Capri, Italy, Casa Malaparte sits atop a daring 32-meter-high cliff overlooking the Gulf of Salerno. Accessing the villa requires a one-and-a-half-hour hike from the Piazzetta de Capri or a challenging boat ride followed by a 99-step staircase. This remote and almost inaccessible site was deliberately chosen by Malaparte to symbolize the solitude and love he desired in his retreat.
Casa Malaparte is partly carved into the rock, aiming to become one with the cliff and landscape. The rooftop can be “hiked,” continuing the natural paths, blurring the lines between the house and its surroundings. Inside, the house frames stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the rocky outcrops, turning windows into live, ever-changing artworks.
The villa is divided into three levels plus a rooftop terrace. The terrace, accessible via a trapezoidal staircase, offers breathtaking sea views. Below, the guest rooms and a Tyrolean-inspired room with a wood stove provide cozy retreats. The master bedrooms and bathrooms, decorated in Pompeian style, connect through an atrium that serves as a modern, archaic, and romantic reception space.
This large atrium, reminiscent of a small castle courtyard, features a fireplace with a glass back wall, allowing views of the ocean through the flames. This special glass was designed to withstand high temperatures and was sourced from the Zeiss factory in Jena. The walls also showcase a large relief seemingly inspired by ancient temple facades.
The house’s structure employs Mediterranean masonry techniques using terracotta bricks, stone, and cement. The exterior facades are painted Pompeii red, while the interiors are predominantly white. Rough stone slabs cover the main floors, with ceramics decorating the bedrooms, bathrooms, and atrium. Marble is also used in various spaces, and the windows feature special refractory glass framed in wood.
Casa Malaparte stands as an architectural wonder, born from the vision of Curzio Malaparte and the collaboration with Adalberto Libera. It is a historical monument and a case study for architects and enthusiasts worldwide. Today, as Jacquemus showcases his cruise collection against this stunning backdrop, Casa Malaparte continues to inspire and captivate with its perfect blend of design and nature.
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