A “Hidden Gem” in the Heart of Leventina
Located in Faido, Ticino, this early 20th-century historic villa was born from a story of love and patronage. Commissioned by the Cattaneo family, renowned doctors, and made possible by the generous dowry of Elisa Gatti, a young and art-sensitive bride, the villa was designed as a combined residence and studio. It welcomed professionals, travelers, and artists traversing the Alpine axis between the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Not merely a building, this is a representative residence reflecting care, beauty, and public function.
Architecture & Period Details
The elegant, understated main façade leads into interiors rich with Art Nouveau references.
The villa features:
- Original stone staircase connecting the main floors
- Dome with rooftop terrace offering views of the Leventina landscape
- Rooms with wood paneling and period decorative painting
- Frescoes and rooms recently restored by professional conservators, revealing original colors, floral motifs, and period friezes
The original layout alternates representational rooms with more intimate spaces, typical of early 20th-century bourgeois residences.
Spaces & Functions
The property spans multiple levels (4 above ground) plus lower levels. The layout includes:
- 12 bedrooms
- 6 bathrooms, 2 showers, 2 bathtubs
- Large veranda-style kitchen suitable for entertaining and service
- Basement level with independent unit (historically medical/therapeutic studio) with separate entrance
- Internal garage with direct access
The private garden, with historic trees and stone paths, frames the villa and enhances its role as a place of care and hospitality.
Condition & Systems
The villa is habitable and in fair to good overall condition, consistent with its age. Heating is oil-based with radiators. This is a property that invites thoughtful restoration: intervene where needed, without altering its soul, and highlight existing elements such as frescoes, staircases, volumes, and natural light.
Key Facts
- Land: 2,038 m², zoning R3 (development index 0.6)
- Indicative volume: 3,569 m³
- Floor plans: not available
- 2020 valuation available (market value CHF 1,440,000)
- Asking price: CHF 1,600,000 (negotiable)
- Visits: by appointment
Why This Villa is a “Hidden Gem”
It combines documented history, authentic architecture, and spaces already adaptable for modern functions. The basement with independent access can be used as an atelier, professional office, wellness area, or suite. The main floors, with frescoed rooms and generous heights, are perfect for reception and charming hospitality. The rooftop terrace and garden complete the ideal setting for a boutique guesthouse, artist residence, or small cultural retreat.
Genius Loci: Then and Now
From the Cattaneo–Gatti couple’s vision of an open studio-home to its recent use for medical and therapeutic activities, this property has always nurtured a sense of care—for people, art, and relationships. The buyer inherits a living history: not a shell to redo, but a living organism to guide with sensitivity.
Documentation & Information
Multilingual photo dossier (7 languages) and 2020 valuation available upon request. Floor plans not available. For more information, visit the website.
Final Note
Sale is direct from the co-owners. Qualified inquiries are preferred, with a private negotiation focused on preserving the property’s historic and artistic value.
All photos, except the one from 1930, were taken on July 28, 2025.
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