House Call: Slow Living at La Casita - Remodelista
It was the first time I’ve ever been jealous of doll furniture. Since then I have been an avid follower of Alessandra via La Casita, her blog in which she chronicles her home and creations.
Born of an Italian father and Argentinian mother, Alessandra grew up by the sea coast of Cinque Terre and studied painting.
In our correspondence Alessandra informed me that in Italian “taccia,” her last name, is the imperative third person of the verb tacere: to be silent.
Alessandra prefers natural materials–linen, wool, ceramics, and wood–like these simple, utilitarian objects in her kitchen.
Being “often on the move”–the family lived in London before they relocated to their current rental–Alessandra edited down all of their possessions “to only what is really needed, either because it’s useful or because it holds a memory we’re fond of.
For this reason I try to buy handmade things that are respectful of the environment, that are beautifully made, and designed to be passed on to the next generation.” Over the dining table, a flock mobile by Bookhou is an example of the accents that speak to Alessandra.
Alessandra’s mother was an accomplished seamstress and knitter who passed on these skills to her daughter. Other small-production items pictured here include ceramics from Analogue Life and a small wood plate by Caroline Gomez.
On the table, a mitt crocheted by Alessandra and a wooden trivet made by fellow blogger Xenia of Eau de Nil complement a perfect cup of tea.
A leather pull and beaded key ring accessorize a £10 thrift store cupboard; Alessandra painted the piece a succession of Farrow & Ball shades before settling on white.
Alessandra’s so-so sofa was a victim of one of her recent edits. Adding a diminutive table by Spielplatz, a low-hung midcentury pendant lamp, and one of her own crocheted throws hung on a Nakagawa hanger ($38.50 from Hubu Textiles), Alessandra created a space that’s both minimal and intimate.
Alessandra displays ceramics by her daughter on a living room shelf alongside a wire crown they made together.
A mood board in Alessandra’s office includes natural specimens and favorite prints.
Hand-knit and crocheted items adorn Alessandra’s daughter’s room.
In a corner a vintage Dryad chair sits under Alessandra’s own woven pieces (available at her online shop) and an landscape print from Fine Little Day.
