In Sardinia, a Showcase for Craft and Culture Rises From Ruins

Kyre Chenven and Ivano Atzori have transformed an abandoned 19th-century farmstead in southern Sardinia into Luxi Bia, a vibrant rural retreat that celebrates the local culture and natural environment. The couple, who moved from Tuscany to Sardinia in 2014, spent nearly five years purchasing the cluster of ruined houses, which were typical of the agrarian communities in the region. Their dedication to maintaining the authenticity of a traditional furriadroxu meant overcoming the complexities of Sardinian hereditary laws that often divide properties room by room among heirs. Chenven, originally from San Diego and a former set designer, alongside her husband, a Milan native and former graffiti artist known as Dumbo, embarked on this project due to their fascination with the island's deep-rooted history and unique culture. Luxi Bia now offers visitors an opportunity to engage with the heritage of Sardinia, shaped by its historical isolation from the mainland, fostering a distinct and resilient culture.