This modern, elegant villa in Canali, a neighborhood on the south side of the Italian city of Reggio Emilia, sits in the shadow of the Apennine mountains. The result of my vision is a three story property which includes three bedrooms and four bathrooms, is inspired by high-end Brazialian and Californian architecture, particularly the work of John Lautner. "I wanted to create something simple yet sophisticated" I like to say "to play with modest architecture, but clad it in rich and warm materials".. The first of the materials to catch the eye is the traditional-looking stone of the facade. It's actually Geopietra, a pre cut stone veneer that's simply glued in place. It is used in the veranda and on the wall in the living area, which has a mid-century modern feel. Wood is the dominant texture in the double-height dining space. A continuous flow of American walnut begins at the bottom of the spiral staircase, covering most of the ceiling and culminating in a wood-clad bathroom upstairs. This considered use of materials reduces the need for further architectural ornamentation. Pieces that Christopher created for the property, including the wall-to-wll shelving unit and fireplace in the living room, mingle comfortably with an enviable catalogue of designer pieces, including Eloro seating by Rodolfo Dordoni for Cassina, Eames and Panton chairs by Vitra and Superarchimoon floor light by Flos. "A house needs to fit like a tailored suit in terms of layout, materials and furniture"