Direct sale by the co-owners — a "diamond in the rough" in the heart of the Leventina Valley. In Faido (Ticino), a historic villa from the early 1900s is born from a story of love and patronage: it was commissioned by the Cattaneo family, highly respected physicians, and made possible by the substantial dowry of Elisa Gatti, a cultured young bride with a keen interest in art. The residence was conceived as a home-studio and a place of hospitality: a salon open to professionals, travelers, and artists who, between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, crossed the Alpine axis. Not just a simple building, therefore, but a prestigious residence designed to reflect care, beauty, and public function. Architecture & Period Details The simple and elegant main façade leads to an interior rich in Art Nouveau references: an original stone staircase connecting the main floors; a dome with a roof terrace offering views of the Leventina landscape; halls with wood paneling and period paintings; frescoes and rooms that have recently been restored by professional restorers, restoring the original colors, floral motifs, and friezes typical of the period. The villa retains its original layout and the pleasant alternation of formal rooms and more intimate spaces, typical of bourgeois residences of the early 20th century. Spaces & Functions The property extends over multiple levels (4 floors above ground), as well as lower levels. The layout includes: 12 bedrooms; 6 bathrooms, 2 showers, 2 bathtubs; a large veranda-style kitchen, suitable for entertaining and serving guests; a lower level with an independent operational unit (historically a medical/therapy office) with a separate entrance; an internal garage with direct access. The private garden, with historic trees and stone paths, frames the building and enhances its vocation as a place of care and hospitality. Condition & Facilities The house is habitable and presents a fair to good overall condition, consistent with its age. Oil-fired central heating with radiators is provided. This is a home that invites thoughtful restoration: work where necessary, without altering its soul, enhancing what already exists (frescoes, staircase, volumes, brightness). Key Information Land: 2,038 m², zone R3 (exploitation index 0.6). Approximate volume: 3,569 m³. Floor plans: not available. 2020 appraisal available (market value CHF 1,440,000). Asking price: CHF 1,600,000 (negotiable). Viewings: by appointment. Why this villa is a "diamond in the rough" Because it combines documented history, authentic architecture, and spaces already designed for contemporary functions. The ground floor, with its independent access, allows for the creation of an atelier, professional studio, wellness area, or suite; the main floors, with frescoed rooms and generous ceiling heights, are perfect for receptions and charming hospitality. The rooftop terrace and garden complete an ideal ensemble for a maison d'hôtes, artist residence, small cultural center, or retreat where the experience is the true protagonist. Condition & Facilities The house is habitable and presents a fair to good overall condition, consistent with its age. Oil-fired central heating with radiators is provided. This is a home that invites thoughtful restoration: work where necessary, without altering its soul, enhancing what already exists (frescoes, staircase, volumes, brightness). Key Information Land: 2,038 m², zone R3 (exploitation index 0.6). Approximate volume: 3,569 m³. Floor plans: not available. 2020 appraisal available (market value CHF 1,440,000). Asking price: CHF 1,600,000 (negotiable). Viewings: by appointment. Why this villa is a "diamond in the rough" Because it combines documented history, authentic architecture, and spaces already designed for contemporary functions. The ground floor, with its independent access, allows for the creation of an atelier, professional studio, wellness area, or suite; the main floors, with frescoed rooms and generous ceiling heights, are perfect for receptions and charming hospitality. The rooftop terrace and garden complete an ideal ensemble for a maison d'hôtes, artist residence, small cultural center, or retreat where the experience is the true protagonist.