Isabella in her Florence studio, surrounded by texture samples and light studies

About Isabella Rossi

Curator, Interior Designer & Mediterranean Light Storyteller

I'm Isabella Rossi, and I believe that the most beautiful homes are those where light, heritage, and contemporary living dance together in perfect harmony. For the past decade, I've been curating Mediterranean properties that tell stories—of the artisans who shaped them, the light that defines them, and the lives that unfold within their walls.

10+Years curating
150+Properties featured
3Countries explored

My journey

From Florentine opera houses to Portuguese quintas—how I discovered my passion for Mediterranean light

2010

Opera House Beginnings

Started as a set designer for Florentine opera houses, learning how light and space create emotional narratives.

2015

Interior Design Studio

Founded bespoke interior design studio focusing on adaptive reuse of historical residences across Tuscany.

2018

Lisbon Discovery

Became resident artist at LX Factory in Lisbon, discovering Portuguese craftsmanship and Atlantic light.

2020

Mediterranean Light Launch

Launched the Mediterranean Light publication, combining property curation with artisan storytelling.

2025

Community Platform

Expanded to this interactive platform, connecting property seekers with artisans and stories.

My curation philosophy

Light as protagonist

Every space must choreograph natural light beautifully throughout the day, creating moments of magic.

Heritage with purpose

Historical elements should be preserved not as museum pieces, but as living parts of contemporary life.

Artisan connections

The makers behind each restoration are as important as the properties themselves—their stories matter.

Sensory storytelling

Properties should engage all senses—the texture of lime plaster, the scent of cedar, the sound of fountains.

"Every property I feature must pass the morning light test. I visit at dawn, watch how the sun moves through the spaces, and imagine the rituals that unfold there—the first coffee, the quiet moments of creation, the way shadows dance on ancient walls."
— Isabella Rossi

Areas of expertise

What I bring to every property story and restoration project

Light Studies

Analyzing how natural light moves through spaces and influences daily rhythms.

  • Seasonal light mapping
  • Window placement optimization
  • Skylight design consultation
  • Shadow play analysis

Heritage Restoration

Balancing historical preservation with contemporary functionality.

  • Traditional material sourcing
  • Adaptive reuse strategies
  • Conservation techniques
  • Modern integration methods

Artisan Networks

Connecting clients with master craftspeople across the Mediterranean.

  • Stonemason recommendations
  • Ceramicist collaborations
  • Traditional plasterer contacts
  • Metalwork specialists

Education & Training

BFA in Fine ArtsAccademia di Belle Arti di Firenze
MA Interior & Exhibition DesignPolitecnico di Milano
Traditional Restoration TechniquesUniversità degli Studi di Firenze

Professional Experience

Set DesignerFlorentine Opera Houses (2010-2015)
Bespoke Interior Design StudioHistorical Residences Specialist (2015-2020)
Guest LecturerMediterranean Material Culture

Let's connect

Whether you're seeking a Mediterranean escape, need restoration guidance, or want to share a remarkable property story

isabella@mediterraneanlight.com
Florence, Italy · Lisbon, Portugal