Former Nigerian gemstone dealer Thelma West has transformed a historic Italian estate into a breathtaking boutique hotel. Her property, Casina Cinquepozzi, opened this spring on 40 acres in Puglia, Italy. The eco-luxury hotel features its own vineyard, olive grove, and sustainably restored 18th-century farmhouse.
West co-founded the boutique hotel with her husband, Stefano Liotta, a Naples native and former Apple executive. Together, they have created a unique hospitality experience that blends luxury accommodations with sustainable tourism practices. The project represents West’s transition from jewelry design to hospitality and property restoration.
From Lagos Gem Dealer to Italian Hospitality Pioneer
West’s journey from Lagos to London and finally to Puglia showcases her entrepreneurial spirit and creative vision. Her background in gemstone dealing provided valuable experience in restoration and design principles. She applies similar techniques to her hotel project that she used in jewelry restoration work.
“I work a lot with old pieces where I have to take the best bits and give it new life,” West explained to Robb Report. This philosophy guided her approach to transforming the historic Italian property. Rather than completely changing the estate, she focused on preserving its authentic character and charm.
The Lagos native brings her Nigerian heritage and global perspective to Italian hospitality. Her multicultural background influences the hotel’s design aesthetic and guest experience. West successfully bridges different cultures while respecting the local Puglia traditions and landscape.
Historic 18th-Century Farmhouse Gets Sustainable Makeover
Casina Cinquepozzi takes its name from the five historic wells discovered on the property. These ancient features reflect the estate’s deep connection to Puglia’s agricultural heritage. West and Liotta carefully preserved these wells as part of their thoughtful restoration process.
The 18th-century farmhouse required extensive restoration work while maintaining its original architectural integrity. West collaborated closely with local artisans to ensure authentic restoration techniques were used throughout. This partnership honored both the building’s history and the region’s traditional craftsmanship methods.
“When we discovered this place, the mission wasn’t to change it,” West emphasized about their restoration philosophy. Instead, they focused on enhancing existing features and adding sustainable improvements. The result is a harmonious blend of historic charm and modern eco-friendly amenities.
Luxury Meets Sustainability in Boutique Hotel Design
The hotel showcases hand-painted ceilings, traditional ceramic tiles, and custom-made furniture throughout its rooms. Local artisans crafted these decorative elements using traditional Puglia techniques and materials. Every design choice reflects West’s commitment to supporting local craftsmanship and sustainable practices.
Custom furniture pieces are made from locally sourced materials, reducing environmental impact while supporting regional suppliers. These thoughtful design choices add to the hotel’s luxury sustainability factor. Guests experience authentic Italian craftsmanship while enjoying modern comfort and convenience.
Each room tells its own unique story through carefully curated design elements and historical features. West’s background in jewelry design influences her attention to detail and aesthetic choices. The result is a collection of distinctive spaces that celebrate both Nigerian and Italian cultural influences.
Estate Produces Organic Wine and Olive Oil for Guests
The 40-acre estate includes productive vineyard and olive grove areas that supply the hotel’s restaurant. Guests can enjoy estate-produced organic olive oil made from trees growing on the property. This farm-to-table approach ensures the freshest possible ingredients for all meals and tastings.
Wine and olive oil tastings are offered directly from the on-site vineyard and olive grove. These experiences connect guests with Puglia’s agricultural traditions and seasonal rhythms. The tastings provide educational opportunities about sustainable farming practices and local food production methods.
Regenerative farming practices are used throughout the estate to maintain soil health and biodiversity. This approach supports long-term environmental sustainability while producing high-quality agricultural products. Guests witness firsthand how luxury hospitality can coexist with responsible land stewardship.
Eco-Friendly Operations Run on Energy-Efficient Systems
The boutique hotel operates using energy-efficient systems that minimize environmental impact while maintaining luxury standards. Solar panels, efficient lighting, and smart climate control reduce the property’s carbon footprint. These technological improvements are seamlessly integrated into the historic architecture.
Water conservation measures include rainwater collection and efficient irrigation systems for the vineyard and olive grove. The hotel’s eco-friendly model demonstrates how sustainable practices can enhance rather than compromise guest experiences. Every operational decision considers both environmental impact and guest comfort.
Waste reduction programs include composting organic materials and minimizing single-use items throughout the property. Local sourcing reduces transportation emissions while supporting the regional economy. These comprehensive sustainability measures position Casina Cinquepozzi as a leader in eco-luxury hospitality.
Daily Life on the Estate Offers Peaceful Connection with Nature
West finds deep satisfaction in her daily routines on the Italian estate. “I step outside. In Puglia, it’s simple: I just go for a walk through the vineyard or the olive grove,” she shared. These morning walks provide peaceful moments of connection with the natural landscape.
The silence and tranquility of the estate offer a stark contrast to busy city life. “I sort of get lost enjoying that silence,” West explained about her daily nature walks. This peaceful environment becomes part of the guest experience at Casina Cinquepozzi.
Even when in London, West maintains her connection to nature through her home’s garden spaces. She mentioned having “a room called the nest” that opens to gardens where she spends quiet moments. This appreciation for natural beauty influences how she designs guest experiences at the Italian property.
Cultural Bridge Between Nigerian Heritage and Italian Traditions
West’s Nigerian roots bring unique perspective to Italian hospitality and design choices. Her multicultural background allows her to appreciate and blend different cultural aesthetics successfully. The hotel reflects this cultural fusion while respecting local Puglia traditions and customs.
The property celebrates both West’s heritage and the local Italian culture through thoughtful design and programming choices. Guests experience this cultural richness through art, cuisine, and hospitality approaches. This authentic cultural exchange enhances the overall luxury travel experience.
West’s journey from Lagos gem dealer to Italian hotel owner inspires other entrepreneurs seeking international opportunities. Her success demonstrates how cultural diversity can strengthen rather than complicate business ventures. The hotel serves as a beautiful example of cross-cultural collaboration and respect.
