Home Tour: Lo Scoglio is the Epitome of Sicilian Soul
Lo Scoglio in the Hinterland of Byron Bay is a testament to heritage, sustainability, and collaboration, offering guests an unforgettable experience that focuses on wellness in a luxurious setting.
In the dark depths of winter, it’s hard not to feel a pang of envy when our social media feeds are flooded with photos from the European summer.
Well, the good news is that there’s a stunning new Italian-inspired home in the breathtaking beauty of the Byron Bay Hinterland, where you can get all the joys of Italian living minus the 24-hour flight.
Just ten minutes out of Byron Bay, Lo Scoglio was created by Angelica and Charlie Arnott as a luxury escape that reflects the soul of Sicily and the spirit of regenerative living. Situated on two acres of a sprawling private sanctuary on Coopers Shoot, the four-bedroom home has quickly become the go-to destination for those wanting a taste of Europe Down Under.
A Taste of Europe Down Under
The vision for Lo Scoglio was sparked by Angelica’s deep connection to her Sicilian roots. “Lo Scoglio was created from the desire to pay homage to Angelica’s Sicilian heritage, honouring traditional artisans and craftsmen, and the desire to leave a legacy not just for our immediate family but for generations to come,” says co-founder Charlie Arnott.
This profound respect for tradition is woven into every corner of the villa, resulting in a space that feels both timeless and welcoming. When Angelica and Charlie first acquired the property, they faced the challenge of transforming it into their dream retreat while maintaining its original charm. As regenerative farmers, their approach was inherently sustainable.
“We were very considerate regarding the process of building; it was through the lens of regeneration and land stewardship that we decided to renovate the existing house to keep the footprint,” explains Angelica and Charlie.
Craftsmanship & Collaboration
This thoughtful renovation took two and a half years to complete, culminating in an opening that exceeded all expectations.
The creation of Lo Scoglio was a collaborative effort, bringing together a team of skilled artisans and craftsmen who shared the founders’ goal. A pivotal partner in this journey was Byron-based homewares store Tigmi Trading, whose custom pieces added an unforgettable touch to the villa’s decor.
“Danielle, the owner of Tigmi Trading, is a good friend, and we collaborated on the design. When it came to custom furniture influenced by my Italian heritage, Dan could interpret and create pieces that spoke to the space and the Italian aesthetic,” the couple recounts.
Throughout the villa, bespoke pieces that tell a story of craftsmanship and sustainability can be found in every corner. Every material was carefully chosen, from rare upcycled bridge timbers to stone sourced from the property.
“It was of utmost importance to us to choose materials that would stand the test of time, organic in nature. Stone, timber, and steel are the foundational materials, and they create a sense of permanence,” the founders note.
Lo Scoglio is designed to accommodate up to 12 guests, including children, making it an ideal destination for big groups or families. Each room has its own character and charm, offering a unique experience for every visitor.
The main Visconte suite, for instance, provides a private workspace with stunning views, while the Princepessa suite exudes romantic, feminine energy. The Contessa suite pays homage to old-world Italy, and the Bambini room is playful and fun, perfect for children.
Unwind & Recharge
A stay at Lo Scoglio is an invitation to unwind and recharge. “We wanted to create a space where guests could essentially choose their own adventure and pace,” says the couple.
Whether lounging by the pool, indulging in wellness treatments, or exploring the property’s quiet corners, guests are encouraged to disconnect from the world and reconnect with themselves. The villa’s stellar wellness offerings include a fully equipped gym, an ice bath, and an infrared sauna, ensuring guests can maintain their fitness and relaxation routines.
The influence of Angelica’s Sicilian heritage is evident throughout the property. The surrounding stone wall, reminiscent of a villa on Stromboli, evokes a deep sense of place and history. “Our builder, carpenters, stonemason, and all the artisans and craftsmen understood our vision,” they share.
The result is a harmonious fusion of modern luxury and traditional craftsmanship, where materials like brass, marble, and lush velvets create a rich, textured aesthetic.
Reflecting on the process, Angelica and Charlie are most proud of the relationships built during the project. “The communication and respect that culminated in a magnificent end product are what we cherish the most,” they affirm.
PROJECT CREDITS:
Interior Styling: Louella Boîtel-Gill @louellaboitelgill, Tigmi Trading @tigmitrading and Angelica Arnott @angelicaarnott
Build: Skyline Projects @skyline.projects
Landscaping: Land Company @land.company
Photography: Alicia Taylor @aliciataylorphotography
Words: Bella Brennan, @bellarosebrennan
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