Owning a slice of Italian charm sounds like a dream for many. For Meredith Tabbone, it became a reality.
Back in 2019, she stumbled across an unusual opportunity:
homes in Sambuca di Sicilia, a small town in Italy, were being auctioned for as little as 1 euro. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect.
While researching her family history, Tabbone discovered that her great-grandfather hailed from this very town. It felt like destiny.
A few months later, Tabbone purchased one of the homes, placing a bid of 5,555 euros. What she didn’t anticipate was the massive renovation it required.
The property was in shambles — no electricity, no running water, and a roof containing asbestos. Yet, she wasn’t discouraged.
Shortly after, she bought the neighboring property for 22,000 euros, combining the two to create her dream vacation home.
From Ruin to a Stunning Retreat
Renovating wasn’t just about fixing a house; it was about bringing a vision to life. Tabbone worked closely with a local team, starting with structural updates.
They leveled floors, added steel beams for earthquake resistance, and built terraces for outdoor dining. Each space was carefully planned to blend modern comforts with the home’s original character.
The finished house boasts four bedrooms, a sleek modern kitchen, a library, and even a sauna.
Outdoor terraces offer views of the Sicilian countryside, complete with a pizza oven for al fresco dining. The renovation process, which spanned four years, cost a total of 425,000 euros.
More Than a House
For Tabbone, this isn’t just a vacation home. It’s a connection to her roots and a tribute to her father, an architect who inspired her creativity.
She calls it “a bridge between past and future.” The home will remain in her family, with plans to donate it to the town of Sambuca someday.
Despite the investment, Tabbone says it was worth every penny.
“This house taught me to focus on what truly matters—community, history, and living with joy.”
