Moving to Italy can feel overwhelming. From finding the right property and understanding the buying process to planning a renovation, there are plenty of questions, and not always clear answers.
Below you’ll find a collection of short videos featuring real retreat guests and homeowners sharing their experiences, along with highlights from some of our favourite renovation projects. Hear why people chose Italy, what they enjoyed most about our Move to Italy Retreat, and see how neglected properties have been transformed into beautiful homes.
Whether you’re dreaming of buying your first Italian property or planning your own renovation, we hope their experiences inspire you to begin your own Italian journey.
From Retreat Guests to Home Owners
From Move to Italy Retreat guests taking their first steps, to homeowners transforming neglected properties into beautiful Italian homes, we’ve been privileged to be part of some incredible journeys.
Every story is different, but they all began with the same dream: creating a life in Italy.
Jay & Eden: Our Country Casa
When Jay and Eden first joined us from Colorado USA, they were full of excitement but had plenty of questions. Today they’re happily settled in Le Marche, renovating their own Italian home and enjoying the lifestyle they’d always hoped for.
Hear their story in their own words.
Peter & Linda: Our House with Land
After dreaming of life in Italy for many years, Peter and Linda travelled from Northern Ireland to join our Move to Italy Retreat and gain the confidence and knowledge they needed. They went on to buy their own home in Le Marche and haven’t looked back.
Watch how their Italian adventure became a reality.
Move to Italy Retreat Guests
Our Move to Italy Retreat is designed to give you the confidence, knowledge and local connections to take the next step. But don’t just take our word for it, hear directly from the people who joined us and experienced it for themselves.
Why We Want to Move to Italy
Everyone arrives with a different dream. Whether it’s a slower pace of life, restoring an old farmhouse, retiring in the sunshine or starting a completely new chapter, our guests share what inspired them to make the move.
What to Expect
From expert seminars and property tours to truffle hunting, cooking experiences and meeting trusted local professionals, discover the parts of the retreat that our guests enjoyed the most.
What Our Guests Think
There’s no better recommendation than hearing honest feedback from people who’ve been there. Listen to what our guests thought of the retreat and how it helped them feel more confident about moving to Italy.
Meet Past Attendees
Curious what a typical retreat is really like? Join us behind the scenes for a glimpse of the experience—from exploring beautiful villages and viewing properties to sharing meals, laughter and unforgettable moments together.
Renovation Projects
Every Italian home has its own story. Over the years we’ve restored everything from centuries-old timber beams and traditional shutters to forgotten courtyards, modern kitchens and complete room transformations.
Explore some of our favourite projects and discover how we combine traditional craftsmanship with practical modern living.
Ceiling Beams
Discover how original timber beams can be carefully restored to reveal the character and history hidden beneath years of paint, plaster and neglect.
Courtyard Restoration
See how tired outdoor spaces can be transformed into beautiful courtyards that are perfect for relaxing, entertaining and enjoying the Italian lifestyle.
Terrazzo Makeover
A stunning example of how traditional terrazzo flooring can be cleaned, restored and brought back to life, preserving one of Italy’s most iconic features.
Window Shutter Restoration
Original shutters are full of charm and craftsmanship. Watch the restoration process as worn timber is carefully repaired, prepared and painted for many more years of use.
Kitchen Renovation
From dated layouts to stylish, practical living spaces, see how thoughtful design can create a kitchen that’s both beautiful and functional.
Open Living Transformation
Removing walls and reimagining the layout can completely change the feel of a home. Discover how this renovation created a brighter, more sociable living space.
Bedroom Makeovers
Simple design choices, quality finishes and carefully selected materials can transform a bedroom into a calm, welcoming retreat.
Bathroom Makeovers
From compact shower rooms to luxurious bathrooms, these transformations show how even the smallest spaces can become practical, elegant and full of character.
© Copyright 2025 D&G Design