Yet another prestigious and challenging achievement for our company, whose mission is to illuminate outdoor spaces and transform them into settings of well-being. We are referring to the lighting project designed by Tono Architettura & Interior Design, which redesigned the access avenues and the paths surrounding the park of Castel Sonnino, a medieval-origin castle restored between 2023 and 2025. The castle stands on a promontory overlooking the sea, immersed in the stunning scenery of the Livorno coastline.
At the origin of the structure lies a medieval watchtower, still visible at the center of the building, which was later incorporated into a coastal defense battery.
The complex remained a garrison defending the coast until 1850 and was then purchased, towards the end of the century, by Baron Sidney Sonnino, who transformed it into a private residence while preserving its fortified appearance. It was Sonnino himself who landscaped the lush surrounding area, creating the paths that are still present today. The Baron chose this place because he was captivated by its intimacy with the sea and the surrounding nature, and he became so attached to it that he decided to be buried there, in a natural cave overlooking the cliff, where his tomb still lies today.
In 1987, the property passed from the heirs of Baron Sonnino to Engineer Sergio Pucciarini, a former Navy officer and entrepreneur.
To proceed with the lighting design project, it was necessary to reassess the park area, particularly the access roads to the structure and those surrounding the castle. Functional lighting for safety purposes had to be carefully considered and integrated with architectural lighting aimed at enhancing the site during the hours of darkness.
In order to highlight the unique features of this one-of-a-kind location, it was essential to find the right balance between a classic lighting fixture and technical specifications capable of enhancing the wonderful scenery of the avenues and surrounding greenery. The research focused on an elegant lighting fixture with simple lines, in harmony with the identity of the Castle itself, providing light that would enhance the colors of the illuminated spaces.
Sovil - Avenida Lanterns - Viale V2C Castel Sonnino
The classic Avenida street lantern by Sovil was therefore selected, carefully designed and customized to fully meet the designer’s requirements, both in terms of surface finish, optics, and LED technology. The choice of the Avenida street lantern was also made thanks to its high performance, ensured by the various optical solutions available, its durability, and its surface treatment—like all Sovil fixtures—featuring a specific cataphoresis anti-corrosion process suitable for heavy-duty applications. The Corten-colored finish integrates perfectly with the environment and the Castle’s architecture. A final key feature required by the desired lighting scenarios was the selected light source: high-efficiency, long-lasting LEDs with a 2700K color temperature.
Thanks to the versatility of the chosen product and its ability to customize its lighting fixtures, Sovil was able to meet all the design requirements. Sovil’s technicians also supported and assisted the designer throughout the various phases of the project.
The result has been the creation of a unique and evocative atmosphere that further enhances the beauty of Castel Sonnino, already enchanting for its structure and location.
The project and its execution were made possible thanks to the collaboration between Sovil and one of its local distributors, L’Elettrica di Empoli, whom the company thanks for the trust shown.
Sovil also wishes to thank all the parties involved who shared in this journey and contributed to the excellent result, especially the ownership of Castel Sonnino for their choice, gracious hospitality, and collaboration.
