My love of colour is well documented, so the allure of a day trip to the islands of Burano – one of the little archipelagos within the 177 islands that make up Venice – was irresistible.
Burano is famous for its brightly painted houses, and it’s not hard to see from the photos why it’s a magnet for, artists, designers, (and, these days, Instagram influencers) who make the pilgrimage on private boat or ferry seeking inspiration in Burano’s cacophony of colour!
Urban legend says that the locals painted their homes in distinctive hues so that when the fishermen returned to shore in Venice’s famously foggy weather, they would be able to find their own houses, (and so that they didn’t accidentally end up in the wrong bed)!
There are strict Government regulations dating back to the 16thCentury around the colours the residents are allowed to paint their homes, and homeowners have to seek approval before repainting. We do have restrictions on Heritage houses but imagine that broadstroke approach in home-improvement crazy Australia?
Would Burano’s picture-perfect pastels suit your home if you brought the idea back to Australia? Im quite sure it wouldn’t, but in Italy, with its particular light quality, and La Dolce Vita vibes, Burano’s colour bomb works, and attracts streams of tourists every year.
Megan Dougherty
Bravo Management Pty Ltd
Level 5, 111 Coventry Street,
Southbank VIC 3006
P: +61 (3) 8825 6641 (direct)
Blank Canvas Interiors
598-600, Burwood Road
Hawthorn East, VIC AUSTRALIA 3123