Peachy the Magazine August September 2014 | Page 36

La Dolce Vita Alina’s incredible eye for detail was very useful in overseeing the seven month construction and renovation process. Her creativity sparked at an early age making purses, scarves and dresses on her mother’s sewing machine and in her uncle’s atelier. Prior to starting her jewelry business, Designs by Alina, Alina worked in several creative industries in Europe, Asia and Latin America including working as a draftsman, in fashion and in television as a host, writer and producer. She has also taken several painting and figure drawing classes. Her creative fingerprints are evident throughout the house and gardens as Casa Ventalia. A stairwell reveals a charming niche to share family words of wisdom. The visible location allows the family to be reminded of them often. 34 PEACHYTHEMAGAZINE.COM Casa Ventalia draws Alina’s mother to visit each summer from Spain. She refers to the house as “Villa Alegria” because, she says, “all those who are in it are happy!” It has a beautiful soul that is a perfect reflection of the loving family that resides there. Joy abounds and laughter is everywhere… la dolce vita indeed! n