Get to know us
Studio Sernella was founded by Boy Marcelis and Jennifer Kenters, a couple who moved to Italy in 2023 with a shared dream: to develop properties that blend an old soul with modern design.
How did your story begin?
It all began in 2016, not surprisingly on a construction site where our love sparked and we discovered our great teamwork. However, we soon realized it was best for our relationship to pursue separate professional paths. While Boy led major restoration projects, Jennifer ventured into entrepreneurship, focusing on exclusive interiors. Yet, when our own renovation project (in the citycenter of Leiden) came along, we were reminded of how well we complement each other—Boy with his precision in craftsmanship and Jennifer with her ability to see the soul of a space.
Why did you move from NL to IT?
During several road trips through Italy, we fell in love with Piemonte and revised our plan from owning a holiday home to moving there full-time. This decision allowed us to manage our projects firsthand, immerse ourselves in the culture by mastering the language, and embrace a life away from the rushed life in NL.
What have you learned so far in Italy that is important for your way of working?
Restoring our Italian home in Nizza Monferrato has taught us the importance of understanding the local approach to business. We keep a sharp focus on deadlines and results while embracing the Italian way of working. This experience has given us unique insights into the complexities faced by those living abroad while buying and renovating a property in Italy.
Our dream in a vision
We envision Studio Sernella expanding its reach throughout Piemonte, not only owning and operating vacation homes and retreat locations but also offering these turnkey Italian homes for sale. Each property serves as an exquisite getaway and a platform for community building, personal freedom, and creative expression through workshops and special events. This approach allows us to offer unique opportunities for those looking to own a piece of Italy’s charm.
Jennifer Kenters
FOUNDERI was educated as an interior designer hold a Bachelor of Built Environment in Building Engineering, a rare but fitting combination for me. I create environments that embrace you, ensuring every detail is perfect.
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Boy Marcelis
FOUNDERI was educated as a restoration carpenter and later specialized as a restoration expert, skills that were perfect in my work as a site manager. With a keen eye for proportions, I ensure that each design enhances the architectural integrity of the space.
connect onWhat others say about us:
- Hanneke van Niele | Matterhome
“Jennifer stands with passion and energy for her unique profession! One of a kind as a woman in the male-dominated construction world. Chapeaux!”
- Djaranda Vennink | Djaranda Interiors
“Jennifer is a captivating woman, sincere, authentic, and
possesses a tremendous wealth of knowledge and experience.”
- Erik & Lisa | Owner B&B / Reisstel.nl
“We never thought that the preliminary phase of a renovation could cause so much stress, and we couldn't have wished for better partners with Boy & Jennifer. Or, by now, we even dare to say, better friends.”
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