Before they moved, Sara and Fabio lived in the city, overwhelmed by the pressures and fast-paced rhythm of urban life. Over time, they began questioning the meaning of it all, eventually leaning toward degrowth—a slower, more mindful approach to living. After much thought, the choice was clear: a radical lifestyle change.

The couple decided to check out a farmhouse, and it was love at first sight. Nestled in a natural park, two kilometers from the nearest neighbor, it was the perfect spot for their project. Though initially in rough shape, they tackled the restoration process with determination, calling on friends and professionals to help out. This wasn’t just a logistical project; it was a life mission that embodied their vision of a more sustainable world in harmony with the environment.

Degrowth As a Lifestyle

Degrowth is a lifestyle that moves away from the cycle of consumerism and material accumulation in favor of a more minimalist, balanced, and sustainable way of living. Born as a critique of neoliberalism, this philosophy encourages us to cut back on excess and focus instead on meaningful relationships, holistic well-being, and respect for the environment. It’s not about deprivation; it’s about rethinking our priorities and centering our lives around what truly brings value and well-being.

Those who embrace decrescita felice favor local production and resource reuse, opting for self-production, fair trade, and long-lasting, sustainable products. This approach also encourages community solidarity, creating networks for sharing, supporting, and learning together. For example, through Solidarity Purchasing Groups (SPG), people can band together to buy directly from local producers at fair prices. Time banks let people exchange services and skills without using money, like a music lesson in return for some gardening help. Community gardens are another beautiful example, where residents can grow food together and share the harvests.

Finally, degrowth invites us to reconnect with nature, embracing activities that align with and honor the rhythms of the seasons and the cycles of the earth, to which we are naturally connected.

It’s truly a shift in perspective: finding joy in simplicity and caring for the world, where true wealth lies not in accumulation, but in the ability to live in balance with ourselves, others, and nature.

Self-Building: Challenges and Victories

After purchasing the farmhouse, Sara and Fabio dove into the renovation, starting with the smallest section. Self-building, though challenging, was a journey of learning and personal growth, where they picked up skills they never thought they’d need. With the help of their community and the knowledge gained along the way, they transformed the old building into a welcoming and functional home.

At the same time, they began an organic vegetable garden initially intended just to meet their needs, which eventually expanded into a small farm. Today, the garden serves as a sustainable source of income, providing organic products that they sell at local markets. Despite the isolation, their determination helped them overcome climatic and logistical challenges, creating a life that is both independent and fulfilling.

Energy Self-Sufficiency

One of Sara and Fabio’s main goals was to achieve energy self-sufficiency. With a desire to reduce their environmental impact, they decided to keep their home small, simplifying heating needs and improving energy efficiency. Thanks to an intelligent thermal system, they can heat their home and produce hot water with a wood-burning stove that distributes warmth evenly.

This setup, fueled by wood gathered from the surrounding land, is both eco-friendly and economical. Even in the coldest months, their home stays cozy, demonstrating how efficient resource management can make all the difference in everyday life.

Living with Less and Managing Resources

In choosing this lifestyle, Sara and Fabio adopted an approach based on a limited budget and self-sufficiency. With few means at their disposal, they focused on maximizing resources through thoughtful planning. This shift in mindset led them to cut unnecessary expenses, find a plot of land for rent, and initially live in a trailer, showing that even with limited resources, it’s possible to build a fulfilling, sustainable life.

Their story shows that with a bit of creativity and planning, it’s entirely possible to pursue a simpler, minimalist life without sacrificing comfort. For them, living with less also means having time to nurture relationships and do the things they love, like working the land and enjoying direct contact with nature.

Sharing and Learning

Even with a limited budget, Sara and Fabio discovered a richer quality of life, filled with organic food, time to engage in creative and community experiences, and the chance to learn new skills. To avoid isolation and share their journey, they created a community room and library, offering locals a gathering place to explore sustainable living together.

The farmhouse has become a welcoming space for the community, where residents can take part in artistic and social events and workshops, like learning to build a green roof and other eco-friendly solutions, building a network of support and shared growth.

In Conclusion

Sara and Fabio’s story shows us that, starting from an abandoned village and with limited budget, it’s possible to create a self-sufficient life in harmony with nature. Their farmhouse, set deep in the woods, has become more than just a home; it’s a haven of ideas and connection for those who seek a more authentic, sustainable way of life. Sara and Fabio embody the philosophy of degrowth, showing that slowing down and returning to essentials doesn’t mean giving up, but rather gaining fresh perspectives and meaningful relationships. Their journey serves as an inspiring call to anyone dreaming of a mindful path rooted in nature and community.