In the high-end real estate market, lakefront villas are among the most desirable asset classes in Europe, defined by scarcity, global demand, and long-term value appreciation.
In this context, this 19th-century silk mill, part of Dreamer’s The Iconic Collection, emerges as one of the most strategic and irreplaceable Lake Como villas for sale.
Set directly on the water, this exceptional lakefront property features a private dock, lakeside pool, panoramic views, 11 independent residences, and a level of versatility almost impossible to replicate on Lake Como.
For investors, it offers an extraordinary combination of architectural heritage, uniqueness, stable returns, and significant long-term appreciation. It embodies the definition of a legacy property: a waterfront villa with a documented history, dominant lakefront position, rare architectural features, and multi-use potential.
Explore the complete listing of Lakefront Estate with Pool and Private Dock in Como, including details, gallery, and property information.
Brienno: Where the Pure Essence of Lake Como Lives On
An Ancient Lakeside Celtic Village Suspended Between Water and Stone
On the western shore of Lake Como, between Laglio and Argegno, lies Brienno, a charming village where time seems to stand still. Here, stone, water, and silence create an atmosphere preserved through centuries.
Houses perched over the lake, tiny harbors, stone arches, and narrow passageways that suddenly open to expansive balconies above the water make Brienno one of the most photographed yet discreet corners of Lake Como, Italy.
It’s the ideal setting for those seeking privacy, beauty, and the timeless serenity only an authentic lakeside village can offer.
Lake Como: A Global Magnet for Luxury Real Estate
Lake Como is one of Europe’s leading prime and super-prime property markets. Its cinematic beauty, refined lifestyle, and seamless blend of nature and architecture have positioned it among the world’s most coveted destinations for luxury villas in Lake Como, Italy.
The demand for lakefront properties for sale remains consistently high for four main reasons:
- Extremely limited supply and growing global interest.
- Stable market performance with long-term appreciation.
- Strong income potential from luxury hospitality.
- Proximity to Milan, Switzerland, and international airports.
Buying a Lake Como villa means entering a world of international prestige.
Not surprisingly, the area has long been a retreat for influential figures, entrepreneurs, global investors, and entertainment icons. The presence of George Clooney and other high-profile owners has further elevated Lake Como’s reputation as a sanctuary of privacy, beauty, and understated Italian elegance.
In this landscape, waterfront properties with private docks and direct lake access represent the apex of desirability.
For more exceptional opportunities, explore our curated selection of Lake Como villas for sale.
A Heritage Lakefront Property on Lake Como Spanning Three Centuries
The origins of this remarkable lakeside villa date back to the late 1600s, while the structure we see today was built between 1847 and 1860 as a silk-spinning factory: an industry at the heart of Como’s heritage.
In the 1960s, one of Como’s most influential silk dynasties transformed the industrial building into a noble waterfront villa, giving the property new life and sophistication.
The recent restoration enhanced its historic charm: stone walls, high ceilings, exposed beams, and original architectural details now coexist with contemporary comforts such as an elevator, garage, and modern systems.
The iconic chimney, perfectly preserved, remains one of Brienno’s most photographed landmarks, a symbol no modern Lake Como luxury villa can imitate.
See the estate from its most breathtaking angle: watch the official skyview tour.
11 Independent Luxury Apartments Overlooking the Water
The property has undergone extensive, respectful, and refined restoration. The main building is now divided into 11 independent apartments, each with its own identity and characteristics:
- direct lake views;
- original balconies;
- exposed stone;
- premium materials;
- modern systems;
- bright living areas;
- peaceful, panoramic bedrooms.
Beside the main building stands the former residence of the mill workers, now meticulously restored and transformed into a micro-destination ideal for hosting guests, offering staff accommodations, or developing a boutique hospitality concept.
This is a true private hamlet within the village, with architecture found nowhere else among villas in Lake Como, Italy.
A True Pieds-dans-l’Eau Estate: Direct Lake Access, Private Dock & Lakeside Pool
The Rarest Privilege on Lake Como
On Lake Como, having direct water access is rare. A private dock is exceedingly rare. Having both, combined with historical architecture, places this property in a category of its own.
The original dock, once used to load silk onto the historic Comballi boats, is now the perfect departure point for:
- private boat tours;
- seamless arrivals and departures;
- fast transfers to Como, Cernobbio, Bellagio.
The lakeside pool, set in a panoramic garden, completes a property where history, lifestyle, and beauty merge into one of the most extraordinary lakefront villas available today.
A Prime Waterfront Villa Designed for Modern Living
The main villa, spanning approximately 600-800 sqm over two floors, features a stone porch, double living room, kitchen, utility area, a tavern, offices, several bedrooms, and bathrooms.
On the upper floor, a spectacular 200 sq m loft with ceilings up to 9 meters offers breathtaking lake views, perfect as a grand reception hall or private event space.
Private terraces, a lakeside garden with a pool, and the historic private dock complete this unparalleled lakefront property for sale.
Together with the 11 independent residences, the estate forms a rare Lake Como waterfront compound with exceptional versatility.
An Iconic Lakeside Asset With Exceptional Investment Value
A lakefront villa on Lake Como with such historic, architectural, and functional characteristics represents one of the most compelling investment opportunities in Italy’s luxury real estate market today.
Its strategic location, rental potential, uniqueness, and strong international appeal make it ideal for investors, family offices, and collectors seeking prime waterfront properties.
1. Absolute Scarcity of Similar Properties
The combination of unique features makes this villa on Lake Como a virtually one-of-a-kind property on the current market:
- direct lakefront position;
- documented history;
- 19th-century industrial architecture;
- contemporary restoration;
- private dock;
- large dimensions;
- 11 extra independent units.
2. High Income Potential
The 11 units enable multiple income strategies:
- luxury short-term rentals;
- extended-stay hospitality;
- boutique hotel concept;
- staff and guest accommodations.
3. A Lifestyle Asset With Global Appeal
Luxury villas on Lake Como, especially lakefront ones, have shown constant appreciation due to international demand. This former silk mill belongs to the very top tier of the market, offering a lifestyle made of:
- boat arrivals directly at home;
- lakefront breakfasts;
- alpine sunsets;
- total privacy;
- timeless authenticity.
It is a lifestyle that attracts an international target audience ready to invest in unique properties.
Learn more about emerging trends and new hubs of luxury real estate in our Dreamer Outlook 2026: Italy’s Luxury Real Estate Hotspots – Ones to Watch.
Dreamer Outlook 2026: Italy’s Luxury Real Estate Hotspots – Ones to Watch
A Lake Como Villa as a Heritage, a Sanctuary, an Investment
This Lake Como villa is an architectural legacy spanning three centuries and a private refuge set directly on the water. A self-contained world of privacy, scale, and rare amenities, unmatched even among the finest luxury villas Lake Como has to offer.
Those who choose a property like this understand the value of rarity. It is a timeless masterpiece, ready to write its next chapter.
Continue your journey through extraordinary architecture with The Iconic Collection, where every property embodies a story meant to be preserved.
