The Tuscan lifestyle, aptly referred to by the Toscana Country Club as “la dolce vita” (the sweet life) is found throughout the club.  “Bill’s vision (William Bone, founder and chairman of the board, Sunrise Company) was to add a casual, contemporary environment and dining options to Toscana’s unique Italian-inspired, lifestyle experience,” explains Toscana architect Robert J. Altevers, founder and managing principal, Altevers Associates. The spacious new restaurant, La Cucina, with its display chef’s kitchen complete with pizza oven, overlooks the expansive view of the resort pool and one of the Club’s two Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Courses, does just that.  “We like to create environments within environments,” continues Altevers. “Members can easily go from golf, to the spa, relax by the pool, play some tennis, pickleball, bocce ball or workout without leaving their own slice of Italy.”

La Cucina, Toscana’s newest casual restaurant offers multiple settings that include a lounge, a large wraparound bar, complete with hanging flat screen TVs. Dining is available at the bar as well as high and low top tables throughout the lounge and restaurant. Disappearing pocket doors open to a covered terrace and an outdoor garden terrace where members can dine, enjoy cocktails and watch the setting sun over the Santa Rosa mountains at the long linear fire feature.  Il Caffè is the new Italian-inspired coffee bar where members find a friendly barista serving coffee, specialty drinks, juices and pastries.

“I have worked with Bob (Robert J. Altevers) for more than four decades,” says Toscana visionary and real estate developer William “Bill” Bone. “His ability to understand my vision and add to it, creates a dynamic that is at once creative, expansive and enjoyable,” he continues. “This most recent phase of our desert jewel captures the heart of what I always envisioned for Toscana – an integrated lifestyle community, rich with activities, two signature golf courses, fine and casual dining options and an unparalleled spa experience. The culmination of this unique relaxing atmosphere allows members with their families and guests to unwind and enjoy themselves in what is for many, their home away from home.”

The excitement among the members was palatable during opening weekend. This newest phase brings a resort feel to this highly sought after, prestigious club.  The interiors, designed by Altevers International, created a positive buzz that built to its own crescendo by the end of the opening weekend festivities. “We were going for a fresh, contemporary look that was harmonious with the Italian-inspired open architecture and stunning views,” explains Aimee Altevers, director of interior design, Altevers International.  “From the light-colored flooring, walls and high ceilings to the choice of furniture, artwork, finishes and the stunning floating glass wine refrigerator, each detail was meticulously chosen and placed to complement the environment and set the stage for the member indoor/outdoor experience,” she continues.