Energy efficiency
Natural ventilation and environmental comfort
Passive design
CONTRAST
HOUSE 126
CLIENT
Private
TYPE
Residential building
YEAR
2023
SURFACE AREA
350 m2
CERTIFICATION/ENERGY CLASS
Klimahouse A
STATUS
Completed
ARCHITECTURE TEAM
Arch. Alexandr Platon
Arch. Agnese Alfonsi
PHOTO
Francesca Iovene
MANUFACTURERS
General contractor and timber construction: Oberrauch GmbH S.r.l.
Windows: Askeen s.r.l.
Reinforced concrete: Ediltione s.p.a.
Electrical project: Hofer Reinhard
Thermal-hydraulic project: Unterweger Siegfried
This house is located in a residential area built in 1960 on the northern shore of an Alpine lake and blends elegantly into a residential context characterised by single-family homes amidst green spaces. The project involves the renovation and expansion of an existing building, combining functionality with durable form to meet the homeowners' desire to create an ecologically sustainable house that harmoniously integrates with the surrounding landscape. "We wanted to create a place that reflects harmony with nature and has a minimal impact on the environment," says architect Marco Sette.
The building consists of two separate flats: one on the ground floor and one on the first floor, which are designed in a dialogue between privacy and openness. The living area on the ground floor overlooks the garden, while the living space on the first floor opens up to the south with large windows. „This architecture celebrates the encounter between man and nature,“ says the owner of House 126. The building is divided into two different volumes. The first, northern part has a smooth, light-coloured plaster finish, reminiscent of the archetype of a traditional house. The second, southern part is characterised by a dark, textured plaster that creates a visual dialogue with the land and reinforces the concept of contrast between the two elements.
Architecture and environment
The layout of the rooms is designed to maximise natural light and ensure living comfort. On the ground floor, the living area faces east and embraces the garden, while the living space on the first floor opens up to the south with three large windows, creating a direct connection with the lake view. The windows are positioned to encourage natural ventilation and keep the rooms cool in the hot summer months. A panoramic terrace is integrated into the pitched and flat roof, offering unrivalled views of the lake.
The access road and pedestrian entrance to the property are from the west side, allowing the building to be constructed in the northwestern corner of the plot. This enables optimal sun exposure for the garden, which is located on the east and south sides. The decision to keep the plot free of buildings in favour of a green area results in a compact and clearly defined volume that is in harmony with the functional requirements of the interior spaces.
The design is based on the predominant use of wood, a material that contributes to the health of the residents. Taking into account the proximity to the lake, a reinforced concrete base was chosen to guarantee stability. Thermal insulation is provided by a layer of rock wool. The simple and functional forms of the building, with a raised floor that exposes the ground, invite a lush garden. The compact volumetry, defined by an elegant interplay of light and dark materials, reflects the intention to harmonise with the landscape.
Particular attention was paid to sustainability: Thermal insulation is provided by a rock wool insulation layer, the energy requirements for heating and hot water production are met by an air-to-water heat pump, while the installation of a controlled mechanical ventilation system with heat recovery ensures healthy air.
In addition, the project includes the installation of solar thermal panels on the carport roof and photovoltaic panels on the building itself, demonstrating a strong commitment to energy efficiency. The roof of the building has been designed to perfectly integrate the necessary functions: a flat part with a terrace offering a magnificent view of the lake and a tilted roof.
The building achieves energy class A+ and proves that it is possible to live in harmony with nature without compromising on comfort and aesthetics.
Construction
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