The restoration of an early 20th century barn in Val Tidone, Italy led to this characteristic project led by Park Associati, which combines traditional and contemporary architecture. A typical farm house has been transformed into a three-storey, 5, 382 square foot (500 square meters) holiday home without radically altering its original form. A simple architectural style has been chosen to successfully respond to the housing needs of a large family. The horizontal and vertical connection of the surfaces are enhanced by the glass covered passageway-cum-yard and the particular design of the staircase (the key element of the project) which together provide a sense of continuity for the circulation between the interior spaces. The reuse of local materials of raw concrete and brick backdrop to new elements, ranging from innovative insulation systems to the integration of natural ventilation systems to the intricate heating system of stoves and chimneys enable the project to resolve clearly and effectively the requirements of all-season living. The winter woodshed is the only new construction on the site which is entirely clad in wood, apart from the front facing the house which is in corten steel.

Photos: Andrea Martiradonna