Among the most recent and fascinating projects of SUPERFUTUREDESIGN* and ASZ Architetti is the conversion of an old manor house into a set of three large contemporary apartments. This renovation project, not only involves changing the interiors of the original villa, but also a reinterpretation of the architectural structure, finding new habitable space in a totally reinvented distribution scheme.
Nestled in the level of a valley, this villa is immersed in a large green park, with huge ancient trees that give the perfect surroundings and ambiance on the outside. The core idea behind the design strategy is to absorb the calmness of the surroundings inside the villa.
The client’s family requested the 2000 sq. m property to be conserved in its peculiar heritage value, yet distinctly designed for the three relatives that would stay together, with their families. Thus, the challenge was to create a villa that was unified in spirit and overall charm and at the same time segregated into parts and designed according to the taste of the three different characters.
SUPERFUTUREDESIGN* took on this challenge and came up with a unique approach to transform the traditional manner into loft styled duplex apartments. In doing so, they upheld their ideology of lending a touch of contemporary class with functionality to keep the property at pace with modern taste, yet not losing out on its old-world charm. In the process, they chose a minimalistic feel to accentuate the architectural features of the property and minimized the use of furniture and furnishings to highlight the tectonic features without overloading the space.
SUPERFUTUREDESIGN* treated each section of the property according to the sense and sensibility of the families and managed to create an organic connection between these three distinct regions. Each of the three sections is being designed while keeping the aesthetics of the individual section in mind. At the same time, these three sections are being made in a way that the aesthetics and appeal of the ensemble remain coherent and synchronized in appeal and in spirit.
Situated in the wing of the manor that faces south, this unit is the only one to benefit from a volume extension that strongly characterizes the façade. Technically working as a greenhouse that, this volume addition provides a precious gain in abatable surface and also performs a passive solar energy function.
Such extension houses the kitchen/dining area that has been given an open layout to maximize the available space and to increase the lightness perception throughout. In the adjoining region, a tasteful family room was created to devote the level for family get-togethers, entertainment and fun ,and frolic. Ceiling height glass panels were installed on the south side open to the swimming pool and letting in as much natural light as possible. Matching the sensibilities of this area, the interiors were furnished with natural greens in ceramic planters to give an animated and friendly vibe. The color tones were kept light and muted.
At the first floor the loft effect takes place. At first site the architect remained so Intrigued by the authoritative presence of the wooden roof structures, that they had no doubt keeping them exposed, thus giving the space such a strong characterization. All the rest of the interior design rotates around these main elements, which typical name is “capriate”: the very same element that you find in heritage barns, churches and palaces around Italy. A real blessing to the property, that gave also the designers a clear direction on how to interpret the space.
The master bedroom is static and well centered, keeping the purity of the open volume, just with a freestanding element to protect the bed area. The opposite girls’ section instead has tween bedrooms that rump up to mezzanines, giving this area a more dynamic tenor and fulfilling that desire you have to live such a beautiful space in all its wholeness.
The icing on the cake, this unit is the only one to have another upper floor, into the former pigeons’ tower. Accessible through a small spiral staircase, the small room is perfectly lit by a round-shaped window, that opens a dramatic view over the property garden and the far horizon of the valley.
But natural light is so very much engraved in SUPERFUTUREDSIGN* vision, that every other space is designed accordingly: you would find the bathrooms with clean and open spaces, ample natural light, white linen, and big mirrors to reflect the sunlight. Likewise, the rooms are designed to tap the benefit of astounding views from the big windows and maximizing space by using the most contemporary cabinets and multi-purpose furniture.
The designing and renovation of this Italian Villa rely heavily on the use of natural materials and sustainable practices. Judicious use of wood, glass, and stone has resulted in the creation of spaces that exude warmth, freshness, and illumination without relying too much on energy. Yet another challenge that was successfully tackled and overcome was to comply with the earthquake-proofing guidelines. This was done by decreasing the weight of the two slabs that were originally suspended from the ceiling. Overall, SUPERFUTUREDESIGN* has aced the transformation of this Villa by utilizing the advantage of the location and appeal of the property and blending it perfectly with modern styling on heritage amenities. The minimal use of furniture has allowed maximum space exploration, without compromising on the aesthetic appeal of the place, making it warm and friendly. Sensible use of natural greens inside the villa, coupled with ample natural light and ventilation, manages to retain the natural beauty and accentuates the character of the place.