Casa Pellacini

The natural environment, with the forest behind and Lake Maggiore in front, is the element that inspired the design of a private residence in Levo, a small hamlet in Stresa (Verbania), built from prefabricated wooden elements by Rubner Haus. The project is based on the desire to create a home that is as sustainable and energy-efficient as possible. This goal is also reflected in the choice of materials such as Marazzi’s porcelain stoneware, installed extensively in the floors of the home, which not only makes it possible to organise and optimise the construction phases and reduce their time, but also to use materials certified by the criteria behind their production. As of today, Marazzi recovers 100% of waste and 120% of water in the production process and each porcelain stoneware collection uses between 30% and 40% recycled materials.

Situated at an altitude of 750 metres, the house occupies an area of 240 square metres on two levels and is entirely built from hardwood using the Blockhaus technique: a construction system that stacks solid spruce slabs without metal connections, interlocking them at the corners. This technique enables excellent sealing of the house, reinforced by the external thermal insulation, and permits a constant internal temperature of around 23 degrees. The electrical system and underfloor heating are powered by a system of solar and photovoltaic panels, giving the building an A4 energy classification.

The interior floor plan consists of a kind of open plan with small partition walls dividing the kitchen and living area. Open space and large openings are preferred to create a continuous interplay between outside and inside. This also applies to the large patio with a double-pitch roof on the entrance side, which allows for sheltered enjoyment of the surrounding landscape. Wood in a natural finish is the dominant element of the interior design: installed from the bare beams to the exposed ceilings, from the walls clad with fir slabs to the floors, covered with Treverkhome porcelain stoneware planks in the 20x120 cm size. The chosen shade, Betulla, very accurately rendered with birch wood’s typical grain and knots, brightens up the space, making it warm and natural. For a general feeling of peace and relaxation.


Ph. Alberto Franceschi