rocco borromini adds timber façade to stone ruins to create SV house in northern italy

architect rocco borromini has completed the design of ‘SV house’, a renovation project that involved the restoration of a set of stone ruins. located in northern italy, adjacent to the orobic alps, the dwelling offers sweeping views across the picturesque landscape. the simple structure comprises two existing stone walls connected by a reinforced concrete slab, while the upper storey, including its new façade and roof, is made of wood.

the renovation project involved the restoration of a set of stone ruins

rocco borromini chose to use brushed larch wood for the new elevation, which includes timber slats — a nod to the region’s alpine architecture. the ground floor contains a kitchen and living room, with a bedroom and bathroom found at the level above. the uppermost storey houses the master bedroom, a space which affords generous external views beneath the gable roofline. each of the property’s three storeys measure 22 square meters. 

the dwelling is located in northern italy, adjacent to the orobic alps

within the home, a series of intimate and comfortable spaces ensure a warm and inviting atmosphere, while limited space has been maximized throughout the scheme. a lightweight steel staircase positioned against the rear wall features transparent landings that allow natural light to permeate each area of the plan. although timber has been used for flooring on the upper storeys, the ground level features luserna stone, emphasizing a continuity between internal and external space.

the ground level features luserna stone, emphasizing a continuity between internal and external space

a lightweight steel staircase positioned against the rear wall features transparent landings

natural light is able to permeate each area of the plan

the uppermost storey houses the master bedroom

the residence offers sweeping views across the picturesque landscape

pale timbers have been used throughout the home’s interior

a series of intimate spaces ensure a warm and inviting atmosphere

the simple design comprises two existing stone walls

the second storey features a small external balcony

timber slats are a reference to the region’s alpine architecture

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