studio inebi renovates 1950's 'calascino' summer house in switzerland

studio inebi has renovated a summer house built in 1955 on the slope above brissago, in switzerland, with minimal interventions that maintain its original character. titled ‘calascino’, the project comprises two buildings accessible only via a footpath: the main, 1950s construction; and an even older, smaller stone house called ‘rustico’. the buildings’ proximity to the forest and the wide views in front add to the unique character of the place. with minimal interventions in the building structure, the swiss studio created a series of new spaces throughout.all images by lukas schlatter

studio inebi has transformed the 1950’s construction into a peaceful guest house made suitable for use all year round. though the house is completely wrapped with insulation from the outside and new plastering, its original exterior appearance has been retained. at the same time, former outer walls become defining elements in different areas of the interior.

located on a slope, the two buildings benefit from wide views and the proximity to the nearby forest. since the property is only accessible on foot, all transports for the construction work were carried out with the help of a helicopter. while inebi studio retained the original appearance of the ‘rustico’ building on the outside, interiors have been transformed with new rooms and perspectives. a new staircase has been created, which connects the two different levels, while new wall elements only touch the outer walls selectively in order to maintain their well-preserved qualities.

project info:

name: calascino

architect: studio inebi

location: brissago, switzerland

client: philipp löpfe and denise marquard