alfredo vanotti's B house embraces open courtyard οverlooking sassella vineyards in italy

house b by Alfredo Vanotti

In the picturesque Sassella vineyards of Valtellina, Italy, Alfredo Vanotti recently completed House B, creating a harmonious dialogue between architecture and its surroundings. The dwelling seamlessly merges with its natural environment, incorporating elements such as the granite terrain, rows of vines, and the village of Castione into a cohesive structure on a steep slope. The focus on materiality is evident in the orderly arrangement of larch pine slats that define the façades and courtyard. The design strives for a rhythmic interplay between solidity and openness, transparency, and reflectivity, fostering a connection between the interior and exterior spaces. Strategically situated to blend with the landscape, the villa integrates visual cues from bell towers and ancient mountain huts into its scenic backdrop. The architectural layout of the house unfolds in three distinct sections, with a designated square for the living area and a diagonally cut rectangle for the entrance and garage, creating a deep open courtyard. This orientation aligns with the south-facing pool, maximizing panoramic views.

all images by Marcello Mariana

navigating between tradition and modernity

Vanotti’s commitment to fine design is evident in the arranged volumes, challenging the orthodox functionalism of the 20th century. Casa B draws inspiration from the architectural legacy of the region, incorporating features seen in rural villages like open courtyards, perimeter walls, and dwelling volumes clad in continuous staves. While Vanotti’s architecture reflects a vernacular influence, it rises above mere revivalism. Rooted in a tradition of fine craftsmanship, his design language dissolves the modernist notion of ‘Less is More’ into an intricate work that resonates with both local and international elements. The compositions unveiled in Vanotti’s work reveal a distinctive identity that extends beyond the confines of Alpine architecture. Simultaneously, the influence of Mies Van der Rohe is palpable, especially in the treatment of eaves lines. Although Casa B doesn’t strictly adhere to this treatment, there’s a subtle nod to the minimalist German master. The design team emphasizes that the house internalizes external clashes of forms, resulting in sculptural treatments such as the open courtyard and corridor. These elements contribute to dynamic perspectives and enrich spatial experiences within the house.

a rhythmic pattern of larch pine slats marks the façades and the open courtyard

Casa serves not just as a dwelling but as a holistic space for living, contemplation, and wellness, integrating common functions with a deep connection to the landscape and the natural essence of the place. Navigating the balance between tradition and modernity, the residence becomes an immersive experience, acknowledging the enduring collaboration between human intervention and the forces shaping the Rhaetian vineyards. The team employs architectural elements like the open courtyard and corridor to absorb external tensions and enhance the internal spatial experience. The landscape, according to the architects, isn’t just a backdrop but a vital part of the architectural narrative, reflecting the longstanding partnership between human craftsmanship, seen in the construction of vine terraces, and geological forces, including the erosive effects of glaciations. Casa B incorporates historical elements, like the 17th-century parish church bell tower, demonstrating a respectful approach to integrating a new structure into a landscape of cultural and natural value.

the large windows ensure a seamless connection between the interior and the exterior