Unobtrusively sited on the eastern edge of a large garden, the “Alvano“ house does not encroach on the extensive parkland as would a more centrally placed structure. This solitary, two-storey building, echoes typical nordic architecture, its pure lines blending fully with the natural surrounds.
The materials were also chosen with harmonisation in mind: white plastered walls and various size windows with thermally separated steel and moveable shading elements in corten steel.
The visitor approaches the main entrance along a granite strip running parallel to the southern boundary where parking space for two cars is provided. A full volume entrance hall connects both levels as well as creating an ample art gallery area.
On the ground floor, sliding partitions allow for variable space enlargement. Nearby but separate are the guest apartment and housekeeping area.
On the first level, similarly interlinked rooms offer full user flexibility. The corridor connecting the rooms receives daylight through a glazed roof-light, further enhancing interior versatility.
The interior finishing materials – Duralit industrial floor covering, marble-clad bathrooms, plastered walls, steel windows, steel balustrades and clear glazed fair-faced concrete ceilings – also highlight the theme of reduction and simplicity.
The east, south and north façades have conventional windows in contrast to the west façade which opens up completely onto the garden. Easy-to-slide shading elements that can be oriented according to sun angle and season are a characteristic feature, making the interior life readable from the outside.
Designed for a couple with two children, Alvano house prides itself on being an unpretentious complement to its natural surrounds, fitting into and not dominating its environment.
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