A detached villa with exposed reinforced concrete overlooking Lake Maggiore in Ranco

About This Project

Demolition and reconstruction of a residential complex on the lake

The project was carried out in Ranco, on Lake Maggiore, and involved the complete demolition of a small holiday residential complex and the subsequent construction of a detached house with an adjoining garage.
The project stands out for its use of exposed reinforced concrete, the large glass walls facing the lake and a flat reinforced concrete roof with wide overhanging eaves, which emphasise the horizontal lines and the direct connection with the landscape.

Structural solutions and architectural concept

The project involved the partial reuse of the existing foundations and swimming pool, which were integrated into the new structure to highlight the site’s original features.
This decision made it possible to reduce the environmental impact and optimise the construction phases, whilst preserving part of the site’s historical heritage.

The exposed reinforced concrete structure gives the building a strong architectural identity and a sculptural presence within the landscape.
The large glazed walls facing the lake maximise natural light and open up the interior spaces to the outside, creating a visual continuum between the house and the landscape.
The flat reinforced concrete roof, with large overhanging eaves, protects the glazing and provides a distinctive architectural feature, emphasising the building’s modern design language.

Construction details and high-quality finishes

At the client’s request, the finish of the reinforced concrete was to be smoother and more even than the traditional ‘béton brut’ effect.
During the casting phase, perfectly smooth formwork panels were used, and the concrete was vibrated with great precision, eliminating air bubbles and achieving a uniform, compact surface.
The result is an elegant and refined finish, which retains the textural quality of the concrete but with a more contemporary character.

The flat roof has been planted to create a green roof capable of reducing the visual impact within the surroundings and improving the building’s thermal performance.
This solution allows the villa to blend harmoniously with the natural environment of Lake Maggiore, reducing overheating in summer and promoting sustainability.

Materials and interior design: flooring and material continuity

A microcement finish was used for the interior flooring in the living area and the outdoor spaces, chosen for its visual uniformity, durability and ease of cleaning.
In the bedrooms area, however, natural wood parquet was laid to introduce a warmer and more comfortable element.
The same wood species has been used in the panelling and interior finishes, creating a consistent dialogue between materials and spaces.

Design collaboration and results

The project is the result of close collaboration between the architect, structural engineer and heating and ventilation engineer, which has enabled every aspect of the construction and building services to be developed with the utmost precision.
The result is a villa with a minimalist, contemporary style, combining architectural rigour, energy efficiency and integration with the landscape.
A project that offers a modern interpretation of lakeside architecture, striking a perfect balance between form, materials and sustainability.