Suspended between the steep slopes of Valtellina and the ordered pattern of the Sassella vineyards, Casa B manifests itself as a precise gesture, born from matter to be translated into architecture. Designed by architect Alfredo Vanotti, founder of the e|v|a studio, the residence is located in Castione Andevenno and presents itself as a profound and contemporary interpretation of the dialogue between the built environment and the landscape.
The project moves away from abstract or idealized visions and is rooted in reality: it is the granite on which the land is based, the curvature of the vineyard rows, the randomness of the solids and voids of the village behind that constitute the primary grammar of the intervention. Casa B does not impose itself, but emerges as a geometric and material synthesis of its surroundings, translating the elements of the context into pure but not cold architectural forms, instead, strongly linked to the genius loci.
The tectonics of the building are articulated around a cantilevered platform, which juts out over the slope, dominating the valley. Incised by a pool and segmented by precise green geometries, it defines a protective walled courtyard, within which distinct but balanced volumes develop, like pieces of a complex organism. The facades and the courtyard are punctuated by a regular rhythm of larch pine planks, which respond to the ruggedness of the place with a warm and living materiality.
In stark contrast and at the same time in dialogue, is the system of openings: large windows, ribbon cuts, and glass balustrades, which reflect the landscape and welcome it into the interior spaces, ensuring visual and perceptual continuity between inside and out. It is not just about transparency, but a true interpenetration between architecture and nature, between private space and the open horizon.
The house positions itself as an exercise in balance and measure, where matter, light, void, and geometry merge to build a conscious, respectful, and poetic way of living. The project, in fact, is distinguished by its ability to root architecture to the landscape without imitating it, but returning a filtered, transformed, constructed essence.
Alfredo Vanotti – e|v|a studio
Founded in Sondrio in 2009, architect Alfredo Vanotti’s e|v|a studio is a practice that works between architecture and interior design, with an eye towards environmental and cultural sustainability. Each project arises from the desire to restore an identity to spaces that is capable of reflecting the place and its inhabitants. With an essential and material language, the studio explores the balance between form and function, technique and beauty.
For more info: www.alfredovanottiarchitetto.it
CREDITS
Project: Casa B
Architect: Alfredo Vanotti – e|v|a studio
Location: Castione Andevenno (SO), Italy
Year: 2022
Photography: Marcello Mariana
