A few kilometers from Brescia, in the heart of the Po Valley, stands Villa Noal, a single-family residence that exemplifies a virtuous case of zero-impact demolition and reconstruction on the land. Designed by Andrea Benedetti for Panificio – Laboratorio Artigianale di Architettura, the villa stems from the desire to transform a 1970s existing structure into a contemporary architecture capable of combining sustainability, efficiency, and beauty.
The intervention rigorously reinterprets the concept of “villa,” translating it into a balanced and harmonious gesture: a spacious building that is perfectly integrated into the plot thanks to a composition that emphasizes proportions, solar orientation, and natural resources. The building is conceived to be energy-autonomous and resilient through the adoption of passive technologies and high-performance systems. Porches, overhangs, rainwater collection tanks, and low-consumption fixtures define a home where environmental intelligence is central, without sacrificing a refined aesthetic.
One of the distinctive elements of the project is the cladding in Credaro stone, laid horizontally to accentuate the building’s line. This material, typical of Lombard construction tradition, establishes a deep dialogue with the local landscape and enhances the tactile and material qualities of the architecture. Outside, the stone blocks host functions such as the outdoor kitchen and support services for the pool, expanding the usability of the spaces during the summer season.
Inside, the house is organized around three compositional axes. From the glass entrance portal by Oikos, a perspective view opens, crossing the entire building up to the garden, establishing a direct relationship between interior and exterior. The second axis connects the living area to the master suite, enhanced by a play of reflections created by a mirror with an infinite effect, which amplifies the perception of space. The third axis, aligned along the north-south direction, links the main living functions to the suspended staircase leading to the basement, made fully habitable by a double-height space and a large glass wall that floods the rooms with natural light.
Villa Noal is the outcome of a bespoke design vision, interpreting living as an ethical act before an aesthetic one. Every choice, from materials to space planning, reflects Panificio’s commitment to craft architecture—sustainable, artisanal, and tailored—capable of responding to contemporary needs without forgetting the value of memory and context.
Founded by architect Andrea Benedetti, Panificio Laboratorio Artigianale di Architettura is a design workshop that combines family tradition, attention to sustainability, and meticulous detail. From urban regeneration to bespoke construction, every project is conceived as a custom-made garment for the client, with a deeply human and conscious approach.
CREDITS
Project: Villa Noal
Architect: Panificio Laboratorio Artigianale di Architettura
Location: Brescia, Italy
Year: 2023
Photography: Enrico Dal Zotto courtesy of Eclisse
