Four terraced houses with the construction of two buildings: this is the Patio Houses project in Pura, a village of 1,400 inhabitants in the canton of Ticino, not far from Lugano.

The buildings are built on three levels, following the contours of the land and the lines of the natural slopes to achieve a homogeneous result.

We reported on this project some time ago, when there were only sketches of the patio houses. Now the excavations have begun and everything is taking shape.

Natural materials as protagonists in the Patio Houses project

The project blends into the hillside and engages in a dialogue with the natural context through white volumes whose geometries shape the entrance areas, loggias and terraces, enhancing the use of space through an integrated and connected design between the interior and exterior. The strong focus on bioclimate and sustainability is reflected in the choice of materials and construction systems.

Key elements of the design include the load-bearing timber structure with XLAM technology and the use of natural materials that ensure high energy performance. (Abito Holz e Bomè).

The maximisation and control of sunlight and heat is particularly important in the design of a bioclimatic house. The use of solar shading devices (Pellini and Finglas) integrated into the windows of the houses reduces solar gain in the warmer months and increases it in the winter months. This optimises thermal and visual comfort throughout the year, reducing the costs of cooling, heating and artificial lighting.

Can these choices be identified with the principles of sustainability? Yes, the use of natural materials requires a circular material life cycle and low energy consumption in their production, and careful design makes it possible to create buildings that require less energy.

Simplicity, light, warmth and nature are some of the key elements of the project, which can be clearly deduced from the use of materials that characterise the envelope: the charm of wood in the external walkways (Déco), the transparency of glass in the balustrades (Vetreria Tacca), the design of the greenery and external shaded areas (Verde Profilo and Corradi), all linked and enhanced by a careful study of the use of light.

Living comfort is the goal

Living comfort is certainly one of the main objectives of the Patio Houses project. The design of the interiors is aimed at creating functional and comfortable environments, living spaces for total well-being. Each construction choice is also aimed at creating quality interiors, through technologies that control thermal comfort, air health and the inclusion of an integrated basic home automation system (Lutron) for the regulation of scenarios and the use of spaces.

Indoor and outdoor spaces in complete harmony

Outdoor spaces are essential when talking about living comfort. In this project, the first floor patio and roof terrace have been designed as an extension of the indoor space. The aim is to be able to make use of the outdoors as soon as possible and when desired, while at the same time being aesthetically pleasing and practical.

Take a look at the project images and check out the other BeSpace projects published on the website!