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The beautiful rebuilding and transformation of an 18th-century farmhouse located in a picturesque Italian hamlet.
Located in the ancient hamlet of Carella, in the municipality of Eupilio, northern Italy, the Curt farmhouse is a listed building that required a specialized approach. Architects Marco Ortalli, Virginia Ortalli and Chiara Recalcati completed the rebuilding and transformation project that brought the old farmhouse back to life. Set on the slopes of Monte Cornizzolo, the structure stands in a picturesque location, between Lake Segrino and Lake Pusiano. Comprised of a C-shaped volume with two and three stories, the building also featured a large courtyard with stone walls and a chestnut door. Uninhabited since the 1960s, the farmhouse was left in a dilapidated state; the new owners tasked the architects with the renovation of the property.
Working with the existing ruins, the team carefully retained as much as possible from the original design while restoring, strengthening and rebuilding the farmhouse with respect for vernacular architecture. The still-functional water well remains, along with the central loggia. The team rebuilt the destroyed east wing, including the old stables. In the central wing, there’s a new two-room apartment with restrooms. Upstairs, there are two mezzanine units, along with more bathrooms. The west wing now houses a studio apartment. A wooden staircase provides access to the living spaces via the restored loggia.
Marco Ortalli and his team used mostly natural materials to complete this complex project. For example, brick, lime mortar, and solid chestnut wood preserve the character of the old farmhouse. Underfloor heating throughout enhances the level of comfort of the residents. Carbon fiber rods, reinforced plaster and fiberglass mesh strengthen the structure, while modern insulation, photovoltaic panels, and heat pumps provide high energy efficiency. Additionally, this old farmhouse now boasts roller blinds that mitigate the summer heat and a water collection system that gathers rainwater to feed the surrounding greenery. Photography© Marcello Mariana.
