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A stone house built in 1719, carefully restored and upgraded with new elements that honor the character of the original Alpine architecture.
Nestled on the edge of the small hamlet of Montaccio, around 1,040 meters or 3,400 feet above sea level in the Bergell region of Switzerland, this old stone house dates back to 1719. Architecture firm Renato Maurizio Architekten carefully renovated the building to preserve its historic Alpine character and charm. The team also modernized the interiors with a thoughtful blend of original elements and contemporary additions. Set on a south-facing slope close to the access road that leads from the village of Stampa to the center of the hamlet, the house offers access to mountains views and Italy in the distance.
Featuring two connected volumes, the house has a pronounced rustic character, which the studio preserved. The team meticulously repaired the century-old facades and restored dilapidated areas. Inside, new concrete elements provide excellent structural support, with their mineral quality beautifully complementing the wood finishes. Following vernacular building traditions, the interiors boast a harmonious blend of old and new features which weave a poetic story through time.
Renato Maurizio Architekten repurposed as much as possible from the old materials. For example, the old timber cladding transformed into warm flooring or wall panels, while the original roof beams now frame the windows and door frames. The rough stone masonry boasts a light lime plaster which complements the textures of concrete. The minimalist decor lets the materiality of the warm palette shine while also putting the focus on the breathtaking mountain views. Photography© Marcello Mariana.
