DIMORA PERLASCA
a new life for an attic space long left unused
cernobbio (co) _
2023 - 2025
multi-family complex _ no. 04 apartments
370 sqm plot | 430 sqm living space
the building is a standalone structure located in the central streets of the town of Cernobbio; at the time of purchase and subsequent survey conducted by carcanoStucchi studio, it was found in a state of abandonment and had long been lacking maintenance.
the property was already divided into three residential units — one per floor — with the attic level designated as ancillary space. the structure is entirely built in stone masonry, with wooden slabs and a timber roof covered with traditional marseille tiles, in line with local building traditions.
the architectural intervention focuses on the redevelopment of the entire complex, both in terms of structural health and aesthetic quality, as well as enhancing the overall property from a functional perspective.
the project includes the complete renovation of the second floor and the attic level, with volume recovery for residential use, alongside the refurbishment and internal reorganization of the apartments on the two lower levels. for the upper floors, the design introduces two duplex apartments, making full use of the vertical space available. in this way, the shared stairwell minimizes its footprint, allowing the living spaces to evolve into a more dynamic and unconventional layout: double-height living areas, large and bright skylights for attic spaces, paired L-shaped steel profiles and osb wood panels for the mezzanines, and two lightweight folded steel staircases connecting the levels within each unit.
the design concept aims to provide flexible and multifunctional spaces for temporary living; environments that can adapt and transform over time, offering housing solutions capable of meeting a variety of needs.
the intervention across the entire building prioritizes the upgrading and insulation of the existing roof, improving thermal and energy performance also through the integration of new photovoltaic panels supporting the condominium’s consumption and advanced systems powered by heat pumps.
the central core of the building, the shared stairwell, is entirely stripped of the superficial layers added over time and restored to its original material essence, revealing solid brick walls and local stone used respectively for vertical surfaces and stair treads. this space is enhanced for its material authenticity and traditional character. a custom-designed handrail is introduced, following the path of the staircase and guiding residents toward the entrances of the various apartments.
from an aesthetic perspective, the intervention seeks to preserve — or rather emphasize — the existing typological features of the building, with its simple and traditional lines. the addition of window frames, string courses, local stone thresholds, and the use of soft grey tones for the façade finishes give the property an elegant and refined character, recalling the typical residences of the cernobbio area. the courtyard is used for car parking and leisure activities.
Dimora Perlasca now offers a diverse residential proposal and a renewed identity.
construction site
existing condition
Technical Drawings
Technical Specifications
assignment:
architectural design _ preliminary, final, executive design and construction supervision
client:
private
contractors:
Impresa Mondelli Battista srl
Impresa Dervishi
3WIRE
Termoidraulica SIMA snc
MEC carpenteria metallica
collaborators:
Studio Ing. Dotti
photography / render:
Beatrice Giani
Lorenzo Giani
