VILLA DOMENICA
a domestic retreat overlooking the lake
cernobbio (co) _ CER
2018-2024
main villa _ large plot, basketball/tennis court, swimming pool and solarium
8720 sqm plot | 590 sqm living space
The real estate complex of villa Domenica enjoys a privileged location: a prestigious hillside area within the municipality of Cernobbio, characterized by high-quality residential settlements immersed in refined greenery, offering remarkable views over the first basin of Lake Como, stretching from the provincial capital to the shores of Faggeto, Nesso and Careno.
the property was, and still is, composed of two residential levels forming a single-family building. the structure follows and adapts to the morphology of the land, characterized by a large flat area uphill and a steep slope downhill, divided by stone retaining walls and terraced levels overlooking the lake. this configuration ensures a strong connection between the building and its context, while creating the sensation of being “overlooking the lake” despite the actual distance from it.
the villa building, as mentioned above, is composed of two residential levels — ground floor and basement — connected by an internal staircase. the ground floor, accessible from the flat green area uphill, is characterized by a patio layout: a striking architectural feature and a key element in establishing a close relationship between interior and exterior spaces. the building, in its existing condition, was not in optimal shape but held significant potential for transformation into a refined and prestigious main villa.
the project developed by carcanoStucchi studio pursues two main objectives: the complete renovation of the existing ground floor and the extension of the basement level with an additional residential volume, with particular attention to the existing morphological features and the preservation of the valuable greenery present on the property.
the intervention aims to employ material characteristics and typologies typical of the area without contradicting the original pre-existing structure. for this reason, the extension volume has been developed entirely at basement level, in natural continuity with the existing volume, integrating with and following the profile of the existing terraces. the flat roof serves as an extension of the existing terrace connected to the living area on the ground floor.
the entire renovation process follows the typologies and aesthetics of traditional lakeside villas: light-toned façades, cement frames decorating openings, wrought iron railings with ornamental designs, stone slab roofing typical of the area, string courses and decorative elements at eaves level, as well as stone cladding and vaulted details.
the rich and refined taste is echoed in the details selected for the finishes and interior decorations. the external areas, on the other hand, are continuously enriched with local and high-quality plant species, creating an elegant and welcoming atmosphere.
carcanoStucchi studio also oversaw the design and construction supervision of the private sports court and the outdoor swimming pool, both located within the extensive grounds of the villa.
a prominent position was selected for the infinity pool, ensuring full sun exposure and breathtaking views over the valley of the first basin of Lake Como.
the sports court accommodates the dimensions required for both tennis and basketball, and is surrounded by dense and lush vegetation that integrates it discreetly within the overall landscape.
the result of the renovation of villa Domenica is a harmonious balance between welcoming outdoor spaces and richly decorated interiors, between the soft façade decorations and the raw local materials, between vibrant vegetation and the deep blue of the sky reflected on the smooth surface of the pool.
carefully balanced outcomes made possible by a strong alignment between designers and clients, taste and trust.
construction site
existing condition
Technical Specifications
assignment:
architectural design preliminary, final, executive design and construction supervision
external areas, swimming pool, sports court preliminary, final, executive design and construction supervision
client:
private
contractors:
Petazzi Costruzioni srl
Almar Elettrotecnica srl
Dotti Idraulica
Culligan
Lario Garden srl
Goldenrod
collaborators:
Studio Ing. Dotti
photography:
Beatrice Giani