New Architecture for Historical Old Italian Masserie Farmhouse

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Called Masserie, these structures that were left abandoned after World War II as the country folk flocked into cities for jobs are now making a comeback and this renovation by Italian architecture firm Peter Pichler is prime example of how these old houses can be brought into the 21st century. Daylighting and beautiful aluminum shading devices are key design elements to give this historic building modern appeal.

The Masserie architecture was of Arabic, Greek and Norman influence and exteriors were strong, while interiors had doors that opened up onto a courtyard. Walls were thick serving as fortification as well as thermal mass and providing cool, shaded interiors. Located on the top of a hill and oriented towards the sea to take advantage of the breezes, the home includes a small kitchen, living room, three bedrooms and two baths. To the east, the home is surrounded by classic Mediterranean gardens.

To take advantage of the beautiful arches, 36 custom shade screens were made for the home’s exterior windows and doors. These aluminum screens were water cut with a beautiful graduated pattern to filter in the perfect amount of light and still provide protection on the outside. The pattern, which is a new interpretation of the classic arabic linear pattern, gradually changes from very delicate and open to totally closed at the top. The shade screens let light play in through the building during the day and out like a glowing lantern at night.

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source: dornob, peterpichler