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Villa del Sorriso: a healing architecture in the heart of the Alps

Pinearq

Health  /  Completed
Pinearq

The idea for the project was inspired by Bormio’s unique location in the Italian Alps, within Stelvio National Park. The design was carefully developed to blend harmoniously with the surrounding mountainous landscape while prioritizing a residential atmosphere. The goal was to avoid a clinical, hospital-like environment, focusing instead on creating domestic-scale spaces that would make residents and staff feel at home. The facility spans 9,100 square meters over five floors, including one below ground. It features a central courtyard that brings in natural light, housing 80 resident rooms, senior apartments, and all necessary care services, while respecting high-mountain construction styles.

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Bormio: urban and natural environment

The project is deeply connected to its surroundings in the heart of the Lombard Alps, within Stelvio National Park. The architecture reflects the natural beauty of the area, harmonizing with the local landscape in both height and form. The design takes cues from traditional alpine dwellings, ensuring it blends smoothly with its environment: large windows on the upper floors provide stunning panoramic views, while south-facing galleries protect common areas from direct sunlight. East-facing balconies soften the building's scale, and a westward pergola extends the terrace, integrating the structure with the vast sky.

Detail of the main façade in aluminum and wood

The project focuses on sustainability and eco-compatibility through a compact building design that integrates a bioclimatic interior courtyard, enhancing climate regulation and natural lighting, creating a porous space within a compact structure that optimizes energy efficiency. Local materials have been chosen to suit the region's climatic conditions, ensuring durability and environmental harmony. Additionally, a carefully selected palette of healthy materials promotes a comfortable and wholesome environment for both residents and staff. While specific awards or certifications are not mentioned, the project prioritizes ecological and sustainable principles throughout its design.

Rear façade

Villa del Sorriso in Bormio is a 9,100 m² care home designed to offer a peaceful, welcoming environment that supports residents’ well-being. The project expands and remodels the original 1992 structure, integrating it into the Alpine landscape and urban fabric. Divided into two volumes—an upper zinc-clad section and a lower wooden base—it connects tradition with modernity across five floors, featuring 80 rooms, senior apartments, and shared services. A central courtyard brings in natural light and reinforces connection to nature. The design emphasizes a homelike atmosphere, balancing warmth and functionality, with adaptable spaces that support varying levels of privacy and autonomy. Local, healthy materials enhance comfort and sustainability. More than a care facility, Villa del Sorriso is a place where residents can live with dignity, supported by thoughtful design and strong community ties.

Detail of the main façade in aluminum and wood
Villa del Sorriso demonstrates how thoughtful design can support elderly care by balancing functionality and emotional comfort. Its integration with the landscape, use of local materials, and adaptable spaces reinforce our commitment to autonomy, well-being, and a strong connection to nature.

Credits

 Bormio
 Italia
 Fondazione Casa di Riposo Villa del Sorriso
 Residential Care Home
 10/2024
 9100 m2
  12,751,450.00 €
 Albert de Pineda Álvarez, Roberto Melai architteto
 Raffaella Scorziello, Nicola Paltrinieri, Elisa Molinu
 AR.CO. Lavori S.C.C
 Favero & Milan ingegneria (structure) and Studio tecnico forte ING, Giuseppe (engineering)
 Sandrini Metalli SpA, Biondini Serramenti srl, FORBO, Marazzi, Rockfon, Disano, Sauter, Siemens, Airmec, KVB
 Andrea Bosio

Bio

Pinearq is an international architecture firm born in Barcelona, specializing in complex buildings such as hospitals, universities, laboratories, and senior residences—buildings that recognize the values of urban space and architectural quality within the city. With over 30 years of joint experience and a multidisciplinary team of more than 40 professionals, the studio integrates architecture and engineering to create high-quality, urban-focused spaces. Pinearq designs humanized, high-tech environments and offers comprehensive services—from strategic planning and architectural design to construction management and project delivery. Its collaborative approach with local partners has enabled the development of projects in over 15 countries across Europe, Latin America, Africa, and Asia. The firm is also actively involved in education and research, contributing to innovation through specialized courses, seminars, and master’s programs.

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