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Villa Le Rocche redefines coastal architecture in harmony with the Ligurian landscape

Dedalo Architetti Associati

Housing  /  Completed
Dedalo Architetti Associati

The guiding principle of the project is the redefinition of the existing architecture, while respecting the volumetric composition and the main architectural features of the building, with particular attention to the relationship with the surrounding vegetation and the sea.
The new layout of the interior spaces does not interfere with the openings and terraces, which, where expanded, do not alter the balance of the façades.

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Vista di insieme verso il mare

Perched near the summit of a rugged promontory that gazes out over the Ligurian Sea, the building seems almost to grow from the rock itself, becoming one with the iconic coastal landscape. This delicate and evocative integration is at the heart of the design concept. The structure is composed of two main volumes, whose façades alternate between smooth plaster surfaces and textured local stone. The volumes follow the irregular contours of the hillside, resulting in a dynamic and layered spatial composition that constantly shifts with the viewer’s perspective. Special attention is given to the landscape design, which plays a crucial role in reinforcing the project's dialogue with its setting where native vegetation is preserved and enhanced.

Copertura

The project was developed with a strong focus on sustainability, addressing the following key aspects:

  • the use of energy-efficient wall assemblies and insulation systems;
  • the installation of photovoltaic panels integrated into the roof’s stringcourse;
  • the selection of natural materials, preferably of local origin;
  • a detailed landscaping plan aimed at enhancing and reinforcing the existing vegetation;
  • careful planning of the construction process, tailored to the site's complex topography, with the goal of preserving all major existing plant species.

Particolare della facciata

The project concerns a medium-sized property on a steep hillside, where a residential building—dating back to the early 20th century—overlooks a private estate on the Vignetta promontory in Varazze. The intervention involves the renovation of the original structure, preserving its architectural language.Particular care is devoted to the design of outdoor spaces, enhancing both the landscape and pedestrian pathways across the site. The building comprises two main volumes that follow the natural contours of the terrain. Long terraces project toward the sea, framing sweeping views and visually extending the interior. Portions of the building are cantilevered on exposed reinforced concrete beams that emerge from the rock, emphasizing a sense of suspension and integration with the site. At the rear, a network of paths and stairways connects the various units, creating small private or semi-private outdoor areas that enrich the residential experience. The horizon and the vast expanse of the sea act as an architectural element in their own right, entering into a continuous dialogue with the built forms. The volumes are finished in light-colored plaster and split stone; natural materials such as glass and dark steel further complement the character of the original building and its surrounding landscape. A refined lighting design completes the project, using soft cuts and pinpoint spotlights to highlight architectural details and evoke atmospheric, sensory effects.

Vista facciata nel contesto naturale
The company invested in the restoration of one of Varazze’s most evocative buildings, with a clear commitment to respecting both the structure itself and the surrounding landscape. The Villa Le Rocche project stands as an example of architecture that has successfully renewed the building without compromising the distinctive features that make it unique. Inside the apartments, every single space maintains a direct relationship with the outdoors and the undisputed protagonist is the sea.

Credits

 Varazze
 Italia
 San Giuseppe srl
 Residence
 04/2023
 700 m2
  1,500,000.00 €
 Dedalo Architetti Associati
 Dedalo Architetti Associati - arch. Mauro Micheletti - arch. Silvia Parodi - arch. Milena Tealdo - arch. Anna Cavallo - geom. Simone Averame - geom. Davide Santangeli
 Edilter Società Cooperativa
 Structural design: Eng. Stefano Lavagna - Systems: Studio Gaminara, Eng. Luca Gaminara
 Re Serramenti s.r.l. - Massone Francesco & F. s.r.l. - Velaria s.r.l. - Albarredo s.r.l.
 Andrea Bosio

Bio

Dedalo Associati Architecture Studio has been designing and carrying out building projects on both urban and architectural scales for approximately twenty years, in both public and private sectors, with passion and professionalism. Over two decades of professional experience, partners Mauro Micheletti, Silvia Parodi, Anna Cavallo, and Milena Tealdo have developed the ability to address various regulatory and executive challenges throughout the design process, up to those directly related to construction sites. Dedalo boasts solid experience in complex strategic planning processes, participatory procedures, general and detailed urban planning, and in the design of residential, industrial, productive, and commercial buildings, as well as public spaces and urban design. Ongoing design research, a commitment to quality in products and services, and the continuous improvement of its operational methods are among Dedalo's key objectives.

https://dedaloarchitettiassoci...


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