Efficient Windows and Doors for a Historic Home

By Editorial Staff - 5 November 2024
Oknoplast has participated in the project

Revealing a series of picturesque views of Lake Como, Oknoplast’s Prolux Evolution windows and doors serve as the crowning element in the recent renovation of a prestigious 300-sq. m historic villa nestled in the hills of Cernobbio. Spread over three levels and dating back to the early 20^th century, the villa’s classic structure has been carefully adapted to meet the needs of modern living, while preserving the enchanting essence of traditional homes from the Como area. Irene Lucca’s project involved a complete overhaul of the installations and utilities, a rethinking of the spatial design, a careful curation of materials and furnishings, and the incorporation of advanced technical solutions, including Prolux Evolution windows and doors.

Courtesy Oknoplast

This revamp, which involved both structural components and finishes, aimed to maximize the building’s energy efficiency, particularly through the addition of a 15 cm thermal insulation layer. Prolux Evolution PVC window and door frames, coupled with new gray shutters that complete the façade, offer superior thermal and acoustic insulation – achieving a Uw value of up to 0.8 W/m²K with triple glazing and noise reduction of up to 45 dB – while maintaining a square symmetrical and minimalist esthetic that manages to both respect the traditions of this historic villa and update it.

Courtesy Oknoplast

On the ground floor, the solution takes the form of French windows with an ashlar panel that gives the frames a classic touch. On the upper floors, single-sash windows provide a romantic frame for the lake views. In addition, the reduced central joint maximizes the glazed surface of the French window, increasing the amount of natural light. The color palette chosen for the window frames, interior walls, and select furnishings – many of which are custom-made – further enhances the diffusion of light and highlights key design elements that the interior concept seeks to emphasize, such as the expansive pink modular sofa in the living area. The top floor, previously accessible only by a narrow spiral staircase, has been transformed by the addition of a wide wooden staircase that provides seamless access to a relaxation area. Here, three large windows with slender profiles optimize natural light penetration while framing stunning views, producing a perfect balance of comfort, esthetics and functionality.

The project was completed with the integration of a home automation system and the installation of solar thermal panels and collectors. Together, these improvements raised the building’s energy rating from G to A under the national rating system, marking a significant leap in efficiency and sustainability.