Air, water, stone

On these pages, the house where pieces from the Flexform collection were staged has an unusual tale to tell. It was built by the owner of the home next door, «because he wanted to be sure the view was pleasing», says amused architect Aldo Parisotto, author - with his firm Parisotto + Formenton - of the project. Once the land had been purchased, the owner contacted an architectural firm and work began. 
Then, not completely satisfied, he called a halt to the job. He met with Parisotto and decided to entrust completion of the construction project to his firm. «It was the first time we had ever designed a home without knowing who would be living there», continues Parisotto. The first step was to visit the site to get a sense of its geography and orientation relative to the position of the sun. This led to the design of an elongated rectangular structure, on several levels (living areas at street level and bedrooms on the floor below – which, given the slope, is still above ground – and the gym/laundry room, etc. another level below that) and oriented south- east, to capture the lake views. 
Upon entering, a series of spaces suddenly opens up to embrace the landscape and the infinity pool overlooking the lake: «We believe that architecture is beautiful when you discover it, like a pathway, moment by moment», explains the architect. Indoor and outdoor spaces communicate through large windows and also through the use of stone, which covers the vertical structural elements like a skin. The design is studded with references to the masters of Rationalism: Terragni (the circular skylights in the entry ceiling), Libera (the «long cuts», as Parisotto refers to them), Le Corbusier (the thin pillars and outdoor spiral staircase). A thrilling, minimalist setting. To be experienced.