Cascina involved the conversion and refurbishment of a series of historic 18th century farm buildings in the Piemonte region of Northern Italy, transforming the sprawling hillside ensemble into a tactile, sunlit home and creative studio. The brief presented a simple desire; to rediscover the property’s rural soul. The work sought to establish a connection to the beautiful surrounding vineyards and conserve as much of the original building and structure while greatly improving thermal efficiency.

Local materials define a textural and tactile language throughout the home. Traditional roman techniques of cocciopesto flooring reuse the existing terracotta roof tiles, 200-year-old unsawn trusses remain in situ, and locally sourced chestnut timber brings a clean modern warmth to the interior.

A greatly improved thermal envelope is achieved with new triple glazing, cork and lime insulation, a ground source heat pump and photo voltaics. The exterior facade is characterised by lime washed stone walls, appearing both refined and rustic throughout the seasonal changes. A sense of solidity is manifested from this detail, as if the house were intentionally hewn from the surrounding hills.