Architect Elena Pancaldi of the “Officina di Architettura” designed this private residence in Formigine, in the province of Modena, Italy as a minimalistic composition of elementary shapes, inspired by the timelessness of purity. The bespoke windows form an integral part of the visual narrative, where aesthetics merge with functionality. The lift&slide windows of the dining and living room, with their fixed lateral, glassedge aligned partitions and the flush bottom threshold create a seamless continuity between the internal space and the garden outside. Automated, knee-fold sun-breaking panels made from cedar play with the depth of the incoming light, creating always changing architectural compositions with their movements. The complex system of 2 sets of automated fabric shading, completely concealed and integrated into the windows, playfully caresses the filtering light, now adding, now detracting depth to the various spaces of the villa. The pedestrian skylights on the upper floor, made from weathered true bronze, contribute to conferring ampleness and light to the interiors.

Photographs courtesy of Helenio Barbetta and Vanni Borghi.