With initially only its entrance door visible, the Hermitage by llabb in Val Trebbia is a rectangular volume approached from the northwest of the property. The walls on three sides of the volume are clad with horizontally oriented plywood boards. The fourth side opens up to the valley with expansive views made possible by four full-height glazed panels.
The walls, floor, and ceiling are made of Okoumè marine plywood panels, a wood that was selected for its resistance to weathering. The facades are attached to spacer battens to create an air space between the facade and the walls, an assembly which improves insulation performance.
Upon entering this house, one is immediately offered a view of the valley below, while also taking in a series of interior features that articulate the space over different levels. This includes a countertop on the entrance level that runs the entire right wall and incorporates a seat, desk and storage area.
The upper level accommodates the largest living area, which extends outward onto the terrace. A wall that encloses a small bathroom also accommodates a fold-out bed that, when open, hovers above the sofa.
In terms of incorporated sustainability measures, the roof accommodates two photovoltaic panels, which are connected to a storage battery as part of the design aim to be off-grid. The strategy also includes compostable toilets and water canisters, though the house can also easily be connected to existing water and sanitary/storm sewers.
Throughout the home, the sun and light conditions create a variety of patterns of light and shade that celebrate different times of the day.
