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Archello Awards 2026 · Enter your projects before 30 September 2026
Casa 144º
Del Rio Bani

House 144º

When building in a complex and fragile environment such as a forested hillside, certain questions inevitably arise: how can one build on a sloping site without altering the landscape? Most neighbouring houses seek to maximise their footprint, significantly transforming the terrain. We reject the hypocrisy of a continuous aesthetic of white walls that conceals concrete structures, extensive earthworks, and climate-controlled interiors.

photo_credit Del Rio Bani
Del Rio Bani
photo_credit Del Rio Bani
Del Rio Bani

The house is organised on a single level, positioned midway along the slope and supported by a light steel structure. In plan, it traces a broken line forming a 144° angle, orienting the cantilevered end towards the mountain views.

The project adopts a dry construction system based on a clear and honest tectonic logic, respectful of the environment. Conceived as a nearly zero-energy house, it combines industrial materials such as galvanised steel with highly efficient and renewable ones such as timber.

photo_credit Del Rio Bani
Del Rio Bani

The main structure consists of prefabricated timber wall panels assembled on site, combined with a lightweight floor structure of solid timber beams. One end of the house is anchored into the ground, while the other extends outward, supported by four galvanised steel columns, stiffened with cross-bracing to reduce their section. A galvanised steel corrugated envelope protects the timber. Openings are cut into the façade as large frameless openings, visually dematerialising the house from the outside.

photo_credit Del Rio Bani
Del Rio Bani
photo_credit Del Rio Bani
Del Rio Bani
photo_credit Del Rio Bani
Del Rio Bani
photo_credit Del Rio Bani
Del Rio Bani
photo_credit Del Rio Bani
Del Rio Bani
photo_credit Del Rio Bani
Del Rio Bani

In contrast to the exterior appearance, the interior is warm: the timber structure is left exposed and defines simple, clear spaces. The living area projects outward in a cantilever towards the landscape, while at the opposite end lies the workshop, located in the basement and lit from above.

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Project credits

Architects

Project data

Project Year
2025
Primary Building Material
Steel
Wood
Building Area
160 m2
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