The design of this residential building is characterized by the presence of three patios, each one having different sizes and functions.

The first one we encounter coming from outside separates the master part from the services one. Inside the house the spaces are arranged around a central patio, which is covered by a large skylight. This space contributes to the internal climate well-being, allowing for the natural ventilation of the internal spaces during the summer months and providing solar gains in winter periods. A third patio is dedicated exclusively to the bathroom area.

The articulation of the spaces and the arrangement of the openings, which may seem apparently simple, are the result of a careful research. The goal was to define a multitude of visual relationships, between the interior spaces and the surroundings, framing different portions of the landscape from each room.

The main idea that guided the design is to discover the interior spaces in a progressive way, by rotating around the central patio. The clear reference is to the typological scheme of the Roman domus.

The fronts of the house are characterized by the alternating presence of solid masonry parts, in the north facing entrance, and the large corner window, in the south area.

The roof slab, projected outside, towards the garden, clearly defines the external perimeter of the building. Thanks to the articulation of the wall parts, it was possible to build a series of different covered spaces, functioning as outdoor extensions of the house.

The vertical elements of the structure are walls made in reinforced concrete, cast in place. The roof structure is made of a bidirectional reinforced concrete slab.

The finishing materials are plaster and a reconstructed stone cladding, for the internal and external walls, while floors were finished using concrete.

The heating and cooling of the interior spaces are provided by a radiant underfloor system combined with controlled mechanical ventilation. The photovoltaic panels on the roof power the heat pumps for the air conditioning of the building.

Casa a Patio (“Patio House”), designed by architect Marco Contini, is located in Monticelli Terme, Parma, on a large area of 690 square metres with lush greenery. This one-storey residence stands out for the presence of three patios of different sizes and functions, which define the spaces with sophisticated elegance. Every corner of the residence offers an astonished view of the lush garden thanks to large glass windows, framing the outdoors. Alternating with the large windows, stand out walls clad with Geopietra®, the manufactured stone: an expression of handcrafted excellence that dominates the scene with extreme refinement. The architect’s choice fell on the Collinare model, laid with joints, which enriches the aesthetics of architecture and places it in its rural context. The Geopietra® stone, with its varied shapes, faithfully recreates the look of local stone, blending seamlessly with its surroundings and exuding a sense of authenticity to the whole. Inside the villa, the stone reveals itself on walls that create an oasis of tranquility: a suggestive inner courtyard where the stone yet a play of light and shadow transform this place into an enchanting refuge. 

Overall, the stone with its texture and shades brings warmth to spaces, contrasting harmoniously with the clean and modern lines of the overall design. Finally, its use in the project underlines a strong commitment to sustainability, thanks to its composition of natural raw materials, such as natural oxides, lightweight aggregates, lime and cement, without resins or marble dust. 

Casa a Patio embodies the modern architecture, meeting contemporary needs with elegance and functionality.