The Dock redeveloped on Lake Orta. A space for meditation

Architectural and urban planning studio Arch. Rino Cimmino is presented with a building on Lake Orta, built in 1954, with the characteristics of a typical lake dock, with a flat roof and a reinforced concrete cornice, elements that are not in keeping with the type of construction for the lake

In 2005, the dock was purchased by two young entrepreneurs in the construction industry, who loved the lake and the surrounding environment. The dock is located at a lower altitude than the road and is protected from traffic. A stone staircase leads to the dock, where you can admire a fantastic view from the small garden and the splendid wooden pier

The light from the lake penetrates deeply into the building to create plays of light that make the atmosphere intimately linked to the environment. The design idea comes from these elements. The main works were the demolition of all the reinforced concrete cornices, the removal of the various facade claddings and the internal modification of the existing spaces

A tympanum with stone cladding typical of the lake area has been built at the lake front. The roof is a load-bearing structure with iron rods and the roof covering is made of corrugated copper sheets. Soft, neutral, natural colours have been used that do not impact on the surrounding environment. Internally, the roof, which is completely visible is made of whitewashed wood and light grey iron beams

The living area consists of an open space, where the kitchenette and dining area are separated from the living room by a few steps. Above the latter there is an iron and wood mezzanine which can be accessed through a light and simple staircase. The idea of the loft was born to create a space for relaxation related to reading, its balustrade was deliberately made of glass panels so as not to hide the view of the space below and the view of the lake. The sleeping area consists of a master bedroom with adjoining dressing room, a guest room and a bathroom. Even in the latter bathroom it was decided that soft colours should be used in contrast with darker tones. The blue and glossy ceramic that covers the walls contrasts with the rough black of the shower and the dark wood of the floor

The small outdoor garden with a century-old oak and a palm tree has some areas that have been covered with lawns and others that have been paved with wooden strips and other resin areas. The garden, the pier, the new layout of the building create an idyllic environment, a safe place to take shelter and relax while admiring the view and the magnificent sunsets over the lake

Rino Cimmino gives a precise identity to the project, integrating it into the environment in a delicate and elegant way, by creating a symbolic space for leisure time and most of all for meditation