Learning to regenerate our building heritage: Villa Noal

Meticulousness in architectural design: the solar contribution

Villa Noal is designed by Andrea Benedetti, founder of Panificio Architecture Workshop, known for architectural projects focused mainly on renovation, both on a small and large scale. The design of Villa Noal places emphasis on orientation and the free solar gains. The depth of the overhangs creates spacious porches where one can "inhabit" the outdoor space, while also serving as protectors of the interior spaces from the sun.

The energy self-sufficiency of Villa Noal

The attention in the design of Villa Noal also focused on the systems, aiming to make the villa completely self-sufficient in terms of energy consumption.

The efficiency of the systems

The energy self-sufficiency of the villa is made possible by highly efficient systems: a heat pump generates heat during winter and cool air during summer, with an underfloor distribution system, combined with a MEV (mechanical controlled ventilation) with dehumidifier, all connected to a 20 kW photovoltaic system and a battery storage system of about 45 kW. There is also a consideration for water savings, with a rainwater collection tank and low-consumption faucets.

Contemporary Language in Harmony with the Context

Despite the contemporary architectural composition of Villa Noal and its flat roof, the project harmoniously blends into the surroundings, appearing well-proportioned on the plot where it stands. The villa, with a net area of 160 sqm and a basement of 240 sqm, is perceived as a much smaller dwelling, thanks to a carefully crafted design that integrates the architecture into the surrounding environment. This balance between innovation and respect for the existing context gives Villa Noal a unique character, demonstrating that it is possible to combine modernity and tradition in perfect harmony.

The stone cladding: Credaro stone

Even the choice of cladding for the villa is a sustainable one: Credaro stone is widely used in the area. The choice of split stone cladding is linked to the desire for a long linear horizontal pattern that emphasizes the horizontal flow of the architecture. The stone blocks serve outdoor and pool area functions: one contains the outdoor kitchen and connects with the porch of the living area, another houses the pool facilities and outdoor shower, and another serves as the element for expelling the internal air renewal system. 

The architectural axes of the interior spaces

Within it, the design of the villa follows three specific architectural axes: the first one goes from the Oikos glass door at the entrance to the garden, the second from the living area to the bedroom mirror, and the third axis, running from north to south, defines the connection of various functions, leading to the light staircase that connects the ground floor of the villa to the basement area.

The light and furnishings of the basement

The basement is a space that offers the same usability as the main floor, thanks to the double-height window that allows for ample natural light to enter. This makes the space bright and welcoming, transforming it into a livable and pleasant area like the upper floor. The furnishings of the basement have been custom-designed with the same care and attention to detail as the other rooms in the villa, including both the kitchen and bathroom. This personalized approach ensures that each element seamlessly integrates into the space, helping to create a harmonious and functional environment.