The pyramidal roof of this house near Italy's Lake Como takes cues from traditional Japanese tea houses, and is slanted to allow low winter sun to reach the rustic interior.
The property is situated on a small hillside plot surrounded by woodland on the edge of the village of Dizzasco, from which it overlooks a valley descending towards the lake.
Photograph is by Valeria Bellora
The building's setting is intended to evoke the sort of scenery in which Japanese tea houses are typically found, said architect Lorenzo Guzzini, who is based in the nearby city of Como.
Guzzini drew inspiration from the architecture and ceremonial use of these structures, claiming that "with this house the challenge was to transform the routine into a sort of ritual". Photograph is by Giorgio Marafiot
The residence's rustic detailing and simple square footprint, with a symmetrical internal layout centred around a sunken lounge area, recall the design of the tea houses.
Straightforward materials reference the natural setting and the vernacular architecture of the historic village, while creating a muted and tranquil backdrop that accentuates areas of light and shadow within the interior.
Photograph is by Giorgio Marafiot
Another key consideration when developing the house was ensuring that the structure and layout optimise the available sunlight.
"The first rule to have an environmentally friendly building is to take advantage of what the nature can offer," said the architect.
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