Situated in the Rural Core of Mottaccio in Madesimo, this project reflects the region’s evolving relationship with its historic farmsteads. The surrounding landscape, shaped by undulating grasslands and pastures, has seen a gradual shift from agricultural use to seasonal residences. While many structures in the area have been replaced, this intervention seeks to preserve the existing fabric while making the transformation process visibly distinct. The result is an architectural dialogue between past and present, where new additions complement rather than obscure the building’s history.

The design highlights the contrast between old and new by using lime plaster to differentiate the reconstructed volumes. The single-story addition retains the original structure’s solid, enclosed character, marked by a recessed opening that creates depth and shadow. The southern façade is extended, maintaining the original geometries while emphasizing the evolution of the form. A second-floor living area, accessible via a straight staircase, features a large west-facing window, while the south façade echoes traditional rural compositions with a French door and square openings. A recessed, partially buried connection subtly unites the main house with the adjacent reconstructed parcel, using a mix of glass and plastered walls.

Material authenticity and landscape integration define the project. Lime plaster, a traditional choice, reinforces the narrative of transformation, while exterior elements like a stepped garden and stone terraces enhance the transition between building and terrain. The east elevation remains understated, aligning with rural vernacular, while the west side opens fully to the landscape. By balancing conservation with adaptation, this intervention ensures the farmhouse remains a relevant part of Madesimo’s architectural and cultural identity.

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