CA' NORINA
The village of Montalbano is located on the southern side of Monte della Riva, in the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines, and has preserved its natural essence over time.
Ca' Norina overlooks the eastern side of the village and consists of an 18th century primary structure along with a post-war annex. The project was born from the client’s desire to create a two-story apartment, not just a holiday home but a true residence where the whole family could gather.
Following a subtractive approach, part of the ground floor was excavated to adapt to the slope of the rocky terrain, restoring a connection with the garden. This created two separate entrances at different levels, allowing access to the ground-floor sleeping area, while the living space was moved to the upper floor to make the most of the view of the valley and its ravines, as well as the increased light and height provided by the pitched roof.
Structurally, the historic building was renovated with a new roof in wood and steel, minimizing its thickness. Furthermore, a structure of metal beams and a central pillar on the first floor allows the living area to open up completely, highlighting the existing windows in the historic stone facade wich acts as paintnings framing the village surrounding the living room.
Dark Okoume wood was used for interior partitions, upper floor flooring, and the new staircase, creating a strong material and color contrast with the rest of the house, underscoring the relationship between the historic structure and the new additions.
The kitchen, custom-designed in steel with a countertop made from local stone, contrasts with some historic furniture pieces that have been restored and transformed, creating a balanced system along with new seating and an iron framed sofa, which echoes various custom-designed accessories in the home, such as the wall-mounted lamp holders.
