A retreat in a volcanic setting

Rather than being built on a new site, Casa A12 emerged from the partial reconstruction of an existing residence, while retaining the original layout as the basis for the redesign. Today, the detached house is arranged across three levels, with one story above ground and two partially embedded within the terrain, opening up the interior while building on the existing structure. A C-shaped courtyard forms the centre of the house, opening onto the pool area at the rear and serving as both a functional and visual focal point. The approach to the house is shaped by a large double-height glazed opening, introducing the sense of openness that characterises the design and establishing an immediate relationship between the architecture and its surroundings.

Casa A12 is defined by large areas of glazing, slim profiles and the careful integration of openings into the building envelope. For the large-format sliding elements, the Schüco ASS 50 lift-and-slide system was selected. Combining fixed and sliding vents, it accommodates element widths of more than five metres while offering structural stability and ease of operation. The system allows for a high degree of transparency without compromising thermal insulation, security or weather resistance. The glazed façade was realised using the Schüco AOC 60 ST façade system on a steel substructure, reinforcing the light and open appearance of the architecture. All elements were finished in matte black RAL 9005, complementing the villa's restrained material and colour palette.