Saturday, March 10, 2012

The Evolution of a Barn

Soglio, Switzerland
all images courtesy of Armando Ruinelli via designboom


Today I'm enjoying this very cool redevelopment of an old Swiss barn into a stunning minimalist home. The outside view is unassuming, maintaining the original roof and overall form, in perfect harmony with the surrounding mountain village. Movable wooden panels allow the residents to adjust light and air flow into their home. Internally, the material palette speaks for itself in strength and natural beauty.  













The whole 'bare concrete' thing has slowly been growing on me, as I see it being used more frequently in modern homes. My first reaction to a concrete floor is that it must feel cold under the feet, but I've heard that the insulation properties of concrete are good enough to prevent this issue. Concrete walls are next on the list of 'things that Justyna is learning to appreciate', and I think this house has just done the trick. With that awesome bubbly layered effect, I wouldn't even want to hang anything on those walls. Built-in wooden drawers and shelves are the icing on the cake (did you notice the subtle side-wall panel in the bathroom?).
However, I do wonder how bare concrete walls age over time, in particular if there are any downsides like dirt accumulation. Does anyone out there have first-hand experience or thoughts on the matter? Would you consider this material palette as the basis for your home?


 

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