The House on the Lake

A 1970s cottage, transformed from a holiday house into a permanent home that opens to views of Lake Maggiore.

Perched on a slope on the shore of Lake Maggiore, Italy, this 1970s cottage was previously used by the family of the client as a holiday retreat. After inheriting the house, the new owner commissioned architecture firm duearchitetti to redesign the interiors to allow him to use the old cottage all year round, as a permanent home. The studio worked closely with the client to transform the living spaces according to his requirements and interests, resulting in a modern and minimalist lake house that is as much a serene sanctuary as it is a socializing space for gathering with friends.

The beauty of the site, with the lake in front and a forested side at the back, allowed the architects to fully immerse the living spaces in nature. A staircase leads from the road at the top of the steep slope to the entrance. New glass walls encase the former entryway, which now houses the kitchen. The glazing opens this space to the surrounding greenery. Removing unnecessary divisions inside the house, the team created an open-plan home that is not only airy and modern, but also ensures a natural flow between different areas.

Outside, the original pergola remains untouched. In the summer, wisteria covers the pergola and its outdoor dining space, providing much-needed shade. To maintain a close connection between the living spaces and nature, duearchitetti designed several outdoor areas that become extensions of the interior. Located at the dock level, there’s a terrace for sunbathing. Between the living room and the master bedroom, a balcony offers a private space for relaxing while admiring the stunning lake views. Photography © Simone Bossi.