House DB: Transforming a Rustic Barn into a Modern Residence

Nestled in the charming town of Rosà, Italy, the House DB project by Didonè Comacchio Architects is a stunning transformation of a former hayloft above a barn into a private residence. Preserving the characteristic elements of the rural storage space, the design celebrates the passage of time through a harmonious blend of contemporary and raw, existing surfaces.

Warm wooden beams, exposed brick walls, and sleek white cabinetry create a modern yet cozy kitchen.
Rustic exposed wooden beams and brick walls, with a minimalist desk and potted plant.
Modern kitchen with wooden beamed ceiling, large windows, and minimalist furniture.
Arched window frames with wood detailing, concrete stairs and metal railings.
Rustic wooden ceiling beams, minimalist decor, and a furry companion in the bedroom.
Rustic wooden beams, whitewashed walls, and a window framing exposed brick create a cozy, warm atmosphere.
Rustic wooden ceiling beams, clean minimalist vanity, and modern shower enclosure.

About House DB

In the picturesque town of Rosà, Italy, Didonè Comacchio Architects have masterfully reimagined a once-humble barn into a stunning private residence. Carefully preserving the structure’s rural charm, the design team has seamlessly blended the old and the new, creating a harmonious living space that celebrates the passage of time.

Embracing the Past, Embracing the Future

The project, completed in 2024, begins with a grand steel staircase that leads to a sprawling southern-facing porch. This welcoming entry point sets the tone for the home’s thoughtful integration of traditional and contemporary elements. The arrival balcony opens to a vast, glass facade, shielded by a vertical wooden slat system – a nod to the larch wood used in the roof structure.

Rhythm and Contrast

Inside, the tripartite floor plan is defined by massive stone and brick walls, which have been meticulously restored using original materials. The exposed ceiling beams add to the rustic charm, while the clean, modern lines of the design create a striking contrast. This interplay of old and new is further enhanced by the carefully curated artificial lighting, which balances hidden sources with simple, minimalist fixtures.

A Harmonious Two-Story Sanctuary

The two-story layout seamlessly connects the private and public spaces. On the ground floor, the entry, living area, study, and service rooms are arranged in a flowing, efficient manner. Ascend to the second level, and you’ll find the master bedroom, a second bedroom, a bathroom, and a spacious hallway – all featuring the exposed wooden roof structure.

A Timeless Transformation

Throughout the House DB project, Didonè Comacchio Architects have successfully transformed a historic barn into a contemporary, yet timeless, private residence. By preserving the structure’s rustic charm while infusing it with modern design elements, they have created a truly unique and captivating living space that celebrates the rich history of the site.

Photography courtesy of Didonè Comacchio Architects
Visit Didonè Comacchio Architects

- by Matt Watts

Tags

Gallery

Get the latest updates from HomeAdore

Click on Allow to get notifications