Casa PJA by ES-arch: A Rural Transformation into a Modern Seasonal Residence

Blending Tradition with Modern Architecture

Located in Italy, Casa PJA is a remarkable architectural project by ES-arch, reflecting a seamless transition from a rural building to a contemporary seasonal residence. This renovation masterfully preserves the structure’s original essence while introducing modern design elements.

Designed with sustainability and functionality in mind, the 1700 m² residence incorporates traditional materials like lime plaster, allowing for a visual contrast between the new and the old.

Architectural Vision: Merging Past and Present

The transformation of Casa PJA is marked by strategic volumetric interventions, where added elements are purposefully distinguished from the original structure. The lime-plastered exterior ensures that the renovation respects the authentic rural character while enhancing its architectural integrity.

One of the key design elements is the setback window, which creates a deep shadow effect, reminiscent of traditional farmhouses. The structure maintains a minimalist yet expressive facade, allowing for a dialogue between the past and the present.

Structural Modifications and Interior Layout

Lower Floor: A Functional and Intimate Space

The ground floor of Casa PJA is dedicated to private spaces, including:

• A bedroom
• A service bathroom
• A multi-purpose room on the southern end

Upper Floor: Open-Concept Living

A straight staircase leads to the upper floor, which houses an open-plan living area. This space includes:

• A kitchenette
• A living area with large west-facing windows
• A glazed corridor leading to a private study

The floor-to-ceiling glass openings on the west side maximize natural light and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Facade Composition: A Tribute to Rural Architecture

Casa PJA's south-facing facade maintains the classical composition of rural homes, featuring:

• A French door
• Square windows that frame the outdoor scenery

To further integrate the new structure with its surroundings, the connection between the main building and the adjacent parcel is partially recessed into the ground. This transition is enhanced by a glazed western facade, reflecting the natural landscape, and an east-facing plastered wall, supported by tiered pools designed for raspberry plants.

Sustainability and Landscape Integration

A key focus of the renovation is the seamless blend between architecture and nature. The east-facing facade, which overlooks a public street, remains mostly closed off for privacy, while the west-facing elevation opens to panoramic views.

The exterior landscaping follows the natural topography, incorporating:

• Terraced levels that integrate with the existing slope
• A small retaining wall and staircase, defining an outdoor living area

A Contemporary Take on Rural Heritage

Casa PJA exemplifies adaptive reuse architecture, where traditional materials like lime plaster are reinterpreted to highlight the transformation of a rural building into a contemporary home. By maintaining the original footprint while introducing modern spatial elements, ES-arch successfully balances heritage conservation with contemporary living.

All Photographs are works of Marcello Mariana fotografia