Swisshouse XL by Davide Macullo Architects: A Contemporary Tribute to Coldrerio’s Architectural Heritage

Nestled on the edge of Coldrerio’s historical core, Swisshouse XL by Davide Macullo Architects embodies a seamless blend of tradition and contemporary design. Completed in 2023, this 111 m² single-family residence reflects a strong and distinctive character, reminiscent of the region’s rural architectural legacy. The project pays homage to small agricultural structures that once dotted the landscape, while responding thoughtfully to the evolving urban context.

Contextual Integration and Urban Dialogue

Swisshouse XL occupies a unique transitional site, bridging two contrasting urban conditions: the historic village core and the modern urban expansion. This strategic position inspired the house’s octagonal plan, a design choice that subtly departs from the orthogonal urban grid while conceptually connecting to 19th-century regional architecture, such as the triangular house by Croci in Mendrisio. The octagonal form acts as both an urban pivot and a symbolic “house beyond the walls,” marking its presence in the rural landscape.

The building’s volumetric composition further reflects the dialogue between past and present. A west-facing cut at the top lightens the northern elevation, echoing the verticality of surrounding historical structures. Meanwhile, a diagonally pitched roof establishes visual continuity with older buildings, creating a harmonious relationship between heritage and contemporary design.

Architectural Identity and Material Expression

Swisshouse XL’s exterior is defined by austerity and subtle elegance. The external staircase, connecting the garden to the first-floor living area, draws inspiration from traditional typologies while serving as a contemporary architectural gesture. Similarly, the northern single-story garage aligns with the village core, reinforcing integration with the historic urban fabric.

Inside, the residence balances solid and void, containment and projection, through geometric cuts that shape light and space. These interventions evoke the tactile memory of the land—like a large stone carefully carved to host life and orient the building optimally within its environment. This sculptural approach transforms the house into more than a structure; it becomes a place imbued with narrative, context, and human experience.

A Home Rooted in Place

Designed for a young local family, Swisshouse XL resonates both physically and emotionally with Coldrerio. Every design decision—from the octagonal layout to material choices—celebrates the village’s heritage while embracing contemporary living. It is a residence that honors the past, engages the present, and looks forward to a sustainable architectural future.

All photographs are works of Leonit Ibrahimi