Villa Leeh

Location:

Como, Italy

Project area:

700 m2

Architects:

Angus Fiori Architecs

Design team:

Angus Fiori

Photo credits:

Filippo Romano

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Experimenting with Light and Energy

Set in a flat area halfway between Milan and Como, this experimental project was conceived to push sustainability and biocompatibility to their highest standards. Great care was dedicated to the study of bioclimatic performance, plant-engineering systems, and the reduction of energy losses through an optimized building envelope.

The building’s volume stretches along the east–west axis to maximize southern exposure. Its south façade is largely transparent, capturing solar gain to naturally warm the interiors. The remaining portions of the façade are clad in back-painted recycled fiberglass panels, combining a contemporary aesthetic with responsible material choices.

On the north façade, a layer of Botticino marble mounted on a steel-wood substructure creates a mostly opaque, highly insulated surface to limit energy dispersion.

The south, east, and west façades feature glass panels interrupted by cantilevered slabs made of wood structure and clad in zinc-titanium panels. This system reflects sunlight off the vertical walls in summer, reducing heat loads, while allowing more sunlight to enter when the sun is lower in winter. Additional buffer spaces on the first floor contribute to the same seasonal efficiency.

On the north façade, a layer of Botticino marble mounted on a steel-wood substructure creates a mostly opaque, highly insulated surface to limit energy dispersion.

Interior view of the ground floor facing the opposite side

Inside the wooden finishes have been widely implemented, as well as a striking cantilevered oak staircase structure, connecting all levels with sculptural simplicity. Vertical glass panels provide safety while maintaining transparency and openness across the spaces.