Villa Prêt-à-Hàbiter is located in Collina D’Oro, Montagnola, Lugano, Switzerland. The aim of the project is to create a human scale architecture even though, following the promoter’s wishes, the needs and preferences of the final users are as yet unknown.
The architectural element is designed as a symbol of universal beauty. The characteristics of the Ticino landscape are evoked in the project as symbols of beauty. Green areas, water and architecture in the project, as well as in the Ticino landscape, merge into a “unicum”.
A body of water compensates for the absence of a lake view, reflecting images, lights and shadows into the Villa. The transparency of the façade allows an absolute permeability to the outside: at sunset an inner warm atmosphere is created through the double-height living room windows. Natural materials characterize façades and interiors in continuity with the environment and the landscape. The use of timber as a form for concrete enriches the building with natural textures. Beauty is important to the wholeness of the person, and the house fulfills this fundamental need. Prèt-à-porter, Prèt-à-manger e Prèt-à-habiter are the logical conclusions of a process that leads to the desire for consuming and owning objects, as symbols of beauty and status.
