Casa Bianchi

Mario Botta Architetti, 1971 - 1973

Built on the steep hillside above the village of Riva San Vitale on Lake Lugano, the house occupies the lower part of the site and rises over several levels like a tower. A red metal footbridge connects the road above to the house. The square plan, with an equally square staircase at its centre, changes on each level through the progressive subtraction of the living volume, creating internal terraces and voids overlooked by the various rooms. The vertical development is also reflected in the functional organisation: the upper section, corresponding to the entrance level, contains the entrance hall, the study and the staircase leading to the lower floors. The main bedroom is located on the second floor, while the children’s bedroom is on the first floor. These spaces are partially open and connected to the ground floor, which accommodates the living area.