CASA BASSA A small house in the North Downs

The design harmoniously combines various dwelling types, creating a hybrid environment adaptable to diverse functions. The clients sought to expand their contemporary villa without altering its existing spaces. Early investigations considered redesigning redundant rooms and attic spaces but revealed that transforming the standalone garage would provide a more versatile and memorable solution. CASA BASSA now serves as a versatile space for teenage daughters, an occasional office, a gym, and guest accommodations, enhancing the connection between the main house and its landscaped grounds. Drawing inspiration from artificial intelligence - the owners’ field of expertise - the design translates binary patterns into architectural elements. Timber goalpost frames, zinc cladding, and charred timber interplay dynamically, celebrating the fusion of technology and craftsmanship. Elements are meticulously arranged in binary rhythms of seam and field, solid and void, gap and slat, ridge and valley, creating a structured yet fluid aesthetic. Sustainability is integral to CASA BASSA. The extensive use of timber and timber-based materials, alongside the reuse of significant portions of the original structure - including steel girders, foundations, and walls - and the incorporation of high-level insulation contribute to its low carbon footprint and high embodied carbon efficiency. The design prioritises recyclable components, aligning with eco-conscious principles. The entrance is defined by green-patterned tiles that connect the structure to its natural surroundings. The preserved plinth and a mansard-style roof adapt to the site’s topography, resulting in elevations that vary significantly on each side. Inside, expansive windows flood the bright, monochromatic interior with natural light, while standalone kitchen and storage volumes zone the loft-like space. CASA BASSA celebrates adaptability, sustainability, and the synergy between architecture, technology, and nature.