Nature as architecture

There are countless beautiful homes built in natural settings. Far fewer, however, are residential projects conceived with the specific aim of becoming an extension of the surrounding landscape, establishing a seamless continuity with nature. Casa Lago Dolomiti belongs to this select group, with an even more distinctive feature: originally designed as a private residence, it is now evolving into a place for connection and exchange, open to both the local community and professionals. The residence is located in Primiero San Martino di Castrozza, in the province of Trento, in a valley at the foot of the Pale di San Martino mountain range, in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dolomites. This extraordinary setting provided the primary source of inspiration for architect Giorgio Zaetta, who designed the house to ensure that the mountains would remain a constant presence within the interiors, visible from every room. No small feat, considering that the residence extends across more than 700 square metres on three floors.

The design strategy began with the use of natural, sustainable materials throughout both the architecture and interiors, with wood and stone taking centre stage, complemented by a colour palette inspired by the landscape and its seasonal transformations. The most significant intervention, however, was the introduction of expansive glazed surfaces capable of dissolving the boundaries between the building and its surroundings. Large windows, positioned throughout all three floors, minimise the presence of solid walls, bringing a sense of openness, light and continuity while ensuring that the landscape remains constantly in view. The clearest expression of this concept can be found in the living room, where an entire glazed wall becomes a living picture framing the Pale di San Martino mountains. Even the balcony, itself made of glass, contributes to this interplay of transparency.

This architectural approach finds a natural counterpart in the interiors, designed entirely by Lago, a brand that has made lightness and transparency defining features of its design philosophy. From the kitchen to the living room, from the dining area to the bedrooms and bathrooms, every space is connected by the contemporary, minimalist language of Lago, demonstrating the brand’s versatility in furnishing entire residential projects. The concept draws directly on the Casa Lago Milano format, where a welcoming, home-like atmosphere defines a multifunctional space.

The result of an extensive redevelopment of an existing building, Casa Lago Dolomiti has been completely reimagined as a contemporary chalet, accompanied by a small traditional Alpine farmhouse within the property. The transformation has also produced an exemplary building in terms of sustainability, earning ARCA Silver certification (no. ARCA_SA_0131), issued by Odatech, as well as CasaClima certification, further recognition of its construction quality and commitment to energy efficiency. Its innovative identity extends beyond its architecture to its future ambitions. Casa Lago Dolomiti was conceived as a fully fledged private residence – the home of Daniele Lago and his wife Eleonora – yet its location, generous spaces and the vibrant community surrounding it have inspired a broader vision: that of a place to be shared. For Daniele Lago, the youngest of ten siblings, home has always been, first and foremost, a place where relationships are nurtured. Casa Lago Dolomiti takes this philosophy further, evolving into an open, welcoming environment and a meeting place for the community and professionals alike.