Wiggly House by ifdesign in Como, Italy, unfolds a dynamic roofscape that reflects its mountainous surroundings while redefining contemporary family living.
The project, completed in 2015, embraces its challenging surroundings with a design that both shields and invites. Surrounded by multi-story buildings, the house positions itself as a sanctuary, employing Canadian gray granite as a protective shell. This material choice conveys a sense of solidity and permanence, while the minimal openings toward the exterior heighten the structure’s introspective nature. Instead of turning outward, Wiggly House directs its gaze inward, utilizing a series of patios that strategically draw natural light into the interior spaces.
The distinctive “wiggling” roof is the most striking feature of Wiggly House, inspired by the undulating lines of the surrounding mountains. This dynamic roof design is not just an aesthetic gesture; it is a thoughtful response to the natural environment, opening upwards in search of zenithal light. The roof’s playful pitches create a series of light stacks that dramatically illuminate key interior spaces such as the living room, kitchen, and meditation room. The roof’s undulation becomes a poetic dialogue with the mountainous backdrop, a visual conversation between the built and natural environments.
Internally, the house reimagines contemporary living by prioritizing flexible and adaptable spaces that reflect changing family dynamics. The design moves away from rigid, traditional layouts, opting instead for a fluid arrangement that accommodates diverse and evolving uses. This approach is reflected in the thoughtful integration of natural light and the use of varying patio sizes, which enhance the spatial experience and create a sense of openness and connection with the outdoors.
Wiggly House by ifdesign is a compelling example of how architecture can both respond to and challenge its context. It serves as a protective retreat while simultaneously celebrating its surroundings, merging functionality with a striking formal expression. The project explores new typologies for family living, emphasizing adaptability, light, and a strong connection to place.
