Aristo House is a minimal residence located in Molise, Italy, designed by Tom Thys Architecten. The project is a quiet and pure setting, both in terms of architecture and environment. The Aristo House, which was inspired by classical design language, has been pared down to its bare bones, and the outcome is effective—from the original brickwork and the rooms’ clear, linear architecture to the soft, natural colors and the straightforward yet high-quality furnishings. The works of Dom Hans van der Laan and Andrea Palladio both serve as sources of inspiration. One living room and two bedrooms make up the three “rooms” that make up the house, which are perfectly symmetrical.

A stairway, workstation, bathroom, and two mezzanines are all integrated into one wavy space that penetrates the house using the “dynamic superposition” technique. A rich spatial experience is combined with simplicity and clarity. Two symmetrically organized bedrooms are located on the first level and a sizable living area is located on the ground floor. Each with a spacious double bed and a panoramic view of the valley. Added features include a bathroom with a round mirror and a little writing nook built into the corridor. In addition, a special mezzanine level beneath the roof provides guests with even more room to unwind, sleep, and simply be. As befits a genuine hideaway, this level is only accessible by way of a ladder. Finally, organization is always a factor in any decrease.

Even the kitchen and living area, which includes the fireplace and sofa, are devoid of all useful items; these are kept in two tiny adjoining rooms. This allows for unrestricted contemplation throughout the day. It doesn’t matter where you are—on one of the various floors of the home, on the terrace with a wonderfully meditative view, or by the pool, which extends far and lazily into the surrounding area. A standout feature of the house is the outdoor shower that connects the pool to the structure. Wooden shutters offer a soft play of light and wonderfully shaded moments on hot summer days.

Photography by Lorenzo Zandri