Erik Zaffuto had a clear vision for his home—he wanted it to stand out, but not stick out like a sore thumb. He shares, “I wanted my house to look different, but not like it was just dropped into the desert.” Being a big fan of the mountains, Erik drew his inspiration from the tough shelters you find in the north that handle the brutal Alpine winters. He used this vibe to shape his unique house.
Curtain Wall Like a Second Skin
One of the first things you notice about Zaffhaus is there’s no roof hanging over the edges. This bold move really makes the house pop against the backdrop of Aymavilles and its old castle. But it’s not just about standing out—it fits right in. The curtain wall lines up perfectly with the roof and closed eaves, making for a sleek, unbroken line. The black PREFA DS.19 tiles match well with the greenery and woods around, giving the place a classy look. These tiles work well with other materials like local larch wood and plaster for outside insulation.
The DS.19 PREFA tiles add a unique visual touch to the project. They can go up either horizontally or vertically, starting from a 17° angle, allowing for a smooth look between the roof and the walls. This design feels like a second skin for the house, broken only by the larch wood cladding. These tiles look good and stand up to the weather, which is crucial in the Alpine climate.
Aesthetic Unity and Structural Integrity
Using DS.19 PREFA tiles, Erik achieved a unified look between the roof and the walls, similar to traditional aluminum tents. The load is distributed across it, making it possible for this house to withstand the severe mountain weather conditions. It is thus a house that is both strong and beautiful, as it pays tribute to the surrounding nature and yet brings in something new and contemporary.
Blending Sustainability, Functionality, and Economy
Zaffhaus isn’t just about looking good; it’s about being smart and sustainable. Erik mixed his creative ideas with practical needs, making a house that uses space well and fits his budget. “I didn’t want to overdo it,” Erik admits. “No big, expensive jobs. Just the basics, making a unique place that fits the mountain setting and my wallet.”
Every part of Zaffhaus was carefully planned to make living better. The inside layout is great for families, with a big kitchen/dehors area that has an amazing view of the castle. The entrance has a welcoming open-air living space, and the balconies upstairs keep the house’s clean look while offering great views of the castle and the area. It’s a perfect mix of indoor and outdoor living that fits modern life and respects nature.
Commitment to Environmental Sustainability
Environmental care was a big deal for Erik. The DS.19 PREFA tiles are made from recyclable aluminum and don’t skimp on quality. The house is also 80% energy self-sufficient thanks to 18 photovoltaic panels that total 7KW, helped by accumulators mounted on the roof with PREFA brackets. There’s also a heat pump heating system and a wood stove, giving a nod to traditional Alpine homes.
Zaffhaus stands as proof of Erik’s dedication to sustainability. The house not only reduces its impact on the environment but also shows how modern design can go hand in hand with green practices. From using recyclable materials to integrating renewable energy, every aspect of the house shows a commitment to keeping the natural beauty of the Aosta Valley.
A Family Home and Architectural Jewel
Zaffhaus is more than just an architectural gem; it’s also where Erik Zaffuto’s family lives. So as to resemble something the most, it brings out their love for art, imagination and neatness perfecting them all into something so fly in the Aosta Valley Alps for instance. The proper solutions help him achieve better results with regards to cost making this an important project he works on. For more than 15 years he has had an association with PREFA which makes him rely on its reliability and extensive knowledge about their products. He also chose local suppliers and installers, picking Dell’Innocenti Lamiere Srl as the supplier and Stefano Rean as the installer, continuing a decade-long partnership with PREFA.
Zaffhaus, with its innovative design, sustainability, and practicality, showcases Erik Zaffuto’s architectural skill and his deep bond with the mountain landscape he loves. This cozy yet striking home is a perfect example of how thoughtful design and a commitment to sustainability can create a living space that’s both beautiful and practical, shining as a beacon of modern architecture in the Aosta Valley.
