The First Supper - Italian Rural Housing Reimagined
Our vision for the modern Cascina is to establish a gathering place where people can reconnect with a way of life centred around the concept of “The First Supper.” We want to celebrate Italians’ passion for their food and art with family and friends—and intertwining the social moments while satisfying the residential program using the existing structures was an exciting challenge.
This experience provides an authentic farm-to-table journey, granting participants insights into the life cycle of our daily consumption. It entails active involvement in cultivation, cooking, dining, and waste recycling. Furthermore, it pays homage to the cherished Italian tradition of communal dining, fostering sharing, learning, and love. The large gathering occurs within the original “Porch”, which serves as the new central public hub. Beyond dining, the Porch adapts to various functions, such as a library or event venue.
Team: Feifei Feng, Qingdong Hu, Zhiyan Xu, Hankin Tang
Public spaces radiate outward from the Porch, establishing a continuous network of pathways, both indoors and outdoors, such as it connects to the art gallery of the “Stable” and a sunken bar under the “Main house” and a new Greenhouse transformed from the “Pigsty”. The design promotes fluid and convenient connections between public and private areas.
Taking inspiration from the seasonal “water mirror” found in the site’s rice fields, we’ve integrated water and mirroring effects throughout the design, symbolizing cycles of decay and growth. These mirroring elements extend the building’s facades and original roof structures. The amalgamation of floor, wall, and roof signifies the cyclical nature of the natural world. The water feature enhances the site’s tranquility, providing opportunities for introspection and the practice of mindful living.
