Protected by the Regional Directorate of Cultural Heritage and Activities decree of 06.12.2005, part 2 title 1 of Legislative 22 January 2004 No. 42
The object of this project involved the restoration of Palazzo Sonvilla, a stately building which is located in the heart of the historic center of San Daniele del Friuli.
It dates back to the 14th century and is an imposing presence in the town center for both its characteristics and its physical size.
The building complex comprises not only the main building, but also a secondary structure, called the Adjoining Cottage which was part of another restoration project.
Aside from being bound by the monument and landscape constraints, one of the challenges of the design project was to comply with the regulations on thermal and acoustic insulation and making the building wheelchair-accessible. The pursuit for the right balance calls for very advanced technical solutions.
There was a strong desire to reclaim the historical identity of the building, highlighting the artistic characteristics that distinguish it.
The construction materials of the interiors and exteriors in the common area were maintained and enhanced with traditional treatments, respecting the specific characteristics and agreed in advance with the government department responsible for architectural, archeological, artistic and historical heritage. Elements of importance were the staircase, the coffered ceilings on the ground floor and the original wooden beams.
The internal spaces were subdivided to accommodate floor plans for modern, contemporary lifestyles.
Contrary to the original method, all the restorations were done using ready-finished surface interior drywalls which were applied like a ‘second skin’ in order not to compromise the historic structure. The courtyard was also subjected to a makeover, a portion of it was devoted to parking spaces while the rest was turned into a private garden.