If You Must Build, Let's Do It in Wood! 2026

Excerpted from Rifare Casa No. 58 – July/August 2018
Author: Nicla de Carolis
«… Innovations, design, timelines and clean construction methods, the air quality and temperature comfort thanks to insulation that you enjoy in new wooden houses, make these buildings truly desirable…»

The Decline of New Construction in Italy

From 2005 to 2017, permits to build and expand houses in Italy dropped from 305,000 to 55,000 – a decline of about 85%. For those of us who advocate “stop land consumption,” this is good news. We believe no new houses are needed; it’s enough to renovate existing ones. This heavy decline is certainly due to the crisis, but it has also been helped by political choices that, for once, wisely boosted tax incentives for building recovery, increasing the revenue related to these interventions. There has also been talk for a long time about the proposed law STOP LAND CONSUMPTION TO SAVE THE LANDSCAPE AND AGRICULTURAL ACTIVITY, which Europe also asks us to implement by 2050. So far, only a few mayors are moving autonomously in this direction within their powers.

Why a Dossier on New Wooden Houses?

After this clear stance – hoping to recover every stone or brick of value from our enviable building heritage (excluding the ugly, energy-hungry, graceless houses of the 1960s) and not steal more soil from the landscape – you may wonder why we dedicate a large dossier to building new houses. It would seem a contradiction. But the world of wooden houses today – once disparagingly labeled “prefabricated” – has evolved in such an interesting way that it must be seriously considered with admiring wonder. Innovations, design, timelines and clean construction methods, the air quality and temperature comfort thanks to insulation that you enjoy in new wooden houses, make these buildings truly desirable. The evolution has also advanced from an aesthetic point of view, creating structures very different from the mountain cabins that characterized them in the past. They are excellent for raising floors due to their lightness, but also for expansions, as we can see in the cover photo.

Essential Tools and Supplies for Your Wooden House Project

Whether you’re building new or renovating, having the right home improvement tools and materials is crucial. For outdoor spaces around your new wooden home, consider garden supplies to create a beautiful landscape. Don’t forget to plan your outdoor patio furniture for relaxing on the deck, and set the mood with lighting both inside and out. For the kitchen, explore kitchen islands and carts to maximize functionality. Choose dining tables that bring the family together, and cozy sofas for the living room. For restful nights, select quality beds and mattresses. In the bathroom, bathroom vanities add style and storage. Decorate your walls with wall decor and mirrors, and add warmth with rugs and curtains.

Outdoor Structures and Comfort

For your garden, sheds and greenhouses are perfect for storage and gardening. Create shade with pergolas or gazebos. Enjoy outdoor cooking with BBQ grills and outdoor cooking supplies, and extend the season with outdoor heating. Illuminate your evenings with outdoor lighting.

Furnishing Every Room

Complete your home with TV and entertainment furniture, bookcases and shelving units, and display shelving and etageres. For the bedroom, nightstands and dressers offer practical storage. Set up a home office with desks and work surfaces and office chairs. Don’t forget storage benches for entryways or patios.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are wooden houses energy efficient?

Yes, modern wooden houses offer excellent insulation, keeping indoor temperatures comfortable and reducing energy costs. Pair them with energy-efficient lighting for even greater savings.

2. Can I expand my existing home with a wooden structure?

Absolutely. Wooden additions are lightweight and ideal for expansions or raising floors. Use home improvement tools to manage the project smoothly.

3. What kind of maintenance do wooden houses require?

Regular treatment and sealing protect the wood. For outdoor structures like pergolas or gazebos, periodic care ensures longevity.

4. Are wooden houses safe in earthquakes?

Yes, wood is flexible and performs well in seismic events. Proper engineering and garden supplies for site preparation are key.

5. How do I furnish a wooden house?

Choose natural materials and cozy furnishings. Browse sofas, dining tables, and rugs to complement the wood aesthetic.

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