The Residenza Villa Branca
I have always been fascinated by this building in Melide. A "Palace" on a prime spot in a very bad condition, once property of Alfredo Branca and his family, traditional wine makers. Surprisingly it was not that old as the main building was completed in 1912. The Villa Branca was unique in its kind because it was both a wine cellar and a luxury residence. The villa was abandoned in 1981 when Adele Branca died.
Unfortunately the villa was not restored or restructured, but has been demolished instead in June 2010.
It will now be replaced by 5 different buildings that are going to be united at the ground level and top floor, housing 49 luxury apartments and an undergound garage for 100 cars. The total content of the constructions will be about 4000 m3. A 500 m2 area will also be created for public enjoyment, probably directly on the lake. The maximum height of the construction will be no more than 15 meters.
The "Residenza Villa Branca" is being designed by architect Giorgio Giudici and the exceution is being managed by Archiconsult SA of Lugano. Rumours are an investment of CHF 25M is being made. Construction is expected to start still in 2010 and will be completed towards the end of 2012.
We are looking forward to publishing more news on the "Nuova Villa Branca". In the meantime you can contact Archiconsult SA in Lugano by phone: +41 (91) 9233745 or archiconsult@ticino.com.
September 2010: The property now appears on Homegate.ch and on the site of Chiancianesi e Longoni Investimenti Immobiliari.
