This private house, built on a 40 m² site on a protected historic environment, is designed to maximize the use of space and the penetration of light through the re-interpretation of traditional building elements and the incorporation of current glass technology. The planning demand for white timber cladding, single glazing and maximum transparency in all overhanging volumes is assimilated through an all glass envelope that hides its internal aluminium structure behind 50 mm wide white etched bands in the perimeter of all the panels. The proportions of the volume, its elements and the vertical emphasis echo those of the historical context, but the overall solution offers 21st Century performance instead of medieval draughts. The program is articulated vertically, bedrooms at the bottom and living space at the top to enjoy all the light available in the narrow street pattern. With these premises in mind, the circulation core is placed on the deepest corner of the plot and constricted to the bare minimum size. The staircase has a lift in its midst, where the metal grilles of old become backlit translucent glass panes - by a skylight during the day and by fluorescent fixtures at night - and the landing merges with each floor to avoid the need for corridors. Ingenuity is at play on all levels to enhance dual use of the space available. The architecture is based on internal mobility and transformation. The dwelling is conceived as a cabinet in which everything is coordinated and integrated. In the main bedroom the dressing room can be created and dissolved. Elsewhere light passes through windows, is modulated by translucent screens and bounces on a restricted palette of materials – white lacquer, oak and white plaster – to create an atmosphere of comfort and calm.