eucalyptus wood structure crafts guabo house by ese colectivo in ecuador

Quinta Fachada, an architecture studio based in Ibarra, Ecuador, has developed 'Taller Atemporal,' a multifunctional 18-square-meter space designed to serve as a coworking area, showroom, project workshop, and architectural office. The project emphasizes sustainable design and construction practices, focusing on minimizing environmental impact and optimizing resource use within the specific climatic conditions of Ecuador. The primary structural material chosen for Taller Atemporal is laminated wood, selected for its low environmental footprint, durability, and energy efficiency. This wood is responsibly sourced from certified forests, aligning with the studio's commitment to sustainability. The use of prefabricated wooden components significantly reduces the construction duration, contributing to overall efficiency and minimizing on-site waste. This approach not only speeds up the building process but also ensures a high level of precision and quality in the construction. To enhance the building's thermal and acoustic performance, polycarbonate and rice straws are incorporated into the facade design. These materials provide effective insulation, protecting the interior from noise and adverse weather conditions while maintaining a contemporary aesthetic. The thoughtful selection of these materials contributes to the energy efficiency of the structure, reducing the need for artificial heating or cooling. Internally, the space features low-maintenance OSB (Oriented Strand Board) panels, which are then coated with microcement. This combination offers both durability and a refined finish, suitable for a professional and versatile environment. A key design element is the large tempered glass facade, which opens the interior to the surrounding landscape. This integration of glass allows abundant natural light to penetrate the space, enhancing the visual connection with the outdoors and reducing reliance on artificial lighting during the day. Quinta Fachada's design for Taller Atemporal adopts a holistic approach to sustainability. The single, open-plan layout is adaptable, allowing for flexible use across its various functions—coworking, showroom, workshop, and office. The roof is not merely a protective element but acts as a significant structural and symbolic feature, contributing to the overall aesthetic and functional integrity of the building. This open design, combined with strategic solar orientation, ensures optimal thermal comfort without compromising energy efficiency. The natural light that floods the space further shapes the interior experience, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere conducive to productivity and creativity. The project underscores Quinta Fachada’s dedication to innovative, environmentally conscious architecture that responds effectively to its local context. By prioritizing sustainable materials, prefabrication techniques, and passive design strategies, Taller Atemporal serves as a practical example of how small-scale architectural interventions can achieve high standards of environmental responsibility and functional versatility. #prefabricatedWood #multifunctionalSpace #sustainableArchitecture #QuintaFachada #EcuadorianArchitecture #lowEnvironmentalFootprint #coworkingSpace #laminatedWood #OSBpanels

Andes House, located in Puembo, a rural area on the outskirts of Quito, Ecuador, is a private residence designed by Correa+Fatehi | ODD. Completed in 2021, the project redefines the relationship between architecture, landscape, and materials. The design emphasizes integration with its environment, utilizing locally sourced materials and drawing inspiration from the Andean topography. The house's construction prominently features materials derived directly from its site. Excavated earth is compacted to form rammed earth walls and cast into custom adobe bricks. This choice of material not only grounds the structure physically but also provides functional benefits, such as regulating indoor temperature and light. The breathable, ventilated façade casts dynamic shadows throughout the day and emits a soft glow at night, transforming the otherwise monolithic structure into an atmospheric presence. The architectural strategy for Andes House incorporates a landscape design that mirrors the surrounding highland wilderness. The residence appears to rise from sculpted mounds of native vegetation, creating a seamless transition between built and natural environments. Access to the house is integrated into these sculpted mounds, with pathways reminiscent of the Chaquiñán, the ancestral Andean trails, guiding visitors through a sequence of spaces that gradually reveal the structure. This processional approach culminates in a sunken threshold, initiating an immersive sectional experience within the house. From an exterior perspective, Andes House presents itself as a compact, vertical monolith, appearing discreet and firmly rooted in its location. Internally, the design focuses on spatial flexibility and dynamic organization across three levels. A key feature is a mobile platform that traverses all floors, serving not merely as a circulation element but as a mechanism to adapt the living spaces. This mobility allows various programs within the house to shift, merge, and reconfigure, accommodating changing needs and uses over time. The second level of the house extends outward into a plateau featuring both an interior pool and an exterior garden. Operable glazing divides these two spaces, enabling them to merge and unite the interior living area with the external landscape. This design choice further blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments, enhancing the connection to nature. Correa+Fatehi | ODD, the architectural studio behind Andes House, was founded by Lucas Correa and co-directed with Parshan Fatehi. The firm, established in 2015, operates from Quito, Ecuador, and is expanding to Toronto, Canada. Their work is recognized for spatial clarity, material intelligence, and an approach described as adaptive grounding, which treats each project as a system influenced by its context, materials, and long-term functionality. Their portfolio includes residential, hospitality, and urban design projects, all aiming to produce architecture that is both rooted in its environment and forward-looking in its design principles. Andes House exemplifies this philosophy, showcasing an architecture that is deeply attuned to its site's contours and conditions, resulting in a dwelling characterized by quiet intentionality and environmental sensitivity. #AndesHouse #EcuadorArchitecture #SustainableDesign #RammedEarth #ModernResidence #CorreaFatehi #ArchitecturalInnovation #ContextualArchitecture #SouthAmericanArchitecture

Taller General, an Ecuador-based architectural studio, has completed La Miradora, a residential project situated in the rural landscape of Machachi. The house is located at an altitude of 3,403 meters above sea level within the Páramo ecosystem, a tropical wetland region in the Andes. Its strategic positioning along the highest point of an elongated plot allows the dwelling to provide expansive views of a steep ravine, with a backdrop of meadows and distant volcanoes. The design of La Miradora is meticulously integrated with the land's natural slope, allowing for a two-level interior organization. The upper floor accommodates the main living areas for the primary residents, featuring wide windows that optimize natural light and ventilation. A loft on this level offers framed views of the surrounding volcanoes to the north and south. The lower level, designed to be smaller due to the terrain, provides additional rooms and service areas for visiting family members, ensuring functionality without compromising the house's compact appearance on the slope. The architects at Taller General prioritized both communal gathering spaces and individual privacy in the layout of La Miradora. The dwelling encourages interaction while offering secluded areas for residents and guests. Outdoor circulation is thoughtfully incorporated through a covered ramp that runs along one side of the house. This ramp provides direct exterior access to the main level and acts as a sheltered pathway, mediating between the interior and the outdoor environment, and offering a series of framed views of the Páramo landscape. Ecological performance was a key consideration in the design. La Miradora utilizes solar panels for electricity, and a sophisticated grey and black water treatment system. This system includes grease traps, a biodigester, and a wetland, ensuring that all water is treated before being released back into the ground. This closed-loop system mirrors the natural water cycle of the Páramo, emphasizing the project's commitment to environmental sustainability and minimizing its impact on the fragile ecosystem. The construction also minimizes waste by leaving materials exposed, such as wood, brick, and metal, thereby eliminating the need for additional coatings or plasters. This approach highlights the structural honesty of the building and reduces material consumption. The house's structure is characterized by an array of ten wooden ribs, spaced 2.44 meters apart. Each rib consists of four inclined elements that converge upwards, forming protective eaves and supporting the upper level. On the north side, these ribs rest on a brick base that conforms to the slope, while on the south side, they extend into durable metal members designed to withstand environmental elements and adapt to the terrain's gradient. This adaptable structural system allows for variations in rhythm to accommodate specific spatial requirements, such as the loft, and to maximize outward views. The combination of wood, brick, and metal creates a balanced aesthetic that conveys both shelter and exposure, durability and lightness. The extensive roofline and eaves offer protection to the timber and regulate sunlight penetration into the interior spaces, enhancing comfort and energy efficiency. Local craftsmen were integral to the project, contributing their skills in wood, metal, ceramics, and textiles for integrated lamps, furniture, and partitions, which further enrich the material expression of the house. #ResidentialArchitecture #EcuadorianArchitecture #SustainableDesign #PáramoEcosystem #VolcanoViews #NaturalMaterials #EcoFriendlyHome #Machachi #TallerGeneral

The article explores Casa Toquilla, a project by Ecuador-based Rama Estudio, which aims to revive vernacular architecture and local construction techniques in the aftermath of a devastating 2016 earthquake. The initiative addresses the displacement of 80 families from the island of Portete in the Province of Esmeralda, who, upon moving to the mainland, lost their connection to traditional building methods, local materials like bamboo, wood, toquilla straw, and kade, and a sense of ownership over their homes. These endemic materials had been stigmatized as low-quality alternatives to modern materials such as zinc plates, blocks, and concrete. Rama Estudio collaborated with the Portete community to develop Casa Toquilla, emphasizing responsible, respectful, and responsive architectural intervention. The project involved an extensive process of understanding site safety concerns, evaluating traditional construction techniques, and utilizing locally available materials. Through community discussions, experiments, and active participation, the architects and residents co-created three prototype houses: Casa Toquilla L, Casa Toquilla M, and Casa Toquilla S. These designs are rooted in sustainable design principles and feature bamboo construction. The housing trilogy comprises prototypes designed to cater to different family sizes, economic capacities, and ease of execution. Casa Toquilla L, the largest at 80 sqm, is a single-floor residence accommodating up to eight people, designed with elderly users and ease of movement in mind. It includes two bedrooms and a common area. Its thermal performance is enhanced by a floor grid for cold air recirculation and pambil screens with mosquito nets. Casa Toquilla M, covering 70 sqm, is a two-story structure for eight members, featuring ample meeting spaces and built on a raised deck to ensure material durability. Casa Toquilla S, the smallest at 60 sqm, optimizes space with an open-plan layout and omits the first-floor balcony present in Casa Toquilla M. A key aspect of Casa Toquilla's uniqueness lies in the integration of technical details into the spatial development. The toquilla straw weave is incorporated directly into the residential architecture, and the roof profile and attic spaces create functional areas on the upper floors. Pambil screens, highly resistant to weather and humidity, enclose the elevations and form the facade. These elements also facilitate cross-ventilation, creating open and comfortable living spaces. The project also included practical training for the local community in bamboo construction and toquilla straw weaving, fostering local labor engagement and knowledge transfer. The houses were treated with various preservation and curing methodologies to assess their durability in a humid and saline coastal environment, with the goal of creating accessible and efficient construction techniques. The initiative has led to the replication of its methodology in three additional homes in the area, demonstrating its potential for wider application and impact. The project serves as an example of humanitarian architecture, showcasing how responsible design can help a displaced community reconnect with its cultural heritage and build a sustainable future. #VernacularArchitecture #Ecuador #RamaEstudio #SustainableDesign #BambooConstruction #ToquillaStraw #CommunityParticipation #PostEarthquakeReconstruction #ResidentialDesign

The Rio Cedro House, designed by Plan:b arquitectos and completed in 2011, is situated in Moñitos, Colombia, on the Caribbean Sea coastline. This architectural project integrates with a tropical dry forest ecosystem, emphasizing a design approach that respects and responds to its natural surroundings. The house's location allows it to interact closely with both the forest and the sea, informing its material choices, spatial organization, and environmental strategies. Sergio Gomez provided the photography for the project. The design of the Rio Cedro House is characterized by its open structure and use of locally available materials. Wood, in particular, is a prominent material, selected for its aesthetic qualities, sustainability, and ability to blend with the natural environment. The house features elevated platforms and permeable enclosures that facilitate natural ventilation and offer panoramic views of the landscape. This open-plan approach helps to blur the boundaries between the interior and exterior spaces, promoting a continuous interaction with nature. The strategic placement of windows and openings maximizes natural light and minimizes the need for artificial cooling, contributing to the building's energy efficiency. Environmental considerations are central to the Rio Cedro House's design. The architects focused on creating a structure that is both resilient to the tropical climate and minimally impactful on the delicate ecosystem. The elevated design helps protect the house from potential flooding and allows the natural ground cover to thrive beneath. The use of natural materials and passive design techniques reflects a commitment to sustainable architecture. The house acts as a model for integrating modern living with environmental preservation, demonstrating how structures can coexist harmoniously with diverse natural habitats. The house's program includes various living spaces tailored to its coastal forest setting. These spaces are designed to be flexible and adaptable, catering to different activities while maintaining a strong connection to the outdoors. The layout promotes a fluid movement between rooms and encourages occupants to engage with the surrounding environment. This project exemplifies how thoughtful architectural design can enhance the human experience by immersing residents in a natural setting while adhering to principles of sustainability and ecological sensitivity. The integration of the house with its site in Moñitos, Colombia, showcases a balanced approach to development in sensitive ecological zones. #ResidentialArchitecture #Houses #Colombia #Moñitos #WoodConstruction #TropicalArchitecture #SustainableDesign

OJA (Organic and Joyful Architecture), an Argentinian studio, developed Casa Gallareta, a 250-square-meter boutique holiday complex nestled within the native Coihues and Arrayanes forest of Villa la Angostura, Patagonia. Lead architects María Ayelén Olivieri Martinez and Juan Segundo Diaz Dopazo aimed to create a retreat that harmonizes with the natural environment, utilizing the region's steep slopes, panoramic views, and proximity to Lake Correntoso. The project consists of several timber-clad cabins, designed to offer tourists an immersive experience within the forested surroundings. The core design principle of Casa Gallareta emphasizes integration with the landscape. Each cabin is conceptualized as an extension of the forest, blending into the environment through a balance of structured design and natural placement. The architectural language deliberately connects the built spaces with nature, ensuring that while the cabins share a cohesive aesthetic, each possesses unique characteristics. The strategic positioning of the cabins involved identifying and utilizing vacant spaces within the forest, thereby avoiding any deforestation. This approach reflects the architects' commitment to creating a structure that coexists with the ecosystem without intrusion. The cabins feature an inventive spatial arrangement that blurs the lines between the interior and the forest, all within a compact footprint. The exterior of each structure is clad in eucalyptus wood, treated with the traditional Japanese Shou Sugi Ban technique. This method involves charring the wood surface, which not only creates a distinct texture but also enhances its durability, water resistance, and fire retardancy. The resulting darkened facade, complemented by materials like lapacho wood, black zinguería, glass, and exposed concrete, establishes a visual contrast against the vibrant green trees and snow-covered landscapes. In contrast to the robust exterior, the interiors are designed to evoke tranquility and spaciousness. Guatambú, a light-colored, knot-free wood, is used for the seamless interior coating. This material choice creates an exquisite contrast with the charred exterior and contributes to an expansive feel within the cabins. The use of large Guatambú slabs also streamlined the construction process. Furthermore, all interior furniture is custom-designed to match the materiality of the walls, contributing to a clean, monolithic, and minimalistic aesthetic throughout the living spaces. The design incorporates expansive windows, strategically placed to offer immersive views of the surrounding myrtle trees while maintaining privacy for guests. #PatagoniaArchitecture #EucalyptusWood #ShouSugiBan #SustainableArchitecture #CabinDesign #BoutiqueHotel #OJAArchitecture #TimberArchitecture #ArgentinianDesign

Studio MK27, led by architect and filmmaker Marcio Kogan, designed the Vista House, an 8,343-square-foot seaside villa in Trancoso, Bahia province, Brazil. Completed in early 2020, the residence is situated atop a 46-meter-high cliff, offering expansive views of the ocean and its escarpments. The design of the house was significantly influenced by its tropical environment and the need to frame the panoramic ocean vista, which the architects describe as being captured "like a wide-angle camera." The central feature of the Vista House is its impressive low-slung, gabled roof, measuring approximately 15 meters wide, 3.5 meters tall, and 60 meters long. This substantial wooden roof creates a sense of scale and protection, beneath which the living areas are strategically placed. The roof's exterior is clad in hand-carved wooden shingles, adding to the organic aesthetic, while the outer structure is wrapped in eucalyptus staves. The elongated volume of the roof delineates the horizontal proportions of the house, with its ends enclosing the kitchen and the primary bedroom. These two enclosed volumes serve as anchor points for the structure, while the space beneath the central portion of the roof is largely open to the environment, fostering an indoor-outdoor living experience. The main living areas are designed to be fluid and connected to the surrounding landscape. A notable aspect of the interior is the inclusion of four additional bedrooms housed within a smaller, interior volume. This inner structure is set back from the exterior walls and constructed from Viroc, a composite panel made from wood and cement. The Viroc panels function as folding screens, allowing the inner house to open completely or to be shuttered for privacy and climate control, providing flexibility in how the space is used. The architectural team carefully considered the interplay of Brazil's intense sunlight with the chosen materials. The perforated Viroc panels and the slender eucalyptus staves create dynamic patterns of light and shadow throughout the home. Furthermore, the expansive overhang of the gabled roof offers ample shade, enabling residents to comfortably enjoy the outdoors regardless of weather conditions. The interiors are characterized by a restrained palette of creamy tones and wood finishes, which contrast with the more organic, textured exterior. This polished interior design complements the softer, natural feel of the external cladding. The design philosophy of Vista House emphasizes a harmonious integration with its natural surroundings, utilizing local materials and an open plan to maximize views and outdoor living. The architectural execution ensures both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality, allowing for a deep connection between the inhabitants and the stunning Brazilian coastline. The project exemplifies Studio MK27's approach to creating residences that are deeply rooted in their context while offering modern, flexible living spaces. #BrazilianArchitecture #BeachHouseDesign #StudioMK27 #GabledRoof #IndoorOutdoorLiving #TropicalArchitecture #EucalyptusCladding #VirocPanels #ArchitecturalDesign

Casa Cóndor is a family residence situated on a 2,000 sqm plot of land in one of the valleys of Loja, Ecuador. The architectural firm Freddy Bonilla Estudio designed and constructed the house with significant involvement from a local workforce, emphasizing the revival of Ecuadorian vernacular architecture. The design integrates traditional materials and construction techniques, with a strong focus on sustainability and self-sufficiency. The residence primarily utilizes mud, wood, adobe masonry, bamboo, reed, brick, and tile. Notably, many of these materials were repurposed from a disused house on the same site, which the team meticulously dismantled. This approach not only promotes recycling but also preserves the local architectural heritage and reduces environmental impact. A defining characteristic of Casa Cóndor is its abundance of portals and terraces, designed to encourage outdoor living and capitalize on the scenic views of the surroundings. The interior layout is thoughtfully planned to delineate social and private spaces. On the ground floor, C-shaped walls separate a double-height living room and kitchen area from two bedrooms that can be merged into a single larger space using sliding doors. The first floor accommodates a suite, a laundry room, and a terrace that provides expansive views of both the exterior landscape and the living room below. From a structural standpoint, the construction employs a combination of bamboo, soil, and reed, all sourced and harvested locally by a skilled master builder. The ground floor's recycled tile roof is supported by a robust wooden foundation, featuring two large trusses. These trusses rest on the walls and posts, serving to shelter the portals and create the impressive double-height ceilings in the living room and master bedroom. The upper floor features two inverted, funnel-shaped water tanks that shield the suite and collect rainwater. This collected water feeds a pond, providing a water source for domestic animals. The suite's distinctive architectural character includes a wing-like roof, which cleverly incorporates a skylight. This design element ensures ample natural light penetration and enhances the spatial breathability within the suite. The house emphasizes self-sufficiency through its integrated systems. The bathroom facilities are connected to a biodigester, an anaerobic digester that processes wastewater. The treated wastewater is then utilized to irrigate crops, establishing a closed-loop system that minimizes waste and maximizes resource efficiency. Freddy Bonilla Estudio views Casa Cóndor as a testament to the enduring effectiveness and power of vernacular knowledge, highlighting the importance of its transmission, improvement, and application for future generations. #VernacularArchitecture #SustainableDesign #EcuadorianArchitecture #RecycledMaterials #SelfSufficientHome #TerraceLiving #WoodAndTimberArchitecture #MudConstruction #AdobeMasonry

The Tierramor retreat in Nosara, Costa Rica, commissioned Bali-based architectural firm Ibuku to design a new wellness space called the Maloca Dome. Ibuku, known for its sustainable bamboo structures, was founded in 2010 by Elora Hardy. The firm has completed various projects globally, including homes, hotels, schools, and event spaces. The Maloca Dome project aims to create a multi-functional space for yoga, meditation, and ceremonial gatherings, harmonizing with its 800-acre reforested mountain setting. The design prioritizes sustainability, utilizing bamboo as the primary structural component and emphasizing low-impact construction techniques to minimize environmental disturbance. Architect Lucas Schlüter describes the Maloca Dome as an organic extension of the landscape, positioned on a hilltop to blend seamlessly with its surroundings and frame the natural beauty of the area. The interior features an open, adaptable floorplan that can accommodate various group sizes and activities, from intimate gatherings to large ecstatic dance sessions. Strategic placement of openings and architectural elements enhances views, connecting occupants with the exterior environment. The design process began with an analysis of the site's views, vegetation, airflow, and light, integrating these natural aspects with Costa Rica’s building traditions. Ibuku drew inspiration from the vernacular architecture of Costa Rica, particularly the pre-Columbian 'cosmic house,' a cone-shaped building that held religious significance for the region's early inhabitants. This traditional form was reinterpreted for the 21st century to create the Maloca Dome. The design principle of "designing for nature with nature" guided material selection and building shape. Bamboo poles, for instance, necessitated long, steeply pitched overhangs to protect them from direct sunlight and rain, allowing for the integration of natural roofing materials. One of the main challenges for the project was adapting Ibuku's Indonesian bamboo construction expertise to Costa Rica's high wind speeds. In collaboration with engineers at Atelier One, a cross-braced structural system was developed using leaning columns that expand and contract, framing the circulation area while creating a strong and flexible space. The yoga floor was designed to be round and column-free, providing unobstructed views of the hillside. Another challenge involved bridging the skills gap between local Costa Rican carpenters and Ibuku’s established bamboo craftsmanship. This was addressed by simplifying designs and, where necessary, substituting certain structural elements with steel, such as the ring beams in the roof, when traditional bamboo techniques were not feasible. Local carpenters quickly adapted their woodworking skills to bamboo, demonstrating increasing confidence and curiosity. Different types of bamboo were utilized to support the structure and enhance the design concept. Local Guadua Angustifolia bamboo was used for the main structural supports due to its straight poles, which visually elevate the roof. Meandering steel rings were integrated to hold the rafters in place and highlight the cosmic house's concept of different universal levels. Black Gigantochloa Atroviolacea bamboo from Indonesia was used to direct attention upwards to a central copper tip, contrasting with the light blond bamboo ceiling. The building also incorporates the local red soil from Tierramor’s hills into the flooring and walls, fostering a sense of grounding and connection to the site. Natural stone boulders from the river on site were used as a moisture barrier between the foundation and bamboo poles, while local wood shingles were chosen for the roof to blend visually with nature and create a calm appearance. Bamboo was deemed ideal for the project due to its sustainability, structural strength, and lightweight nature, aligning with Tierramor’s vision for a sustainable, nature-connected community. The project underscored the importance of adaptability and translating design principles to new cultural contexts. #BambooArchitecture #SustainableDesign #WellnessSpace #CostaRica #Ibuku #NaturalMaterials #BiophilicDesign #TraditionalCraftsmanship

Grupo Boreal, an architecture studio based in Córdoba, has completed Casa Elisa, a 170-square-metre residence located in the mountainous region of San Clemente, southwest of Córdoba, Argentina. The house features a striking bright white exterior, drawing inspiration from Ibizan architecture with its white walls, wavy plaster, and rounded edges. The studio strategically placed Casa Elisa on the highest point of a seven-hectare plot, which encompasses mountain ranges, native forest, and a stream, to maximize the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. This elevated position ensures that the main rooms of the house benefit from these scenic vistas. The design prioritizes natural light, especially during winter, through a U-shaped layout that embraces a north-facing patio. This outdoor area is also sheltered by a roof of colonial clay tiles, providing essential shade in the summer months. The single-story residence includes an external staircase, crafted from herringbone-patterned red brick, leading to a roof terrace. This red brick detailing extends to the outdoor flooring and the accessible roof deck, where tiles in a similar reddish hue enhance the Mediterranean aesthetic. The roof also integrates photovoltaic panels and a solar hot water tank, reflecting an environmentally conscious approach to energy generation for the home. Inside, Casa Elisa maintains a rustic, farmhouse-inspired ambiance with white walls and ceilings. Architectural details include arched wood doorways and openings that connect different rooms, along with exposed tree trunk-like beams across the ceilings. Wooden floors are used throughout the interior, complementing the natural material palette. The kitchen features wooden cabinets and an island topped with a curved stone counter. The bathroom incorporates a wooden sink, white-painted brick walls, and stone flooring. Casa Elisa is a testament to Grupo Boreal's vision of blending Mediterranean influences with the rugged Argentinian landscape, creating a dwelling that is both aesthetically pleasing and functionally integrated with its environment. The project highlights a commitment to sustainable living through its energy solutions and thoughtful consideration of natural light and views. The design successfully marries traditional architectural elements with modern living requirements, offering a serene and picturesque retreat. #CasaElisa #GrupoBoreal #ArgentinianArchitecture #IbizanInfluence #WhiteHouses #ResidentialDesign #SustainableLiving #MountainHome #RusticModern

The Pergola House in Playa Grande, Costa Rica, designed by Studio Saxe, represents a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor living, conceived after the clients experienced a personal loss and sought a fresh start in Costa Rica. The architectural design was specifically tailored to integrate with the vibrant natural landscapes of the region, focusing on a seamless transition between the home and its environment. The project's genesis stems from the clients' desire for a deep connection with nature and an active family lifestyle following the loss of their previous home to wildfires. The core concept of the Pergola House revolves around a series of elegant pergolas. These structures serve multiple functions: they unify the garden with the living spaces, extend the outdoor experience by inviting coastal breezes and panoramic mountain and ocean views into the home, and provide natural shade. The design is characterized by structured rib elements that can expand or contract, adapting to the surrounding topography and existing trees. This adaptability allowed for the incorporation of natural elements directly into the architectural scheme, with intentional gaps in the roofline to accommodate and celebrate the verdant vegetation. Sustainability was a paramount consideration in the design and construction of the Pergola House. The residence generates its own energy through solar power, while the extensive pergolas and overhangs provide natural shading to mitigate heat gain. Strategic placement of windows promotes natural cross-ventilation, drawing cool air from both the ocean and the mountains, thereby reducing reliance on artificial cooling systems. Furthermore, water recycling systems are implemented to irrigate the surrounding landscape, supporting local flora and contributing to the cooling of the home's exterior surfaces. This holistic approach ensures that the house not only minimizes its environmental footprint but also actively enhances its ecological setting. The construction process emphasized efficiency and minimal environmental impact. Prefabricated structural metal ribs were assembled on-site, a method chosen to reduce disruption to the natural landscape. This technique also offered flexibility, allowing the architecture to navigate around existing trees and challenging topographical features. The project utilized a combination of local materials and prefabricated elements, showcasing a commitment to light-touch construction that integrates innovation with traditional building practices. This approach underscores the project's dedication to both aesthetic harmony and ecological responsibility. Completed in December 2022, the Pergola House spans approximately 400 square meters. The design director for Studio Saxe was Benjamin G. Saxe, with interior design by Sofía Interiorismo, landscape design by Studio Saxe, structural engineering by GUIDI Estructurales, and electromechanical engineering by DYNAMO. C+C served as the builder. The clients expressed that the home symbolizes renewal and resilience, providing a sanctuary where family life can thrive amidst nature. The architectural philosophy captivated them with its seamless integration into the environment and its reflection of the inhabitants' personal journey, creating a dwelling that embodies hope and new beginnings in the vibrant Costa Rican landscape. #PergolaHouse #CostaRicanArchitecture #SustainableDesign #IndoorOutdoorLiving #StudioSaxe #PlayaGrande #TropicalArchitecture #EcoFriendlyHome

The "Patio House" project, designed by herchell arquitectos, is located in San Sebastián del Oeste Centro, Mexico, and was completed in 2022. The house occupies an area of 715 square meters and was photographed by Lorena Darquea Schettini, with Miguel Hernandez Michel as the lead architect. The project's core philosophy centers on challenging conventional living standards and offering an experiential escape from urban daily life. The architectural design of the Patio House prioritizes integration with nature, featuring central patios and exterior corridors supported by steel columns. This design aims to create a harmonious coexistence between the built environment and the natural surroundings, inviting residents to engage with an unknown and refuge-like experience. The emphasis on nature is evident in the inclusion of gardens and courtyards, which are integral to the living spaces. The house incorporates a variety of materials, primarily wood and brick, which contribute to its aesthetic and structural integrity. The design features large windows and open facades that allow ample natural light and views of the exterior. Interior spaces showcase exposed beams and columns, highlighting the structural elements as part of the design narrative. The floor plan, including both ground and upper levels, indicates a thoughtful arrangement of rooms around the central patio concept, promoting an open and fluid living environment. The house also includes elements such as stairs with handrails and various living areas, suggesting a multi-functional and comfortable residential space. The project's design aims to evoke a sense of detachment from the typical urban experience, providing a serene and immersive environment. The use of specific materials like wood and brick, combined with the strategic placement of patios, reinforces this intention by blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. The house is categorized under residential architecture and houses, reflecting its primary function while also highlighting its unique design approach. Overall, the Patio House by herchell arquitectos represents a contemporary approach to residential design in Mexico, focusing on challenging traditional living paradigms and creating a deep connection between the inhabitants and the natural world. The project's architectural elements, material choices, and spatial organization all contribute to its overarching goal of providing a distinctive and enriching living experience. #ResidentialArchitecture #PatioHouse #MexicanArchitecture #HerchellArquitectos #SanSebastianDelOeste #WoodAndBrick #NaturalIntegration #ArchitecturalDesign

Quito, Ecuador's capital, is undergoing a significant transformation, marked by the relaxation of height restrictions for towers, the relocation of its airport, and the imminent opening of its metro system. These developments are ushering in a new era of urban densification, attracting global architects and fostering a vibrant local design scene. This guide offers a curated tour of Quito's revitalized cityscape, highlighting key architectural marvels, culinary hotspots, and unique accommodations. Among the architectural highlights is Iqon, the tallest building in Quito, designed by Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG). This brutalist structure features a distinctive 'pineapple skin' facade, incorporating balconies designed for planting trees. BIG, in collaboration with local developer Uribe Schwarzkopf, is also developing Epiq, another urban forest project. These projects signify a commitment to integrating green spaces within urban high-rises. The Metro de Quito, an extensive 22.6km long tunnel system with 15 stations, represents the city's largest urbanism project. Completed ahead of schedule in 2019 but delayed in opening, the metro is set to significantly reduce the city's carbon footprint by 60,000 tons of CO2 annually, promising efficient and sustainable transportation for residents and visitors. Quito's culinary scene is also evolving, with establishments like Foresta offering sophisticated dining experiences. Chef Rodrigo Pacheco's restaurant sources much of its ingredients from his Bocavaldivia regenerative food forest. The indoor-outdoor space, designed by Estudio Felipe Escudero, features a striking glass roof that brings Ecuador's lush forest environment indoors. Roveta, a notable architectural coffee shop, provides an eco-conscious caffeine stop. Designed by Rama Estudio, it occupies a glass triangle at the base of the Alianza Tower, utilizing 100% recycled pine for its interiors and offering views of nearby midcentury architectural masterpieces. Unique living spaces contribute to Quito's modern appeal. Casa Parasito, a 12 sq m 'parasite' structure built on a shoestring budget on a grandmother's roof terrace, offers a clever contrast to the city's densification. This tiny home, now available on Airbnb, provides impressive views despite its compact size. Similarly, Qorner, designed by Moshe Safdie, offers micro-units for rent. One such unit, a 28 sq m studio named Doméstico, created by Juan Alberto Andrade and María José Váscones, features space-saving foldaway furniture, proving popular on Airbnb. The city also boasts significant cultural institutions, such as Fundación Guayasamín, the former home and studio of artist Oswaldo Guayasamín. This site, designed by the artist and completed by his nephew, Handel Guaysamín, houses Guayasamín's paintings and murals within his studio and the adjoining Capilla del Hombre, a monolithic chapel constructed from volcanic rocks. Culinary experiences also extend to Somos, a restaurant led by chef Alejandra Espinoza. Designed by Interni, it offers a superb tasting menu and features graffiti by Apitatan, celebrating Ecuador's bioregions and Indigenous wisdom. The establishment also includes a boutique selling local products. #QuitoArchitecture #UrbanDevelopment #SustainableDesign #TinyHomes #EcuadorTravel #DesignLedCityGuide #ContemporaryArchitecture #CulinaryExperience

The Mama Minka House, completed in 2023 in Bali, Indonesia, represents a compact and thoughtful retreat designed by Atelier Generations Vasudeva Design. Located within a forest in Uluwatu, the architectural concept for the villa is deeply influenced by the Wabi-Sabi philosophy, which emphasizes finding beauty in imperfection and embracing the natural environment. This design approach results in a structure that harmoniously blends simplicity and elegance with its lush surroundings. The villa spans an area of 202 square meters and was designed by a team including lead architects Putu Angga Prastika and Julius Saptian Gunawan, with architectural designers Febby Suryawan, Gayatri Wening Satyatama, and Sang Ayu Putu Cantika Anasthasia. The project's photography was captured by Indra Wiras. Key manufacturers involved in the project include LG and Modena, indicating a focus on quality and modern amenities within the Wabi-Sabi framework. The design of Mama Minka House incorporates elements that draw inspiration from Japanese aesthetics, evident in its grounded yet poetic architectural language. This influence is likely seen in the use of natural materials, minimalist forms, and a strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The Wabi-Sabi philosophy, with its appreciation for transient and imperfect beauty, suggests that the house embraces natural decay and the patina of age, allowing materials to express their inherent characteristics over time. Being situated in a forest in Uluwatu, the house likely features design solutions that maximize natural light, ventilation, and views of the surrounding greenery. This integration with nature is a hallmark of sustainable and thoughtful architectural design, promoting a sense of tranquility and connection to the environment for its occupants. The choice of Bali as a location further reinforces this connection, as the island is renowned for its natural beauty and a lifestyle that often seeks harmony with nature. The project underscores a contemporary interpretation of traditional design principles, adapting them to a modern residential context. The collaboration between the lead architects and architectural designers, along with the detailed photography, highlights the meticulous planning and execution involved in realizing the Mama Minka House as a unique architectural statement in Indonesia. #ResidentialArchitecture #Houses #WabiSabi #JapaneseAesthetics #UluwatuBali #ForestRetreat #NaturalMaterials #SustainableDesign

The Rio Perdido West Bungalows, designed by Studio Saxe, are located in Bagaces, Costa Rica, near a volcanic range. This project, completed in 2024 and spanning 816 square meters, consists of floating pavilions integrated into lush forests, offering views of a canyon. The design philosophy of Studio Saxe emphasizes connecting inhabitants with nature, aligning with the firm's broader approach to tropical architecture. The bungalows are part of a hospitality development that seeks to enhance the natural environment through its architectural language. The bungalows are designed to be light and environmentally sensitive, minimizing their impact on the surrounding ecosystem. This approach is rooted in the Studio Saxe's commitment to sustainable design, where structures are conceived as part of the landscape rather than an imposition upon it. The use of natural materials and careful siting are key elements in achieving this integration. The design strategy specifically addresses the challenges and opportunities presented by the unique topography and climate of Costa Rica's volcanic region. Structural engineering for the project was handled by SOTELA ALFARO and BILDTEK, ensuring the stability and safety of the elevated structures. UTSUPRA was responsible for the electromechanical systems, focusing on efficiency and minimal environmental footprint. JIMACO Constructores executed the construction, bringing the architectural vision to fruition. Dania Saragovia provided the interior design, ensuring that the internal spaces complement the natural external environment and provide comfort for guests. Key materials used in the construction include wood, steel, and concrete. Wood is extensively utilized for its aesthetic qualities and its ability to blend with the natural surroundings, as well as for its renewable properties. Steel provides structural integrity, especially for the 'floating' elements of the pavilions, allowing for large spans and a lighter visual impact. Concrete is likely used for foundations and other critical structural components, ensuring durability and stability in the tropical climate. The selection of these materials reflects a balance between architectural expression, structural requirements, and environmental considerations. The project falls under the category of 'Cabins & Lodges' and 'Hospitality Architecture,' indicating its function as accommodation for visitors seeking an immersive natural experience. The bungalows are situated in Bagaces, a location known for its ecological significance and proximity to volcanic landscapes. The design aims to create a harmonious relationship between the built environment and the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica, offering a serene retreat that respects and highlights its natural context. #HospitalityArchitecture #CabinsLodges #SustainableDesign #TropicalArchitecture #WoodenStructures #CostaRica #Bagaces #StudioSaxe

Pergola House, designed by Entopos Architects, is a residential project located in Agios Nikolaos, eastern Crete, Greece. The project involved the extension of an existing 80 m² building on an introverted 380 m² plot to accommodate a family of four, incorporating appropriate outdoor space and a pool. A significant design consideration was managing the intense summer heat characteristic of the region. The architectural approach focused on integrating the new additions with the existing structure while addressing the climatic challenges. The design aimed to create a comfortable living environment that balances indoor and outdoor spaces, with a particular emphasis on heat mitigation strategies. The extension increased the total area to 183 m², providing additional living areas for the family. Key features of the design likely include elements that provide shade and promote natural ventilation to combat the high temperatures. "Pergola House" in its name suggests the prominent use of pergolas, which are architectural features designed to offer shade and define outdoor living areas, particularly relevant in a hot climate like Crete. These structures typically support climbing plants or are fitted with slatted roofs to filter sunlight and create cooler microclimates. The project demonstrates how architectural interventions can transform an existing structure to meet contemporary family needs while responding to site-specific environmental conditions. The thoughtful integration of an outdoor pool further enhances the living experience, providing a recreational element that is also a common feature in homes designed for warm climates. The choice of materials and construction techniques would have been crucial in ensuring thermal comfort and durability in the Cretan environment. The involvement of Giorgos Sfakianakis Photography in documenting the project indicates a focus on capturing both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the design. The photographs would likely highlight the interplay of light and shadow, the relationship between the built form and the landscape, and the overall atmosphere of the redesigned home. The project's completion in 2023 signifies a modern approach to residential architecture in the region, blending contemporary design with a respect for local climatic conditions. The firm Entopos Architects, with lead architects Michalis Giannadakis and Christiana Karfi, specializes in residential projects in Greece. Their work on Pergola House reflects a contextual design philosophy, where the specificities of the site and climate are central to the architectural solution. The project serves as an example of how architects can enhance living spaces by considering both functional requirements and environmental factors. #ResidentialArchitecture #HouseDesign #Greece #AgiosNikolaos #EntoposArchitects #Crete #PergolaDesign #HeatMitigation

The 'Onjuku Beach House,' designed by Japanese architectural practice Bakoko, is a single-family residence situated in Onjuku, Japan, near the sandy white beaches southeast of Tokyo. The dwelling features a low-profile exterior that integrates with the local bluffs. Its construction employs traditional Japanese timber framing methods, utilizing modern technology to enhance efficiency and precision. The exterior is clad with cedar planks, which are treated with a preservative stain to achieve a weathered aesthetic. Sliding wooden shutters, positioned parallel to the wood deck, serve a similar function to the traditional Japanese engawa, providing a mechanism to enclose and protect the entire home from seasonal typhoons. The project incorporates advanced timber framing techniques, where traditional labor-intensive interlocking joints, historically used for earthquake-resistant structures, are now created with robotic machinery. This technology allows for the precise precutting of each joint in seconds. A timber supplier generates templates from blueprints, and then the lumber is accurately trimmed, numbered, and delivered to the construction site. This process enables workers to assemble the units like a large puzzle, using a wooden mallet to secure the joints. Additional bolts are incorporated to reinforce the structure and resist lateral forces, crucial for earthquake resistance. This innovative construction method significantly reduces the need for highly skilled woodworking labor on-site and achieves millimeter accuracy. Furthermore, it virtually eliminates waste during the construction phase. The entire structure can be erected in a single day due to the prefabrication and precision of the components. The article details the construction stages, starting from the foundations, and illustrates the assembly of the wood frame, the use of tongue and groove joints, and the installation of cedar cladding, both before and after treatment with a preservative. The final images showcase the completed exterior, including the porch, cedar deck, and sliding doors, highlighting the integration of traditional aesthetics with modern construction efficiency. The 'Onjuku Beach House' exemplifies a harmonious blend of traditional Japanese architectural principles with contemporary technological advancements. The design respects the local environment through its low-profile massing and material choices, while the construction methodology showcases a forward-thinking approach to efficiency, precision, and sustainability in timber construction. This project demonstrates how modern industrial processes can be leveraged to preserve and enhance historical building practices, particularly in regions prone to natural phenomena like typhoons and earthquakes. #Bakoko #OnjukuBeachHouse #JapaneseArchitecture #TimberFraming #EarthquakeResistantDesign #SustainableConstruction #CoastalArchitecture #PrecutTechnology