Casa Santos on Mexico’s Baja Peninsula has ribbed concrete walls

Muka Arquitectura has completed the Fuensanta House, a residential project in Ciudad Real, Spain. This unique dwelling serves as the inaugural structure in a largely undeveloped urban area, addressing the uncertainty of future adjacent constructions by adopting a fortress-like design. The house features ribbed concrete walls, distinguished by a corduroy-like texture, and is crowned with a pitched roof. Two substantial abutments extend above the main structure, contributing to its robust appearance. The exterior presents a small, recessed doorway within its brown concrete facade, emphasizing its self-contained nature. The architects chose this robust, isolated design due to the lack of existing architectural context or typological references in the surrounding unbuilt plots. The project's full integration and contextual meaning are anticipated to evolve as neighboring plots are developed, positioning the Fuensanta House as the initial element in the urban development of Ciudad Real. Three slender glass boxes vertically span the facade, accommodating a bathroom, a bar, and a staircase. These translucent elements are veiled with white frosted glass, featuring a ridged texture that visually complements the concrete, while simultaneously allowing natural light to permeate the interior spaces. The design intentionally conceals any overt domestic indicators, reinforcing the structure's singular and preparatory role within the evolving urban landscape. Internally, a double-height void centrally bisects the building. On one side of this void, a narrow galley kitchen and an adjoining dining room are situated. Below these, at the basement level, a toilet and a storage room are located. The opposing side of the void houses a reception room, a garage, and a utility room. The kitchen benefits from porthole skylights integrated into the concrete ceiling and wall, which project distinct light patterns onto the interior surfaces. A suspended corridor traverses the atrium, connecting the master bedroom, which is situated within the larger of the two end blocks, to a sauna located in the smaller block. The elevated walkway features steel base plates with slits, allowing light to filter through, and is secured to the ceiling by a series of metal cables. The interaction of sunlight entering through the glass bays with the textured concrete walls creates dynamic patterns of light and shadow, highlighting the material's rich characteristics. Behind the elevated walkway, four concrete cuboids are arranged between the two end blocks. Two of these cuboids house double-height bedrooms, characterized by wood-paneled interiors designed to enhance the vertical dimension. The remaining two cuboids are two-storey spaces, each containing a bathroom on the ground level and a study above, and are connected to the adjacent bedrooms. Curved metal rungs provide access to glass-fronted perches that project from each study. Each bedroom cubicle also incorporates a strip of glazing on its back wall for additional light and features a trio of teardrop-shaped bulbs. The external surfaces of the four volumes are illuminated by up-lights, emphasizing the textural details, crevices, and chips in the concrete, with low-consumption LEDs integrated into continuous strips within the concrete cracks for artificial lighting. #MukaArquitectura #FuensantaHouse #ConcreteArchitecture #SpanishArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #UrbanDevelopment #CiudadReal #TexturedConcrete

The Desert Wash home, designed by architect Brent Kendle of Kendle Design Collaborative, integrates with the Arizona desert landscape through its site-specific design and material choices. This 6,700-square-foot residence in Paradise Valley, Arizona, was created for a family of four and is named after the existing desert dry wash on the property, a drainage area susceptible to severe flooding. To address this natural challenge and embrace the environment, the home features an elevated glazed bridge that spans the dry wash, transforming a potential obstacle into a defining architectural element. The residence is thoughtfully designed to immerse its occupants in the natural surroundings while offering modern comforts and ample space for entertaining. The layout positions the majority of the home, including the master suite and three guest bedrooms, to the north of the dry wash. The foyer, an office, and one guest bedroom are situated to the south, connected by the aforementioned glazed bridge. This separation and connection allow for varied experiences within the home, highlighting the desert views from multiple vantage points. The material palette and neutral color scheme are deliberately chosen to harmonize the expansive structure with the desert environment. Rammed earth walls are a prominent feature, extending from the exterior into the interior, visually and texturally linking the dwelling to the earth. These walls, combined with extensive glazing, flat steel, and wood roofs with deep overhangs, define the architectural character. The use of predominantly white interior walls creates a bright and airy ambiance, serving as a neutral backdrop for the family’s art collection. Kendle Design Collaborative emphasizes that the Desert Wash home utilizes indigenous materials to delineate its main living spaces. The rammed earth walls literally bring the earth into the interior, providing a sense of rootedness and unity with nature. The design reflects a profound sensitivity to the site, respecting its natural topography and characteristics by nestling the home into the earth and spanning over the ancient wash. This approach ensures that the residence not only coexists with but celebrates the unique qualities of the Arizona desert. #DesertArchitecture #RammedEarth #SustainableDesign #ArizonaHomes #KendleDesignCollaborative #SiteSpecificDesign #ModernHome #IndoorOutdoorLiving

The Achioté project by Formafatal introduces the first rammed earth structures in Costa Rica, presenting a pair of minimalist villas available for rent in Playa Hermosa. These villas, named Jaspis and Nefrit, appear to float above a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, harmoniously integrated into a dense jungle environment. Dagmar Štěpánová of Formafatal led the design and construction, prioritizing sustainability and minimal environmental impact throughout the process. The conceptualization of the villas drew from the distinct energies of their respective locations. The Jaspis Villa, symbolizing jasper and bright aspects, embodies a yin energy, connecting with the sky and ocean, and features a light, sandy color palette. In contrast, the Nefrit Villa, representing jade and darker tones, aligns with a yang energy, establishing a connection to the earth and the surrounding jungle, characterized by a deep red-terracotta hue. Both villas boast cantilevered roofs that extend outward, mirroring the floor plans, to provide essential protection from the sun and various weather elements inherent to the tropical climate. A significant aspect of the villas' construction involved utilizing the very clay soil excavated from the site to create the rammed earth walls. This sustainable approach minimized the need for imported construction materials, contributing to the project's ecological footprint. Once the structures were complete, new tropical plants were integrated into the landscape, further enhancing the natural surroundings. The layered texture of the rammed earth walls is a prominent design feature, visually narrating the construction process. Each villa spans 90 square meters (approximately 969 square feet) and shares an identical size, layout, and orientation. Despite these similarities, their material choices and color schemes are distinct, reflecting their individual energetic inspirations. The central feature of each villa's interior is the bed, which can be enclosed by sliding curtains for privacy and mosquito protection, while frameless glass walls offer uninterrupted views of the natural landscape. An additional bed is available on the terrace for outdoor relaxation. Adjacent to each villa are built-in pools, designed to create an immersive jungle swimming experience. To execute the complex rammed earth construction, Formafatal collaborated with Brazilian specialist Daniel Mantovani of Terra Compacta, who provided training to local craftsmen. The interior spaces behind the beds house the kitchens and bathrooms, designed without doors to maintain an open and fluid connection within the living areas. Custom-made concrete elements, including bathroom sinks, shelves, kitchen counters, and bedside tables, are integral to the design, reflecting a cohesive material palette. The Nefrit Villa distinguishes itself with a darker, more introspective color scheme compared to its counterpart, despite their structural similarities. #AchioteProject #Formafatal #RammedEarth #CostaRicaArchitecture #SustainableDesign #TropicalVillas #EcoFriendlyHomes #JaspisVilla #NefritVilla

The ‘Santerra House,’ designed and constructed by Parma Arquitectura, is located in El Porvenir, in the heart of Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico. This residence showcases an innovative blend of rammed earth, burnt wood, and concrete, chosen specifically to respond to the region's arid climate. The project emphasizes sustainability, particularly through its use of earth as a primary building material. Rammed earth was selected for its low water consumption during construction, especially significant given the local dry conditions. A substantial portion of the earth used was sourced directly from the site through excavation, further reducing environmental impact. Beyond its minimal water requirements, rammed earth offers benefits such as humidity regulation and high thermal inertia. To capitalize on these properties, Parma Arquitectura implemented 40 cm thick rammed earth walls in all west-facing rooms, strategically placed to mitigate the high sun exposure experienced in the afternoons. The resulting texture and color variations of these walls organically integrate the house with its surrounding arid landscape, creating a harmonious aesthetic. Complementing the rammed earth, sections of the ‘Santerra House’ facades are clad in burnt wood, a technique known as ‘shou sugi ban.’ This traditional Japanese method enhances the wood’s durability and resistance while producing a rich spectrum of black tones that shift with the sunlight and viewing angle. This material choice not only contributes to the house’s resilience but also adds a distinctive visual character. The interior design of the dwelling is characterized by its minimalist approach, with a focus on functionality and connection to the outdoors. A key feature is the outdoor terrace, which acts as a natural extension of the living room, designed for social gatherings, meals, and family activities. This south-facing terrace is strategically enveloped by the building, providing shelter from strong winds. A wooden pergola covers the terrace, allowing sunlight to penetrate during the cooler winter months while offering ample shade in the hot summer, optimizing comfort throughout the year. Primarily conceived as a weekend retreat, the ‘Santerra House’ incorporates practical security features for when it is unoccupied. These include robust shutters and a wrought iron gate, ensuring the property remains secure. The architectural choices reflect a deep understanding of the local climate and an commitment to sustainable building practices, resulting in a residence that is both functional and aesthetically integrated with its environment. #SanterraHouse #RammedEarth #BurntWood #SustainableArchitecture #MexicanArchitecture #ValleDeGuadalupe #ParmaArquitectura #ThermalRegulation #ShouSugiBan

ROOM+ Design & Build has developed Cloud House, a co-living structure in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, addressing the increasing cost of urban housing. Situated on a 70-square-meter plot within a narrow 4-meter-wide alley, the building is surrounded by townhouses of varying heights and scales. This project aims to provide affordable yet high-quality living spaces for single individuals and couples with average incomes. The design of Cloud House is predicated on three main principles: creating loft-style private suites, incorporating multifunctional communal areas, and seamlessly integrating natural elements into the built environment. The structure offers six loft-style suites and two standard studios. Each loft unit is designed with a raised platform above the entry and bathroom areas, maximizing the usable space within the 3.5-meter floor-to-ceiling height. The interior aesthetic utilizes neutral materials and a subdued color palette, complemented by multifunctional furniture that is integrated with structural components. This includes wooden staircases and lightweight mezzanines constructed from steel frames and cement boards, enhancing both functionality and spatial efficiency. Communal spaces are strategically arranged to foster interaction and maximize utility. The ground floor and a central courtyard are allocated for bicycle and motorbike parking, an essential feature in the urban context of Ho Chi Minh City. A central spiral staircase serves as the primary circulation path, designed not only for movement but also to encourage informal social interactions among residents. Additional shared amenities include a seating area on the mezzanine level and a rooftop terrace, offering residents opportunities for relaxation and community engagement. Environmental performance is a key consideration in Cloud House's design. The facades and roof feature various circular and cloud-shaped openings, which facilitate natural ventilation and optimize daylight penetration. These openings also provide a degree of passive privacy control. The architectural approach creates a dynamic interplay between solid surfaces and voids, resulting in shifting patterns of light and shadow throughout the day. This contrast introduces visual and atmospheric variety, offering a refreshing departure from the dense urban fabric of the surrounding area. The distinctive fenestration and the overall geometry of Cloud House collectively aim to redefine small-scale urban housing, balancing affordability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal while promoting a sense of community and connection to the natural environment. #CloudHouse #CoLiving #HoChiMinhCity #UrbanArchitecture #VietnameseArchitecture #LoftDesign #SustainableDesign #SpatialEfficiency #ModernHousing

MA House, designed by architects Eduardo Cadaval and Clara Solà-Morales, is situated in Tepoztlán, a pre-Hispanic village south of Mexico City known for its natural environment and as a cultural retreat. This project functions as a holiday home, with future plans for it to become the owners' primary residence. The design emphasizes a strong connection between the structure, the surrounding landscape, and its inhabitants, achieving this through a combination of geometric forms and strategic material use. The house features monumental construction using volcanic stone and concrete. Its two diagonal peaks mirror the incline of the rocky mountains flanking the site, integrating the building into its natural surroundings while establishing a distinct architectural presence. To maximize the relationship with the outdoors, framed windows open up mountain views to the interior. Covered patios are strategically placed to intersect diagonally across the square plan, connecting three distinct 'pavilions' under a single, solid concrete roof. This layout creates natural outdoor living spaces that are integrated into the home's circulation. The primary construction material is locally sourced volcanic stone, which authentically links the house to its environmental context. The architects selected this material for its low maintenance and cost-effectiveness, despite the inherent challenges in using it structurally. The walls are 40cm thick and bear the entire load of the house, highlighting the principle that every element serves a functional purpose, rather than being mere decoration. This structural use of volcanic stone was a significant technical challenge for the design team. In addition to volcanic stone, the roof is constructed from waterproof concrete, which the architects chose to leave exposed without any additional finishes. This decision further reinforces the economical and functional approach to materials, allowing the raw beauty and inherent qualities of the construction elements to define the aesthetic. The diagonal patios and the sloping roof contribute to dynamic interplay of light and shadow throughout the day, adding to the house's visual interest and its connection to natural cycles. The interior design was a collaborative effort, with one of the clients contributing to the scheme. Double-height windows are prominent, specifically designed to prioritize views of the mountain range. The layout, comprising three pavilions linked by covered patios, facilitates a fluid experience between indoor and outdoor spaces. Bedrooms are oriented to face the mountain views, enhancing the residents' connection to the landscape. The exposure of raw materials internally defines a natural and authentic atmosphere within the home. Overall, MA House exemplifies an architectural approach that prioritizes structural integrity, material authenticity, and an immersive relationship with its natural setting. The design by Cadaval & Solà-Morales successfully navigates the complexities of integrating a modern structure into a sensitive landscape, utilizing local resources and thoughtful planning to create a residence that is both visually striking and functionally robust. #MexicanArchitecture #VolcanicStone #CadavalSolaMorales #SustainableDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #ConcreteArchitecture #Tepoztlan #LandscapeIntegration #HolidayHome

The Desert Wash home, a 6,700-square-foot modern residence in Paradise Valley, Arizona, was designed by architect Brent Kendle of Kendle Design Collaborative for clients Keith and Becky. The initial challenge for the design was a desert wash that bisected the building site, which the owners initially viewed as a hindrance. However, Kendle embraced this natural feature, transforming it into a central element of the home’s design and ethos. The architect's vision was to create a contemporary residence with minimal site impact, integrating the structure harmoniously into its desert surroundings. The home's design is divided into three distinct parts. The southern section houses the entrance, a guest suite, and an office. This compact volume is connected to the main body of the house, situated to the north, by an enclosed bridge. This bridge is elevated above the desert wash, allowing periodic floodwaters and local wildlife to pass underneath undisturbed. This innovative structural solution not only preserves the natural flow of the wash but also provides unique views and experiences from within the home, making the natural landscape an intrinsic part of daily life. To ensure the house blended seamlessly with its environment, Brent Kendle utilized a material palette and design elements that echoed the desert landscape. Rammed earth walls, constructed from soil excavated directly from the site, are a prominent feature, providing a direct physical connection to the land. This choice of material contributes to the home's eco-friendly credentials and offers natural insulation properties. A neutral color palette further enhances the integration, making the structure feel as if it has emerged organically from the desert. Expansive glazing, including Fleetwood sliding pocket-doors, is used throughout the residence to blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living. This allows for continuous visual and physical access to the surrounding desert, fostering a deep connection with nature. Outdoor living rooms are strategically integrated into the design, extending the habitable space and providing shaded areas for relaxation and enjoyment of the natural surroundings. Douglas Fir soffits and integral color-synthetic stucco for exterior walls complement the rammed earth, creating a cohesive and visually appealing facade. From various points within the home, such as the open great room and the master suite, sweeping views of the desert wash and the broader landscape are framed. The master bedroom features a corner window specifically designed to capture these views, while a freestanding soaking tub in the master bath is strategically placed beneath another shaded corner window. The interior also features Verano-brushed 12x24 limestone flooring in the great room, which benefits from ample natural light. The kitchen boasts a three-inch Calcutta Prima slab on the range wall and backsplash, adding a touch of elegance to the natural material scheme. Keith, one of the homeowners, noted that the wash, rather than being an obstacle, has become a "freeway" for local wildlife and an endless source of entertainment and educational opportunities for their two young children. The design emphasizes site-sensitivity, respecting the natural topography by nestling into the earth while spanning over the ancient wash, thereby minimizing disruption and maximizing the symbiotic relationship between the built environment and the natural desert ecosystem. #EcoFriendlyHome #RammedEarthWalls #DesertArchitecture #SustainableDesign #ModernResidence #SiteSensitiveDesign #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ArizonaHomes #KendleDesignCollaborative

The Rammed Earth House, a finalist for the Terra Award 2016, represents a sustainable architectural endeavor in Ayerbe, Spain, designed by Edra Arquitectura km0. The project aims to rekindle community interest in sustainable building practices that are deeply integrated with the local environment, drawing inspiration from traditional Aragonese earthen structures. Its design incorporates vernacular architecture principles concerning orientation, morphology, and the use of locally sourced materials. Technical advancements were integrated into the traditional rammed earth construction method. For instance, straw was added to the earth mixture to enhance its thermal performance. The architects prioritized low-tech, low-energy, and low-impact materials and building systems. Approximately 80% of the building's mass, including earth, stone, and straw, is derived from local sources. A life cycle analysis conducted from 'cradle to gate' indicated a 50% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to conventional construction. This approach underscores a commitment to environmental responsibility throughout the construction process. The upper floors of the house feature 45cm thick earthen walls, with timber decks supporting the living spaces. The interior and exterior lime plaster utilized the local "calicostrado" technique. A standardized wooden formwork system was employed, which was continuously mounted and filled, streamlining the construction process. Mechanization was introduced to improve both execution efficiency and economic viability. Interior partitions are finished with local clay plasters, and the floors comprise unidirectional swan timber with pine wooden planks for beam fillings. Thermal insulation is a key feature of the house. The roof is insulated with 20cm of sheep's wool to mitigate heat loss in winter and prevent overheating in summer. Inner wooden floors are insulated with natural cork boards. South-facing windows are equipped with heavy interior curtains and exterior wooden roller shutters to manage solar gain and provide shade. For water management, a cistern buried in the patio collects and reuses rainwater. Heating and domestic hot water are provided by a biomass boiler. This modern earth house exemplifies how efficient vernacular architecture principles can be combined with contemporary techniques to foster a reconnection between humans and nature, contributing to a more sustainable architectural future. #RammedEarth #SustainableArchitecture #VernacularDesign #TerraAward #EcoFriendlyBuilding #LocalMaterials #ThermalInsulation #BiomassHeating

Rammed-earth construction, a technique thousands of years old with origins in China and the Iberian Peninsula, offers numerous benefits for contemporary home building. Examples such as the original rammed-earth sections of the Great Wall and the Alhambra palace in Spain demonstrate its historical durability. This method is favored by Terrell Wong, principal of Stone’s Throw Design, due to its low embodied energy, recyclability, high thermal mass, low energy loads, and non-toxicity. Wong highlights its longevity, stating that a rammed-earth house can last 500 years or more, requiring no painting. These walls function as the structure, insulation, finish, and thermal mass of a building. The construction process involves creating panels approximately 11.5 feet long from a mixture of 20% to 30% clay and sand, with 5% to 10% cement. In colder, wetter climates, a silicate-based waterproofing agent is often incorporated. Walls are built in layers, or lifts, where one foot of material is placed into formwork and compressed to six inches using a pneumatic tamper. The forms, typically made of HDO plywood and lumber, are about 20 inches wide and 4 feet tall. When constructing walls longer than a single panel, a recess on one end of the first panel allows the subsequent panel to interlock, ensuring structural integrity. Conduit for plumbing and electrical wiring must be planned precisely, as these cannot be altered once the wall is erected. Rammed-earth walls are typically dry and load-bearing within 24 hours, exhibiting compressive strength comparable to concrete, usually between 1600 psi and 1800 psi for 2-foot-thick walls. Rammed earth is particularly effective as a thermal mass, absorbing and storing solar radiation during the day and re-radiating it at night. This property helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures and humidity levels, reducing reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems. Many modern rammed-earth homes are hybrids, combining rammed earth with other construction methods like stick or timber-frame walls, or even straw-bale construction for upper floors. Cross-laminated timber (CLT) panels can also be used for roofs. Wong frequently integrates rammed earth for interior partition walls as well. A case study highlights a single-family home designed by Wong in a rural, woodland setting. This home incorporates Passive House strategies, maximizing the thermal mass of rammed earth, harnessing southern light, and utilizing cross breezes for passive ventilation. The effective natural cooling eliminates the need for mechanical air conditioning, and the house consumes only about 20 kW of heat annually. The exterior walls, composed of 530 tons of material with two 6-inch wythes of rammed earth sandwiching 6 inches of insulation, benefit from locally sourced materials, resulting in exceptionally low embodied energy. Recycled wooden formwork was also repurposed for interior use. Beyond energy efficiency, rammed-earth walls offer soundproofing qualities due to their thickness. The absence of organic matter in the material prevents mold growth, contributing to superior indoor air quality. Sylvia Cook, principal of Aerecura Rammed Earth Builders, emphasizes that the thermal mass benefits are equally significant in both hot and cold climates, stabilizing internal temperatures. The technique remains a fringe method in many regions, including Canada, primarily due to a lack of awareness and specific building codes in North America. While other countries like Australia and New Zealand have formalized codes, in Canada, practitioners demonstrate compliance by showing rammed earth's similarity to concrete or concrete block, often incorporating rebar in colder, wetter climates and recycled polyiso insulation to minimize thermal bridging. The aesthetic appeal of rammed-earth walls is characterized by earth-toned striations, created by adding pigment to the cement and allowing the ramming process to push colors to the visible outermost layer. The amount of material in each layer can be varied to enhance these natural color patterns. While complex designs with curved or angled walls can increase costs due to the labor-intensive nature of the method, Wong has successfully applied rammed earth to affordable housing projects by simplifying the design and formwork. Test cylinders filled with rammed earth are used to measure psi before and during construction to ensure engineering code compliance. #RammedEarthConstruction #SustainableBuilding #GreenBuilding #ThermalMass #EnergyEfficiency #DurableHomes #EcoFriendlyMaterials #ArchitecturalDesign #PassiveHouse

Formafatal, a design studio based in the Czech Republic and Costa Rica, has designed and constructed two identical villas named Achioté on a steep jungled hillside in Playa Hermosa, Costa Rica. These 95-square-meter villas are located 300 meters above sea level and offer expansive views of the Pacific Ocean through frameless glass walls. The project represents the first known implementation of rammed earth construction in Costa Rica. Dagmar Štěpánová, founder of Formafatal, spearheaded the project, serving as the architect, project manager, construction manager, and a co-investor. Her vision was to create sustainable homes with biophilic interiors, where the sharp lines of the architecture would contrast with the lush tropical vegetation, yet the chosen materials and colors would blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. Each villa's rectangular plan incorporates only three solid exterior walls, meticulously built using rammed clay excavated directly from the construction site. Due to Costa Rica's lack of experience with this specific building technique, Brazilian specialist Terra Compacta was brought in to ensure the quality and integrity of the rammed earth construction. These load-bearing rammed earth walls, combined with structural H-columns, support a monolithic concrete ceiling slab, which is further defined by raw steel channels along the exterior roofline. The remaining sections of the villas are enclosed by floor-to-ceiling, frameless glass panels that can retract into ceiling grooves, effectively extending the interior living spaces towards the Pacific Ocean. The layout of each villa is straightforward, featuring a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen. These functional areas are enveloped by an open-air terrace, which acts as the primary living space and includes an infinity pool. While the structural form, construction methods, and orientation of the two villas are identical, their interior color schemes differentiate them, reflecting the architect's perception of the site's energies prior to construction. The first villa, Jaspis, embodies yin energy, connecting with the ocean and sky through warm sand-colored hues. In contrast, Nefrit, located 12 meters away, represents yang energy, grounding itself with the earth and jungle through a palette of terracotta and charcoal shades, reminiscent of local soil. The concrete floors in both villas feature distinct non-slip cement screed patterns. Interior fittings merge functionality with aesthetic contrast. The only interior door is a thin sliding fibre-cement panel in the bathroom, while delicate mosquito nets and linen curtains are discreetly installed in ceiling tracks, draping around the beds. Conversely, the bathroom and kitchen counters are integrated into a concrete monolith, and weighty concrete elements like bedside tables and benches draw inspiration from Belgian design principles. Other furnishings, light fixtures, accessories, and art pieces were carefully curated from various international designers, emphasizing originality. This project follows Formafatal's previous collaboration with Refuel Works in 2020 on the nearby Art Villa concrete rental home, which played a pivotal role in Dagmar Štěpánová's relocation to Costa Rica and the expansion of her studio's operations in the region. The project emphasizes sustainable building practices, a strong connection to the natural environment, and a thoughtful integration of interior and exterior design elements. #RammedEarthArchitecture #SustainableDesign #BiophilicInteriors #CostaRicaVillas #ModernArchitecture #InfinityPools #Formafatal #ResidentialDesign #MinimalistArchitecture

Vão House, designed by FB+MP Architects in Barbalha, Ceará, Brazil, addresses the challenge of strategic spatial integration on a confined plot. The name 'Vão,' meaning 'gap' or 'void,' reflects the architectural concept of creating open spaces and seamless connections within a compact footprint. The design is characterized by a purist volumetric approach, where blocks and structure maintain a precise relationship. This aesthetic is defined by the use of exposed materials, primarily red bricks and concrete blocks, complemented by the gray tones of beams and pillars, contributing to a sense of substantiality and durability. The architectural language deliberately navigates between the objective lines of brutalism and industrialism, offering a robust and unadorned appearance. The ground floor of Vão House is designed as an expansive open area dedicated to social functions, fostering a sense of spaciousness and connectivity. This main social zone is augmented by three enclosed annex blocks, which serve specific utilitarian purposes: a garage, an office, and a service area. A key design principle is the seamless integration of internal spaces with the exterior greenery. Despite this emphasis on connection to nature, the architects prioritized visual privacy. This was achieved through the careful design of closed facades that face the exterior, strategically incorporating openings that allow for essential ventilation and natural light without compromising seclusion. This approach creates a harmonious balance between openness and privacy, ensuring a comfortable living environment. In contrast to the communal ground floor, the private sector of Vão House is located exclusively on the upper floor. This level is dedicated entirely to residential accommodations, comprising three suites. This clear separation of public and private functions within the vertical layout optimizes both social interaction and personal retreat. The layout ensures that inhabitants can enjoy communal activities on the ground floor while having private, secluded spaces upstairs. The materials chosen, including the distinctive red bricks and concrete blocks, are integral to the house's overall industrial style, giving it a modern yet grounded character. The design’s purist aesthetic is consistently applied, highlighting the concise relationship between the various architectural blocks and the underlying structural elements. This commitment to clarity in form and material expression results in a home that is both functional and aesthetically strong. The strategic placement of openings in the seemingly closed external walls is a testament to the thoughtful consideration of light and airflow, enhancing the interior comfort and reducing reliance on artificial systems. The Vão House stands as an example of how thoughtful architectural design can create a spacious, private, and aesthetically coherent living environment even on a constrained site, blending brutalist and industrial influences with practical residential needs. The careful balance between exposed materials, spatial arrangement, and attention to environmental factors defines this unique Brazilian residence. #VaoHouse #FBMPArchitects #BrazilianArchitecture #BrickArchitecture #ConcreteArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #Brutalism #IndustrialStyle #SpatialIntegration

The Itamambuca Residence, a 4,844-square-foot concrete home in Brazil designed by São Paulo studio Arquitetura Gui Mattos, offers a unique indoor-outdoor living experience amidst a verdant rainforest near a beach. The home's orthogonal structure is set on a concrete slab slightly raised off the ground, a design choice that serves multiple functional and aesthetic purposes. This elevated foundation functions as a step leading to the main living areas on the lower level and enhances the residents' views of the surrounding trees and plants. Throughout the lower level, glazed, sliding walls can be fully opened, blurring the lines between the interior and the natural environment. These walls are strategically placed a short distance from the edge of the raised concrete floor, creating sheltered terrace decks. These outdoor spaces provide a perfect setting for the owners to relax, enjoy the garden views, or overlook the adjacent pool, fostering a deep connection with nature. Above the main living area, the roof structure is another concrete slab, but ingeniously designed as an inverted prism. Its tip points downwards from the center of the ceiling, causing the central point to slant towards the four corners. This architectural feature creates a sense of openness within the interiors and offers unobstructed sight lines towards the dense jungle surrounding the property. The roof is supported by eight robust concrete columns, which are angled towards the center of the prism. This angling not only provides structural stability but also maximizes the views from inside the home. Beneath this roof, the lower level houses an open-plan living lounge, dining area, and kitchen, all designed to embrace the expansive natural setting. A wooden box structure spans the width of the roof, housing the private quarters. This upper level accommodates the master bedroom, three additional smaller bedrooms, and two bathrooms. Access to this rooftop structure is provided by a staircase situated between two wooden volumes on the lower level. The front of this elevated box features fully glazed walls that open onto a deck, offering spectacular panoramic views of the lush, green jungle, further integrating the home with its natural surroundings. #ConcreteHomes #BrazilianArchitecture #IndoorOutdoorLiving #RainforestHome #ModernDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #NatureIntegration #UniqueRoofStructure

This article explores the aesthetic and functional versatility of concrete in modern home design, showcasing eleven distinct residential projects from the archives of *Belle* magazine. Concrete, often perceived as a cold, utilitarian material, is presented here as a sophisticated element that can provide an industrial-chic foundation for diverse interior styles and create a sense of timelessness. The featured homes illustrate various applications of concrete. One example highlights a curvaceous concrete facade designed by Samantha McKenzie and executed by Leeton Pointon architects + interiors, emphasizing a sturdy and sensorial architectural approach. Another project, a beach house conceived by Brett Mickan, incorporates oak and polished concrete stairs, with the concrete tinted a taupe shade to harmonize with the surrounding sandstone cliffs. Fiona Lynch's design for a Williamstown home utilizes poured concrete floors with darker 'pebbles,' creating an unexpected texture and character, in combination with solid oak and stone for longevity. Further examples demonstrate concrete's ability to foster warmth and a zen-like atmosphere when paired with materials like American oak, as seen in a home by Ray Demkiw of Schulberg Demkiw Architects. SLAB Architecture’s space-saving home integrates raw concrete and steel with natural finishes, blurring the lines between exterior and interior materials. A penthouse apartment designed by Adam Haddow and BKH features concrete walls and ceilings complemented by American oak flooring, while Pamela Makin's coastal home employs concrete floors and walls in the bathroom to achieve an industrial-chic aesthetic. Matt Gibson's modernist house combines concrete, stone, timber, and steel to form a robust industrial palette. Architects Kerry Phelan and Stephen Javens transformed a military building’s garage into a home, where concrete plays a subtle role, with a hidden courtyard at the entrance. Neil Cownie’s concrete house utilizes matt cement and ribbed timbers to establish a specific mood. Finally, a home by Luigi Rosselli Architects and Alwill incorporates an elliptical concrete staircase, connecting its three levels and basement garage. Across all these examples, the consistent theme is concrete’s capacity to be both a dominant architectural feature and a harmonious backdrop, proving its adaptability and enduring appeal in contemporary residential architecture. #ConcreteHomes #ModernArchitecture #IndustrialChic #InteriorDesign #HomeTours #ArchitecturalDesign #Materiality #ContemporaryHomes #AustralianDesign #RenovationIdeas

The article explores the innovative technique of fabric-casting concrete, a method gaining renewed interest among designers and architects for its potential to create dramatic, sculptural forms. This process involves pouring cement into a textile mould, which is typically supported by a wooden frame, allowing for unique shapes and textures that traditional formwork cannot easily achieve. The technique has historical roots with pioneers like the University of Manitoba's Centre for Architectural Structures and Technology (CAST) and 20th-century Swiss engineer Heinz Isler, who utilized it for thin concrete building shells. Modern applications, however, are pushing the boundaries, with experimentation extending to sculptural furniture and novel architectural components, even incorporating robotics. One significant advantage of fabric casting, according to engineering and architecture firm Atkins, is its efficiency, potentially reducing concrete usage by up to 40% and requiring less labor. Joseph Sarafian, a designer working on robotic casting methods, emphasizes the scalability of this technique for future construction, envisioning its use for unique building facade elements and even primary structural components. This innovation addresses the growing demand for variation in parametric design, which often faces limitations with conventional construction methods. Several compelling examples demonstrate the versatility and potential of fabric-cast concrete. Ron Culver and Joseph Sarafian's "Fabric Forms" project, conducted at the University of California, integrates robotics into the casting process. They pour a concrete and fiberglass mixture into Lycra sleeves manipulated by six-axis robots, eliminating the need for repeatedly building and dismantling plywood frameworks. This robotic approach significantly streamlines the process and allows for greater design flexibility. The "Augmented Skin" project by Bartlett School of Architecture graduates showcases another inventive application. This technique involves using sticks wrapped in stretchy fabric to create intricate building components. Concrete is poured around these stick-reinforced fabric moulds, forming solid, interconnected structures without external support frameworks. The sticks remain embedded, providing additional reinforcement. While currently applied to smaller prototypes like chairs, the project envisions larger architectural structures such as pavilions and bridges. Japanese studio Schemata Architecture Office employed fabric casting to create a chunky, uniquely textured counter for a Papabubble sweet shop in Tokyo. Unlike the intricate web-like forms often associated with fabric casting, this project used a fabric bag to produce a more robust, yet still organically shaped, concrete element, highlighting the material's adaptability to various aesthetic goals. Similarly, Janwillem Van Maele's "Mass IIII" side table demonstrates the creation of furniture by suspending a fabric net, filling it with cement and gravel, and allowing it to harden, resulting in a distinct, sculptural piece. Further exploration of the technique includes "FattyShell (v.01)" by University of Michigan students, who used stitched rubber sheets tensioned with cables to control the concrete's form, resulting in complex, multi-layered structures. Finally, Florian Schmid's "Stitching Concrete" presents an alternative approach by using concrete-impregnated fabric (Concrete Canvas). This material, consisting of cement layered between fabric and PVC, can be manipulated after soaking and then hardened, offering a different aesthetic and application for items like stools. These examples collectively illustrate the ongoing evolution and potential of fabric-cast concrete as a transformative material in architecture and design. #FabricCastConcrete #ArchitecturalInnovation #ConcreteDesign #RoboticConstruction #SustainableBuilding #ParametricDesign #MaterialExperimentation

This article explores the enduring relevance and innovative applications of brick as a construction material in contemporary architecture. It begins by tracing the historical use of brick, from its ancient origins as sun-dried mud bricks over 6,000 years ago, including its presence in structures like the Great Wall of China, to its historical prominence in European home construction. The article highlights how brick, initially conceived as a unit manageable by a single person, has evolved into an extensive range of sizes and shapes, such as bullnose, channel, coping, cownose, and hollow bricks, each serving specific functions. Beyond traditional burnt clay, modern bricks are also made from materials like sand lime, concrete, fly ash clay, and even glass. A significant turning point in the innovative use of brick is attributed to Uruguayan engineer and architect Eladio Dieste. Unlike many modernist contemporaries who favored concrete, Dieste pioneered sophisticated structural solutions using brick and ceramic tile, exemplified by his Atlantida Church. This structure ingeniously incorporated his inventions: the Gaussian vault and the vertical ruled surface, demonstrating that elegant and strong buildings could be constructed more economically than with reinforced concrete. The article argues that despite the rising popularity of timber, brick maintains its status as a versatile and preferred material due to its design flexibility and numerous benefits. Contemporary architects now have a wide array of aesthetic options with brick, including diverse colors, textures, patterns, perforations, curvatures, and finishes. Beyond aesthetics, brick offers exceptional longevity, strength, durability, and resistance to extreme weather conditions. Its thermal mass properties are also noted, as bricks can absorb and gradually release heat, contributing to the regulation of interior temperatures within buildings. The article addresses common criticisms regarding brick's sustainability, specifically the energy-intensive firing process and associated carbon footprint. It counters this by emphasizing the broader definition of sustainability, which encompasses a material's life cycle performance, maintenance, durability, and recyclability. Research from the UK Brick Development Association is cited, indicating that the embodied energy of clay bricks in a modern semi-detached home constitutes a mere 1.87% of the total heating requirement over its 150-year lifespan. Furthermore, brick is highlighted for its reusability and recyclability in new projects or other building materials. Several projects are showcased to illustrate brick's modern applications. For instance, Glamuzina Paterson Architects utilized 'seconds bricks' in their Lake Hawea Courtyard House to create a textured façade that harmonizes with the natural landscape. Aaron Paterson, one of the architects, commented on the initial skepticism from local bricklayers regarding the non-traditional random laying pattern but acknowledged the stunning visual effect achieved. Other examples include Gehry Partners' Dr Chau Chak Wing Building with its fluid brick veneer, Tompkins Rygole's Woodridge House referencing local heritage with Flemish-bonded handmade bricks, and Ola Studio's Ari Apartments using black perforated bricks for privacy and light. Further innovative uses include AOC's Green community center with a herringbone pattern, Monadnock's Abstract Tower featuring contrasting brick tones, Estudio Botteri-Connell's experimental pavilion with movable brick panels, and Onion's Sala Ayutthaya hotel with scalloped brick walls. Ross Langdon + Studio FH Architects' Health Education Centre uses perforated brickwork for light, Dallas Pierce Quintero's Courtyard House showcases dark, vertically striped bricks, Andra Matin's Katamama hotel features multi-hued Balinese bricks, MVRDV's Crystal Houses Amsterdam integrates transparent glass bricks, H.A.'s Zen House uses unrefined brick for a peaceful sanctuary, O’Donnell + Tuomey Architects' LSE Saw Hock Student Centre employs a permeable brick lattice, and MAKE Architecture's Little Brick Studio draws inspiration from nearby brick factories with a unique bond. These examples collectively demonstrate how this ancient material continues to inspire architects to push creative boundaries while offering practical advantages. #ArchitecturalDesign #BrickConstruction #SustainableMaterials #BuildingInnovation #MaterialVersatility #ContemporaryArchitecture #HistoricalMaterials #ThermalPerformance

K-Studio has designed Southwand House, a holiday home located in the Navarino Dunes resort area of Costa Navarino, Messinia, Greece. This architectural project integrates vertical stone walls with horizontal concrete planes, creating a dwelling that blends modernist aesthetics with traditional regional influences. The stone, sourced from local quarries, is prominently featured both on the exterior and interior, providing a textured contrast to the smooth concrete roof slabs. The design of Southwand House draws inspiration from the stone "tower houses" prevalent in the Messinia region, known for their monumental stone structures. The architects sought to create an interplay between these rough-hewn vertical elements and the sleek horizontal concrete, fostering a sense of seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. This combination blurs boundaries and allows for a feeling of outdoor lightness within the interior, while offering a sense of protection when outdoors. The house occupies a linear plot with significant natural surroundings, including a sea view to the southwest, an olive grove to the north, and a golf course to the southeast. At the core of the design is a central courtyard featuring an established olive tree, which serves to divide the floor plan into two distinct halves. The east side of the house accommodates communal living areas, while four bedrooms are situated on the west side and the first floor. K-Studio’s design philosophy for Southwand House emphasizes a fluid living experience, enabling various daily activities such as cooking, showering, lounging, and exercising to occur in both indoor and outdoor settings. The studio aimed to reflect the organic complexity of Messinian folk architecture, which often features irregularly-shaped stone volumes, courtyards, and passages. To achieve this, they developed a system of orthogonal modules that, when juxtaposed, generate intricate relationships through negative spaces, courtyards, and pathways. The southern end of the building is designed to open up, with the living and dining rooms, as well as an adjacent bedroom, leading out to terraces. A swimming pool extends from these outdoor spaces, wrapping around them and offering views towards the sea. The pool's stepped base provides varying depths, catering to diverse preferences. Southwand House is part of a series of projects by K-Studio, founded by brothers Dimitris and Konstantinos Karampatakis, in scenic Greek locations. Previous works include Villa Mandra in Mykonos, the Manna hotel in Arcadia, and the Liknon visitor centre in Samos. The name "Southwand" is derived from the practice of seeking warmth by resting against a south-facing wall on a sunny day, symbolizing a comfortable and active model of living that harmonizes with its natural environment and promotes social interaction. #HolidayHomes #GreekArchitecture #StoneConstruction #ConcreteDesign #KStudio #Messinia #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ArchitecturalDesign #CoastalLiving