CR House: A Stunning Elevated Coastal Home with Panoramic Ocean Views

A Harmonious Blend of Architecture and Nature

Perched on the rugged coastline of Punta Hueso, Coquimbo, Chile, CR House by LOTE Arquitectura and Ignacio Ferreira is a striking example of contemporary elevated coastal home design. This unique architectural project seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings while offering unobstructed 360-degree ocean views. Designed with a commitment to preserving the local ecosystem, the house is elevated on a modular grid, ensuring minimal disruption to the rocky landscape and low-lying coastal vegetation.

A Grid-Based Architectural Concept

The structural concept of CR House is rooted in a grid-based approach, dividing the residence into nine quadrants. Eight of these quadrants form the peripheral wooden structure, while the central quadrant, constructed from reinforced concrete, acts as the core structural and functional element of the home. This circular concrete volume serves as both the main support system and the access point, featuring a sculptural spiral staircase that stands as an architectural statement in itself.

Sustainability and Coastal Adaptation

The decision to elevate the home was driven by both environmental responsibility and aesthetic enhancement. By raising the structure, the architects ensured that the coastal flora beneath remained untouched, maintaining the integrity of the delicate ecosystem. Additionally, this elevation allows for expansive ocean views from every part of the home, reinforcing its connection with the surrounding landscape.

The primary load-bearing structure consists of laminated wooden beams, which are supported by the central concrete core. A network of secondary beams and purlins completes the framework, creating a lightweight yet robust construction that withstands the harsh coastal conditions.

Spatial Organization and Indoor-Outdoor Connection

Accessing CR House is an architectural journey in itself. Visitors are led through the sculptural spiral staircase, arriving at a compact entry hall that acts as a transition between public and private spaces. The social areas—living room, dining space, and kitchen—occupy three of the wooden quadrants, forming an open-plan layout designed for seamless interaction and panoramic views. On the opposite side, the private quarters, including the primary bedroom and en-suite bathroom, are carefully arranged within two additional quadrants to ensure privacy and tranquility.

Extending beyond the primary living spaces, the ocean-facing balcony spans three quadrants, providing an immersive outdoor experience. Positioned to capture the gradual sunset over the Pacific, this balcony becomes an extension of the interior, allowing residents to fully engage with the dynamic coastal environment.

A Benchmark for Elevated Coastal Home Design

CR House exemplifies the potential of elevated coastal home design to blend architectural ingenuity with environmental sensitivity. By embracing a modular grid system, sustainable elevation techniques, and a sculptural approach to access, the architects have crafted a residence that is both visually striking and harmonious with its surroundings.

This project serves as a model for future coastal architecture, demonstrating how thoughtful structural solutions can enhance both functionality and environmental preservation. CR House is more than just a home—it is an architectural experience that celebrates the raw beauty of Chile’s coastline while setting new standards for sustainable coastal living.