House around the Tree By otro estudio: Rafaela, Argentina

Designed by otro estudio, the House around the Tree is a 210 m² residential project completed in 2024 in Rafaela, Argentina. Photographed by Ramiro Sosa, this project emphasizes a harmonious coexistence between architecture, nature, and sensory experiences, celebrating the organic presence of mature trees on-site.

Concept and Site

The project began with a deep exploration of atmosphere and sensory experience. The client envisioned living spaces that would allow constant observation of seasonal changes and evolving domestic landscapes. While the original site housed a deteriorated structure, the mature trees, particularly a central Acacia caven, dictated the spatial organization. Their shadows, canopy fragrances, and natural presence formed the core around which the house unfolds.

Architectural Layout

The residence is composed of three interconnected sectors: social areas, private rooms, and service spaces across two floors. Circulation within the house allows wandering, visual exploration, and observation from elevated positions, reinforcing the feeling of discovery. Patios, interstices, and open-air connections create a dynamic relationship with the surrounding landscape, extending indoor life into the exterior environment.

Integration with Nature

Trees on the site, including a carob (Neltuma alba) and a ceibo (Erythrina crista-galli), are preserved and incorporated into the design. A triangular water feature occupies a central position between the canopies, emphasizing visual and spatial continuity. The house celebrates the temporal and cyclical rhythm of nature, reflecting seasonal changes and the life of the landscape. By respecting and valuing the pre-existing trees, the architecture emphasizes the dialogue between permanence and organic growth.

Materiality and Experience

Natural light, warm wood finishes, and open circulation highlight the relationship between interior and exterior spaces. Social areas are oriented to public and neighborhood streets, while private zones maintain introspection and connection to internal gardens. Each patio serves as both a functional outdoor space and a medium for interacting with nature, transforming the domestic experience into a daily sensory engagement.

House around the Tree exemplifies contemporary residential design that prioritizes ecological sensitivity, human-nature interaction, and experiential living. The project is a testament to biophilic design, sustainable architecture, and landscape integration, offering a residence that is both a home and an immersive environmental experience.

All the photographs are works of  Ramiro Sosa