House MiniDV by Viento Norte – Compact Rural Living in Puerto Varas, Chile

Located in the tranquil surroundings of Puerto Varas, Chile, House MiniDV by Viento Norte Architects is a striking example of rural residential design that combines functionality, sustainability, and modern aesthetics. Completed in 2022, this 155 m² home is designed to harmoniously integrate with its natural environment while providing a cozy, practical, and inviting living experience.

Architectural Vision and Site Integration

Led by architects Dulce Elena Sánchez and Valeria Perramont, House MiniDV was conceived to blend seamlessly with nature. The property occupies a flat 5,000 m² site, with the two-sloped roof design offering a classic solution suited to the local landscape.

The street-facing façade remains hermetic to ensure privacy and security, while the tree line and native vegetation create a natural buffer. The service sector, including a manoeuvring yard, cellar, and greenhouse, is strategically placed for functionality without compromising the visual appeal of the home.

Functional and Welcoming Interior Spaces

The interior of House MiniDV focuses on open, connected spaces that maximize natural light and foster interaction.

• Living Room: A double-height living area with a large corner window offers panoramic views of the forest and distant meadows.
• Kitchen and Dining: Integrated with the living room, this space promotes a warm, communal atmosphere.
• Playroom: Located on the second level, it projects outward, visually linking private and shared spaces.
• Private Areas: Compact yet comfortable, designed to offer intimacy, privacy, and functionality.

Materials and Structural Design

House MiniDV features a concrete base with a full wooden frame, providing stability and warmth. The white-painted pine boards brighten the interior, while graphite-stained wooden window frames elegantly frame exterior views.

Hermetic graphite zinc facades contrast with large windows and a tiled entrance, creating a balance between traditional and contemporary architectural elements. This material palette ensures both durability and aesthetic cohesion.

Harmony with Nature and Sustainability

The design emphasizes nature integration and environmentally conscious architecture. By blending the house with its forested surroundings and using sustainable materials, Viento Norte demonstrates how compact rural homes can provide modern comforts without disrupting the landscape.

Summary

House MiniDV is a compact, functional, and aesthetically pleasing rural home that immerses its inhabitants in the natural beauty of southern Chile. With a thoughtful combination of privacy, connectivity, and sustainable materials, it exemplifies Viento Norte’s approach to contemporary rural architecture.

All Photographs are works of Matias Riveros