La Marina House: A Paradigm of Sustainable Architecture Design

Located in the serene landscape of Costa Esmeralda, Buenos Aires, La Marina House by Besonias Almeida Arquitectos exemplifies sustainable architecture design. This remarkable residence, completed in 2024, seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings while offering modern amenities and innovative design solutions.

Sustainable Architecture in Buenos Aires

La Marina House is situated on a unique plot elevated between 1.5m and 2m above the surrounding streets, providing privacy and unobstructed views of the lush landscape. The design capitalizes on the site's natural features, incorporating native grasslands and young reforestation efforts into the architectural concept.

Design and Material Selection

The clients, familiar with the durability and aesthetic appeal of exposed concrete, requested a home predominantly constructed from this material. Besonias Almeida Arquitectos skillfully balanced the use of concrete with minimal maintenance materials, achieving both functionality and a distinct visual appeal. The house's furnishings, including beds, shelves, and storage spaces, are also made of concrete, enhancing the cohesive design and reducing upkeep.

Layout and Functional Spaces

To address the significant elevation difference, the house is divided into two rectangular prisms on half levels, connected by gently sloping stairs. This design not only facilitates access but also enhances the spatial experience. The first prism, elevated above the access platform, houses the garage, entrance hall, storage area, and service room, providing a suspended concrete prism that marks the entrance.

The second prism, designed for social activities, rests on the natural terrain and features generous openings that connect the interior to the outdoor spaces. This area includes ample semi-covered spaces for outdoor activities and parking, emphasizing the house's role as a social and recreational hub.

Environmental Integration and Privacy

The irregular plot's elevation offers natural privacy, eliminating the need for additional screening from public spaces or neighboring properties. The back of the lot features a young grove, ensuring good views and further enhancing privacy. Controlled openings in the elevated volume ensure that the private areas remain secluded from both the street and the house's social zones.

Innovative Design Features

The formal simplicity of La Marina House is enriched by two key design features: the rotation of the side surfaces of the prisms and the folding of the roofs. These elements align the structures with the lot's longest front, creating a dynamic perception of space. The folded roofs allow zenithal light to penetrate the interiors, offering varied spatial experiences throughout the day.

La Marina House stands as a testament to sustainable architecture design, merging innovative solutions with the natural beauty of its surroundings. Besonias Almeida Arquitectos have created a home that not only meets the practical needs of its inhabitants but also enhances their connection to the environment. This project exemplifies how thoughtful design can achieve harmony between built and natural environments.

All the photographs are work of Hernán de Almeida