LABT-20 Modular Home by Estudio Borrachia Arquitectos + GB Arquitectos

A Compact and Sustainable Modular Housing Solution in Argentina

The LABT-20 Modular Home, designed by Estudio Borrachia Arquitectos in collaboration with GB Arquitectos (Guillermo Badano), is an innovative housing prototype located in City Bell, Buenos Aires, Argentina. Completed in 2022, this 31 m² modular residence demonstrates how small-scale architecture can balance comfort, adaptability, and sustainability while maintaining a minimal footprint on the natural environment.

Modular Design and Flexibility

The LABT-20 modules are based on a prefabricated production system that allows for easy customization and relocation. They can be adapted to diverse climates and user needs simply by adjusting their size or adding specific features. Unlike conventional "glamping" models, these units go beyond temporary shelter—offering solutions that range from tiny homes and weekend retreats to eco-tourism complexes and permanent residences.

Each module is designed to integrate seamlessly into its surroundings—whether on a mountain slope, forest edge, riverbank, or lakeside landscape—achieving harmony between architecture, nature, and human inhabitation.

Minimal Environmental Impact

One of the strongest design principles of LABT-20 is respect for the landscape. The modules sit on bases that can be installed or removed within hours, minimizing ground intervention and making the structure almost ephemeral. Additionally, lifting hooks allow for effortless relocation, reinforcing the concept of a nomadic and reversible habitat.

Complementary elements like decks, ramps, and walkways limit human impact on the site while promoting new ways of engaging with the surrounding ecosystem. The incorporation of a green roof terrace further enhances biodiversity while providing usable outdoor space.

Circular Economy and Local Impact

The project embraces circular economy strategies by prioritizing prefabrication, local materials, and community engagement. Workshops close to installation sites are established to source regional labor and resources, stimulating local economies while reducing transportation costs and environmental impact.

The use of wood, SIP panels, and lightweight self-supporting construction systems ensures thermal efficiency and durability. Passive design strategies such as cross-ventilation, chimney effect cooling, solar orientation, and insulated enclosures optimize comfort year-round.

Energy Efficiency and Off-Grid Living

The LABT-20 modules integrate renewable energy systems including:

• Photovoltaic solar panels
• Geothermal heating and cooling
• Solar water heaters
• Low-consumption appliances

These features allow the home to operate off-grid, ensuring resilience in remote or extreme environments.

Spatial Organization and Living Experience

The 10.5-meter-long LABT-20 unit installed in City Bell serves as a permanent residence for one or two people, complementing an existing family house on the same plot. Its layout includes:

• A living and dining area with transformable furniture that can convert into extra sleeping spaces.
• A compact kitchen and bathroom forming the "wet core" of the module.
• A private bedroom separated by sliding panels for flexibility.
• An accessible green roof terrace functioning as a viewpoint and extended living area.
• An outdoor deck and ramp, connecting indoor and outdoor spaces while floating above the ground to preserve the landscape.

A Contemporary Model for Sustainable Living

The LABT-20 Modular Home represents a forward-looking model of sustainable, adaptable, and ecological housing. Its compact scale, thoughtful design, and integration of renewable technologies demonstrate how architecture can respond to climate challenges, ecological preservation, and new lifestyle needs.

All Photographs are works of Luis Barandiaran