Mirador House by Cristobal Noguera & Abarca + Palma

Mirador House, designed by Cristobal Noguera & Abarca + Palma, is a striking contemporary residence located in the scenic commune of Frutillar, X Region, Chile. Positioned between rolling livestock hills and tree lines, the home faces the majestic Lake Llanquihue, offering unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape and volcanoes. This single-family residence emphasizes spatial efficiency, energy performance, and economic design strategies, achieving a harmonious balance between form, function, and context.

Architectural Concept

The house is a compact 140 m² volume with an almost square floor plan designed without internal circulation corridors. The rooms revolve around a central space that integrates the living area, kitchen, and main living room, creating a continuous flow that extends outdoors. Large panoramic windows connect the interior to the lake and mountain views, allowing natural light to permeate the living spaces.

To maximize solar gain, the main facade and bedrooms are oriented north. A continuous band of windows captures sunlight during winter, enhancing energy efficiency while creating bright and inviting interiors.

Design & Materials

The structure utilizes a mixed prefabricated system, combining SIP (Structural Insulated Panels) for thermal performance with wooden beams, pillars, and window frames. Foundations consist of isolated elements supporting the wooden beam structure, topped with SIP slabs. Interior surfaces feature a clean white palette for walls and ceilings, contrasting elegantly with exposed wood elements in windows, skylights, and structural beams.

The exterior is clad in micro-corrugated white zinc, mounted with a ventilated system for durability and material continuity. Exposed wood behind the glazed facades establishes a strong visual connection between the house and the surrounding landscape. The rear facade features a striking "chiflonera" volume of glass and wood, connecting the interior to a deck and garden.

Spatial Experience

Mirador House emphasizes a seamless indoor-outdoor experience, allowing residents to enjoy panoramic views of Lake Llanquihue and the nearby volcanoes. The central living area acts as the heart of the house, while private rooms are carefully arranged to ensure privacy, comfort, and natural light. Every architectural decision, from window placement to material selection, prioritizes sustainability, energy efficiency, and visual harmony.

All Photographs are works of Andrés Maturana