Pagola 3023 Apartments: Redefining Urban Residential Architecture in Montevideo

Nestled in the low-density area of Pocitos, Montevideo, the Pagola 3023 Apartments, a collaborative design effort by Pablo Szames Arquitecto and AGVA studio, emerges as a modern reinterpretation of urban residential architecture. Spanning 529 m² and captured through the lens of Marcos Guiponi, this project unveils a unique integration of living spaces within the urban fabric, offering 15 units that include 2 studio lofts and 13 one-bedroom apartments across four levels, with an additional rooftop level featuring a solarium and barbecue areas.

Dialoguing with Urban Context

The building's design is a thoughtful response to its urban context, striking a balance between the neighboring two-level house and a ten-story building. It aims to serve as a nodal point of topological integration, enhancing the streetscape with its volumetric design and permeable façade. The architects have crafted a structure that is not only a residential space but also a piece of the urban puzzle, contributing to the architectural diversity of the Pocitos neighborhood.

A Trio of Courtyards: A Spatial Narrative

Central to the design are three courtyards: an access courtyard, a central contemplative courtyard, and a private courtyard, around which the building articulates. These voids are not mere empty spaces but are thoughtfully designed to qualify and give character to both the contained and adjacent areas, fostering a sense of community and privacy within the urban setting.

Blurring the Boundaries

The Pagola 3023 Apartments are an exploration of the threshold between the public and private realms. The entrance through a garden courtyard, situated half a level below the sidewalk, extends through open covered spaces, effectively blurring the boundary between the interior and exterior. This approach not only enhances the residents' experience but also contributes to a dynamic interaction with the urban environment.

Materiality and Light

The choice of materials—exposed concrete slabs supported by black perforated metal folding panels—plays a crucial role in shaping the building's identity. These elements are designed to permeate, filter, and modulate interior light and privacy concerning the exterior, embodying the architects' vision of a living façade controlled by its users. This material strategy not only addresses functional requirements but also adds a layer of visual intrigue to the building's exterior.

A New Urban Residential Model

The Pagola 3023 Apartments stand as a testament to innovative urban residential architecture, offering a nuanced blend of privacy, community, and interaction with the urban landscape. Through its thoughtful design and strategic use of courtyards and materials, the project sets a new benchmark for residential architecture in Montevideo, reflecting a deep understanding of the city's architectural language and the needs of its residents.

All photographs are work of Marcos Guiponi