PH Charlone House: A Stunning Example of Modern House Renovation in Buenos Aires

Reviving Traditional Spaces with a Contemporary Vision

The PH Charlone House, designed by Florentina Fontana Arq. + Asociados, represents an inspired modern house renovation in Buenos Aires. Located in the tranquil, low-rise Chacarita neighborhood, the project stands out by redefining a compact urban lot into a bright and breathable home that fully embraces outdoor living. The house is located mid-block, where the absence of tall buildings and the abundance of gardens allow for constant visual and physical contact with nature.

Architectural Strategy Rooted in Light, Space, and Structure

The renovation involved a careful transformation of an existing structure measuring approximately 160 square meters over three levels. One of the project’s main architectural goals was to blur the boundary between interior and exterior. This was achieved through extensive glazing, open layouts, and the integration of former gallery spaces into the living area.

A key design choice was to dismantle the existing patio covering, allowing natural light and greenery to flood into the space. The structural intervention was minimal yet effective—only one gray steel column and three IPN beams replaced the original 30 cm thick load-bearing walls. These slender steel elements now support the preserved vaulted slab ceilings, which were celebrated as part of the design, showing traces of the house’s history.

Reconfiguring Spatial Hierarchy for Modern Living

In a departure from conventional layout patterns, the social and communal spaces—such as the kitchen and living room—were placed on the upper floor. This allowed for the creation of a new green terrace above the previous roof and a patio that connects visually and physically with the surroundings.

This strategic shift in spatial hierarchy repositions daily life toward the light and greenery above, granting panoramic openness without sacrificing privacy. The lower levels now host private bedrooms, where large sliding windows encourage connection to the garden while maintaining a sense of intimacy.

Material Palette and Interior Finishes

The renovation preserved and celebrated the textures of the original structure. In spaces with lower ceilings, the slabs were painted white to reflect light and enhance brightness. In areas with higher ceilings, the exposed brick was left untouched, bringing warmth and texture. The steel profiles were painted to blend subtly into the interiors, allowing the architecture to take precedence.

Glass walls and floor-to-ceiling windows replace most solid partitions, enhancing openness and visually extending each room to the plot’s edges. Native vegetation adds color against a minimalist white palette, with one dark-painted accent wall creating visual depth and anchoring the patio composition.

Everyday Luxury Through Skylight and Nature Integration

Attention to detail is evident in even the most private spaces. The bathroom includes a skylight that offers natural zenithal light and a view of the sky while showering—an elegant touch that enhances daily rituals with calm and connection to the outdoors.

The placement of the house within the heart of the block not only shields it from urban noise but also maximizes privacy, giving residents the freedom to open up the interiors. This thoughtful orientation makes the home feel like a natural extension of its environment.

A Model of Thoughtful Urban Renewal

The PH Charlone House is a masterful example of modern house renovation in Buenos Aires. It demonstrates how sensitive architectural intervention can revive existing structures by embracing simplicity, structural honesty, and natural light. This project balances tradition and innovation, creating a timeless home where each space opens to the sky and the city beyond.

All Photographs are works of Daniela Mac Adden