Pirca House by En Obra Arquitectos: A Masterpiece in Coastal Architecture

Pirca House, designed by En Obra Arquitectos, is a stunning architectural marvel located in the "Costa Esmeralda" neighborhood near the coastal city of Pinamar, Buenos Aires, Argentina. Completed in 2023, this 1000 m² residence is a testament to innovative design and functionality, seamlessly integrating with its unique topography and coastal environment.

Location and Context

The "Costa Esmeralda" neighborhood is a burgeoning residential area characterized by its lush forests and coastal dunes. Bordered by the Argentine Sea to the east and National Route No. 11 to the west, the area is prime real estate for both small and large-scale residential projects. Pirca House sits on a rectangular lot with a significant longitudinal slope, a feature that the architects leveraged to create a distinctive and functional design.

Design Concept

The term "Pirca" refers to traditional Andean walls used for containing embankments and delineating spaces. This concept is central to the design of Pirca House. The architects designed a continuous wall that not only defines the terrain but also serves multiple functions. This wall creates an entrance, provides a garage space, contains the slope, supports the house, offers storage, and delineates the pool area.

Architectural Features

Terrain and Layout

Pirca House is designed to maximize the unique qualities of its lot and its orientation. The house features a pure concrete volume, closed on the south side for privacy and open on the north side to capture natural light and views. This design approach enhances the living experience, making the most of the coastal environment.

Materiality and Construction

The house employs materials that require minimal maintenance, a crucial consideration for coastal residences. The construction process emphasizes the purity of materials, using exposed concrete and local stone. The black anodized aluminum carpentry adds a sleek, modern touch, providing both shine and transparency. The integrally designed furniture, made of white lacquered MDF boards, contributes to the house's overall aesthetic of synthesis and neutrality.

Functional Design

The wall running through Pirca House is a multifunctional element. It not only supports the structure but also integrates various functions seamlessly. The wall helps create a garage, storage space, and pool boundaries while supporting the house on the sloped lot. This innovative use of a single structural element highlights the architects' ingenuity and attention to detail.

Photographic Highlights

Exterior

The exterior of Pirca House is characterized by its robust concrete volume and strategic use of local stone. The house blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings, with the forest and dunes providing a picturesque backdrop.

Interior

The interior spaces are designed with a focus on functionality and aesthetic simplicity. The use of exposed concrete beams and white lacquered MDF boards creates a clean, modern look that is both practical and visually appealing.

Unique Features

The house's design takes full advantage of its coastal location. Large windows and open spaces ensure plenty of natural light and ventilation, enhancing the living experience. The integration of the wall into the house's design is a standout feature, showcasing the architects' ability to combine form and function creatively.

Pirca House by En Obra Arquitectos is a remarkable example of modern coastal architecture. Its innovative use of terrain, materials, and multifunctional design elements sets it apart as a pioneering residential project. This house not only meets the practical needs of its residents but also provides a serene and aesthetically pleasing living environment.

All the photographs are work of Mariano Imperial