Planes House by Estudio Damero: Transforming a Historic Chorizo House into an Urban Oasis in Buenos Aires

Planes House, designed by Estudio Damero in 2023, is a stunning example of contemporary renovation that balances heritage preservation with modern spatial innovation. Located in Buenos Aires, Argentina, this 200 m² residence reinvents the classic chorizo house typology, integrating architectural identity, natural light, and lush greenery to create a serene "urban oasis." Photographed by Javier Agustín Rojas, the project highlights the seamless blend of old and new, where emotional and built heritage coexist.

Preserving Heritage and Emotional Continuity

The primary challenge in renovating Planes House was not only conserving the physical heritage of the chorizo house but also preserving the emotional connections of its owners. The original structure, with its characteristic narrow layout and high ceilings, was thoughtfully maintained. The old commercial facade was enhanced, now functioning as a welcoming access point, bridging the historical character with contemporary living requirements.

The Concept of an Urban Oasis

From the entrance, residents and visitors are introduced to the idea of an "urban oasis." A sequence of patios, each with distinct functions, creates spatial continuity between the interior and exterior. These patios act as transitional buffers, maintaining privacy while offering visual and functional connectivity throughout the home.

Access Patio: The front patio, formerly a commercial store, serves as a buffer that separates the public street from the private interior. This space preserves the stories and memories of the house, acting as a backdrop for a home office overlooking the street. Subtle glimpses of daily life are revealed, fostering a sense of community connection while ensuring privacy.

Intermediate Patio: Positioned at the heart of the house, this air-filled void allows natural sunlight to penetrate the central zones. Surrounded by lush vegetation, the kitchen enjoys a tranquil atmosphere, and the open design articulates circulation across the three levels. The intermediate patio also provides a direct pathway from the access hall to the back patio, reinforcing spatial connectivity.

Back Patio: The rear of the house is defined by a semi-covered area and a generous open-air space. Oriented north, the semi-covered section extends the living room outdoors while mitigating summer heat. The open sector features a swimming pool framed by native plants, enhancing the "urban oasis" ambiance. This outdoor space serves as both a recreational area and a cooling landscape for the home’s interiors.

Architectural Strategy and Material Innovation

The renovation respects the original chorizo house volumes, featuring a 4-meter-wide by 3.6-meter-high layout, exposed vaulted ceilings, and load-bearing walls. To accommodate upper-level expansion, a steel framing system was implemented, reducing structural loads on the ground floor.

The house’s vertical development creates a dynamic flow of air and light from the ground to upper levels. Mezzanines break the interior edges, connecting different spaces and providing visual continuity with the patios. A jet-shaped roof, reminiscent of industrial architecture, crowns the playroom and secondary bedrooms, while the master bedroom elegantly hovers over the garden, immersing residents in the calm of the urban oasis.

Experience and Spatial Harmony

Planes House achieves a perfect balance between preservation, contemporary design, and biophilic principles. The careful orchestration of patios, mezzanines, and open-air spaces ensures a continuous dialogue between interior and exterior, creating a home that is both intimate and expansive. The project demonstrates how sensitive renovations can enhance historical structures while introducing new layers of spatial richness.

All photographs are works of  Javier Agustín Rojas