Location: Santiago, Chile
Typology: Single Family Residence / New Construction
Size: 298 M2
Status: Completed
Photography: Guy Wenborne

The project entails the design of two independent private residences on a site nestled in the Pre-Andean foothills of the Andes. Located within a low-density setting, the property features a west-facing slope that commands sweeping views over the city.

The design concept splits the site into two separate platforms by means of a primary retaining wall. This wall becomes a dividing element, defining each lot and creating private outdoor areas for both residences. Each home is articulated in an “L” shape, working in tandem with the perimeter walls to form enclosed private courtyards. The placement and geometry of the houses respond directly to views, privacy requirements, the creation of outdoor living spaces connected to the interiors, and the maximization of natural light.

House B

The house comprises two stacked volumes, strategically sited to capture natural light and the surrounding views.

A two-story podium of exposed concrete walls is embedded into the earth, accommodating the garage and storage on the lower level, while the kitchen, living room, dining area, study, guest bathroom, and service suite occupy the upper level.

This podium functions as the base for a third level that shifts upward and pivots eastward to capture the spectacular mountain views and daylight in the bedrooms. A portion of this upper volume then cantilevers outward, providing shade over the lower-level terrace.

The main entrance is accessed via a side staircase that wedges between the adjacent retaining wall and the house. A semi-arid garden frames the arrival point at the entry.

Upon entry, a curved service volume defines the entry hall, separating the living–dining area from the kitchen and study. The living–dining space benefits from views of the garden and pool through its full-height glazed walls.

On the upper level, the bedrooms are organized along a fully enclosed west-facing gallery that serves as the primary circulation spine. Its northern end admits daylight and frames views of the mountain range. A lounge area and storage volume act as a buffer between the master suite and the children’s bedrooms, and open onto a generous terrace overlooking the mountains.

The building envelope comprises a double-layered board-formed exposed concrete wall with insulation between the layers at the base, and white-stuccoed autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) blocks in the upper volume to optimize thermal performance. The west-facing facades of the upper volume are shaded by a timber screen. These two primary materials are harmonized with the palette of the surrounding landscape and the snow-capped mountains.

The interior finishes feature a combination of polished concrete floors with plastered walls and wood flooring with exposed concrete walls, creating a variety of distinct atmospheres.

The exterior surfaces combine river stone paving with landscaped green areas to mitigate stormwater runoff and the urban heat island effect.