#1_ SITE
The CJR house is located on a plot surrounded by abundant vegetation in the Vistalba area, Luján de Cuyo department, on the outskirts of Mendoza City, western Argentina. This natural setting provides a tranquil environment close to nature, ideal for establishing a harmonious connection between the architecture and its surroundings. Due to the site conditions and potential accessibility constraints, the design proposes a single-story perforated slab arranged linearly, with openings oriented towards the northeast in nearly all spaces.
#2_ PROGRAM
The program is developed on a single linear floor plan, adapting to the site conditions and accessibility requirements. Spaces are designed with openings oriented toward the main garden, enabling direct immersion in the forest environment from within the house and promoting a seamless integration between interior and exterior. Programmatically, the project features an innovative living arrangement by including two main bedrooms of identical size and spatial conditions, connected by a shared dressing room, addressing a key requirement of the household unit occupying the residence.
#3_ TECTONICS
The project morphology is defined by a prismatic volume with strategically positioned voids. These voids form multiple internal courtyards constructed in exposed reinforced concrete, guiding the user through their daily routine. The choice of reinforced concrete serves not only a structural function but also provides a distinctive, durable aesthetic element. Glass is another essential material throughout the project, accompanying the users along their path inside the residence and generating diverse internal and external views and perspectives.
#4_ COURTYARDS + VEGETATION
The prismatic form of the building, together with the internal reinforced concrete courtyards, defines the architectural strategy. These strategically located courtyards allow natural light and ventilation to penetrate the interior, while creating additional interior spaces that merge with the exterior. This design approach emphasizes the connection between the house’s interior and its natural surroundings. The site’s abundant vegetation enhances the unique experience of harmonious living with nature. The internal courtyards also offer the opportunity to incorporate vegetation within their design, further enriching the relationship between inside and outside environments.
#5_ LIGHT
The project prioritizes optimal orientation according to the site’s west-east axis for daytime living spaces such as living, dining, and kitchen areas, along with the gallery overlooking the garden. Additionally, a series of strategically placed linear skylights above the sanitary and service areas introduce natural light into the most interior zones, which are furthest from the exterior. These skylights admit direct sunlight at different times of day, enhancing daily routines by creating varying atmospheres from morning through night.