2024
MCHAP.emerge
COPA
MCL Studio
Buenos Aires, Moreno, Argentina
December 2021
PRIMARY AUTHOR
Juan Micieli M.Arch (Main architect - founder), Manuel Micieli M.S. Economy (Main administrator - Co-fouder)
CONTRIBUTING AUTHOR
Ignacio Molinari Arch. (project management), Roberto Alfie Arch. (Structural Engineering), Edgardo Rojas Arch. (Conceptual design), Christian Naula Arch. (design development), Patricia Tejera Arch. (Design development
CLIENT
Fideicomiso Condominio Patio
PHOTOGRAPHER
Gonzalo Viramonte Arch
OBJECTIVE
Housing projects constitute the predominant architectural endeavors in contemporary construction, yet architects often overlook their significance for the advancement of the discipline and their profound impact on society. The home serves as the primary spatial environment for nearly every individual, necessitating careful architectural consideration. However, during the latter part of the 20th century, architectural attention shifted towards seemingly more glamorous programs, relegating domestic conceptualization to mere economic perspectives and neglecting its holistic architectural dimensions.
Situated in an underdeveloped sector of Moreno City, characterized by severe degradation, traditional real estate solutions have typically resorted to the creation of exclusive gated communities with private security forces. In contrast, this project proposes a condominium of residences designed to integrate with the surrounding neighborhood through a commercial ground floor, while also preserving the area's valuable vegetation. Consequently, what were once perceived as challenges are transformed into key assets of the project. This exemplifies how a private housing initiative, when conceived as an integral component of broader urban planning, can effectively alter the socio-spatial reality of a region.
Architects operating within such contexts must seize every opportunity to transcend commercial imperatives and imbue their structures with social significance. In locales where public infrastructure projects are scarce, architects bear the responsibility of transforming business ventures into genuine architectural interventions that foster community cohesion and social interaction.
CONTEXT
Housing projects constitute the predominant architectural endeavors in contemporary construction, yet architects often overlook their significance for the advancement of the discipline and their profound impact on society. The home serves as the primary spatial environment for nearly every individual, necessitating careful architectural consideration. However, during the latter part of the 20th century, architectural attention shifted towards seemingly more glamorous programs, relegating domestic conceptualization to mere economic perspectives and neglecting its holistic architectural dimensions.
Situated in an underdeveloped sector of Moreno City, characterized by severe degradation, traditional real estate solutions have typically resorted to the creation of exclusive gated communities with private security forces. In contrast, this project proposes a condominium of residences designed to integrate with the surrounding neighborhood through a commercial ground floor, while also preserving the area's valuable vegetation. Consequently, what were once perceived as challenges are transformed into key assets of the project. This exemplifies how a private housing initiative, when conceived as an integral component of broader urban planning, can effectively alter the socio-spatial reality of a region.
Architects operating within such contexts must seize every opportunity to transcend commercial imperatives and imbue their structures with social significance. In locales where public infrastructure projects are scarce, architects bear the responsibility of transforming business ventures into genuine architectural interventions that foster community cohesion and social interaction.
PERFORMANCE
The construction of the building was met with positive reception from the outset, as it brought increased activity to the area, enhancing its vibrancy and vitality. Residents appreciated the project's use of simple materials and shapes, which incorporated vernacular elements in a contemporary manner. Notably, the building's front included an elevated 200sqm strip, creating a new public space in an area lacking such amenities.
Following its completion, the building quickly reached full occupancy, demonstrating the genuine demand for this type of housing. It attracted a diverse range of residents, including traditional families, groups of friends, single-parent families, and individuals living alone. The design effectively balanced private and communal spaces, allowing residents to extend their living areas into the central patio. This layout facilitated spontaneous communal events, such as celebrations for Children's Day, a common occurrence in Argentina. Additionally, the positioning of secondary bedrooms facing the patio enabled children to have a direct view of their play area.
Originally conceived as individual gardening plots, the vegetable garden evolved into a communal system managed by the condominium association. Residents collectively cultivated organic vegetables, which were then shared among the community upon harvest. This collaborative approach fostered a sense of community and sustainability within the building.
