2024
MCHAP.emerge
Casa IB
Estudio Ferrazini
Ibarlucea, Santa Fe, Argentina
August 2021
PRIMARY AUTHOR
Pedro Ferrazini (Principal Architect)
CONTRIBUTING AUTHOR
Sebastian Zucco (Structural Engineer), Arq. Juan Ignacio Torrezán (Constructor), Arq. Lucas Lamagni (Constructor), Arq. Lisandro Lopez (Constructor), Arq. Francisco Pomar (Constructor
CLIENT
Pablo Ferrazini
PHOTOGRAPHER
Javier Agustin Rojas
OBJECTIVE
The house project's objectives are driven by a comprehensive understanding of its users' needs and desires, prioritizing functionality, versatility, and sustainability. Architectonically, it aims to innovate through efficient use of materials, structural integrity, and construction techniques.
The spatial program aims to optimize both interior and exterior spaces, accommodating diverse activities while promoting privacy and connectivity. Interiorly, the loft-style layout creates distinct zones for sleeping, cooking, and dining, while exteriorly, the integration of semi-public and private areas allows for simultaneous use of different activities, maximizing functionality.
Additionally, the project fosters social dynamics by providing spaces for interaction and collaboration. Environmentally, sustainability is a key objective, with a focus on minimizing ecological footprint through energy-efficient design strategies, passive solar heating, and natural ventilation. Moreover, the use of locally sourced materials and incorporation of green technologies further contribute to environmental stewardship.
The project's objectives encompass a meticulous approach to material and technique selection, aiming to achieve a balance between precision and rusticity. The contrast between millimetric precision of metalwork and the centimeter precision of masonry block concrete creates a dynamic interplay that blends rustic charm with architectural expression. This deliberate juxtaposition of materials and techniques enhances the visual and tactile richness of the project.
CONTEXT
Nestled within the suburban landscape of Ibarlucea, the project embodies a symbiotic relationship with its surroundings, deeply influenced by the town's socioeconomic and demographic context. In response to Ibarlucea's predominantly working-class population seeking self-assembled or pre-assembled housing options, the project is strategically designed to reflect practicality and affordability.
Physically, the project seamlessly integrates into the natural environment, leveraging locally sourced materials such as concrete blocks and metal elements. This choice not only aligns with the rustic charm of the area but also ensures durability and sustainability. The site, once the location of a "Casco de Estancia", boasts mature trees and fruit-bearing plants, providing a serene backdrop for the project.
Socioeconomically, the project caters to the needs of working-class families, offering accessible housing options that resonate with the town's ethos of simplicity and functionality. Its design embraces industrial-inspired elements, evoking a sense of familiarity and belonging within the community.
Historically, the project contributed to the preservation of Ibarlucea's heritage by repurposing the former "Casco de Estancia" spaces. This integration of historical context adds depth and significance to the project, highlighting the continuity between past and present. Especially trying to create a connection between a new porch or gallery and the natural context that invited the inhabitants of the space to contemplate it.
PERFORMANCE
Over its initial period of use, the project has demonstrated outstanding performance in meeting and even surpassing expectations. Its innovative design seamlessly transitions from public to private spaces, providing users with a dynamic and adaptable living environment. The integration of semi-public and private areas has fostered a sense of community and connectivity among residents, facilitating social interactions and collaboration.
Moreover, the project's emphasis on sustainability has resulted in significant environmental benefits, exceeding initial projections. Energy-efficient design strategies, such as passive solar heating, natural ventilation, efficient thermal isolation, have minimized the project's ecological footprint, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable living environment.
Residents can transition gradually from public to highly private settings as they move through each space. The journey begins beneath the structure, pivoting 180º before ascending the stairs and landing at a very permeable balcony where the space contracts and transforms before entering the loft space indoors.
The project's concept, deeply rooted in its context, has added considerable value to both its users and the surrounding community. By prioritizing functionality, versatility, and sustainability, the building has become a model for innovative and inclusive housing solutions in Ibarlucea. Its seamless integration with the natural landscape and thoughtful design approach have garnered admiration from neighbors and visitors alike, enhancing the habitational solutions of the area with more projects experimenting new combinations of techniques and materials like precast and insitu assemble and steel framing.
