2024
MCHAP.emerge
Casa Taller
Agustin Berzero, Manuel Gonzalez Veglia (Tectum Arquitectura)
La Paisanita, Córdoba, Argentina
May 2022
PRIMARY AUTHOR
Agustin Berzero (Architect), Manuel Gonzalez Veglia (Architect)
CONTRIBUTING AUTHOR
Manuel Gonzale
CLIENT
Agustina Triquell
PHOTOGRAPHER
Federico Cairoli
OBJECTIVE
The building celebrates the encompassing landscape. Access is thoughtfully designed from above, street level, with a roof that never exceeds the highest point of the terrain, ensuring unobstructed views. The journey inside unfolds gradually, inviting contemplation and culminating in an entry from below. This approach not only facilitates access but also respectfully honors the natural topography.
A well-defined geometry is defined with a retaining wall in relation to the mountain; a bridge extends and adds connection. Its narrow footprint, reminiscent of a "goat's," mirrors the vertiginous terrain, with the program arranged at multiple stories, from the terrace to the ground.
From the exterior perspective, it presents itself as a monolithic structure, where concrete is the sole material emerging from its surroundings. Concrete serves as both structure and space, forging connection with earth and sky. Its walls have a rough finish capable of revealing the passage of time and imprinting the climate and tones of the location on the structure.
CONTEXT
Located in Córdoba, amidst a terrain with an almost 45-degree incline, the Workshop House enjoys the soothing sounds of the river and captivating views of the mountains and treetops. It's designed to be more than just a dwelling; it's house for living, working, and writing in an environment of solitude and tranquility that allows philosophical work.
The architectural design thrives on complementary opposites. While its lower part is heavy, the upper portion is lightweight. It barely rests on supports. At times, it opens up to embrace the vistas and bask in the warmth of the sun. Yet, it can also be firmly closed for introspection.
PERFORMANCE
Inside, the spatial configuration exhibits a contemplative character, marked by unique proportions, elevation shifts, and strategically positioned apertures that reveal or conceal the landscape. Wooden cladding envelops the interior spaces, offering a contrasting warmth to the rugged exterior and releasing a lingering aroma upon entry.
Hovering amid the treetops, a versatile space for living, dining, cooking, and awakening seamlessly connects with the landscape. In contrast, an introspective mezzanine, with an open floor plan, seems to float above the void. Illuminated from below, it fosters an atmosphere conducive to deep introspection, offering a sanctuary for writing and reading, a disconnect from the outside world.
Far from being a fragile construction it is a new piece on the mountain with formal synthesis and material simplicity. The proposal respects its context by resorting to basic, "handmade" technology, and few simple operations. The proposal does not alter the natural topography and suggests different types of spaces: interior and exterior, intimate or open. Meanwhile, air and water continue to run beneath the house.
