Architects: Arq. Natalia Leves
Area: 1450 m²
Year: 2022
Photography: German Curihuinca
Manufacturers: PreNova
Project Lead: Natalia Leves
Site Supervision: Natalia Leves
Structural Engineering: INGESUD
Contractor: INGESUD
Collaborator: Camila Lopez
Interior Design Collaborator: Yenien Salas
City: General Roca
Country: Argentina
In General Roca, Río Negro, Argentina, the Chile 893 by Arq. Natalia Leves reshapes an old industrial district. This 2022 project extends over 1450 m², where the design embraces the corner lot to blend public and private spaces seamlessly, enhancing community interactions and integrating nature with living areas. The structure is characterized by its sustainable design features, use of local materials, and flexibility in its residential units, aiming to provide adaptable living solutions tailored to diverse family dynamics. The detailed planning and strategic use of materials reflect a deep connection with the locale and a forward-thinking approach to urban living.
The Chile 893 building, situated in the city of General Roca, Río Negro, transforms an old industrial zone into a vibrant community space. The design leverages the 20-meter by 20-meter corner lot to create an inviting ground floor that merges seamlessly with the city’s public life, encouraging interactions among residents and neighbors.
The functional units of the building are strategically arranged around two internal courtyards to maximize sunlight exposure and enhance passive energy use. The building’s structure adheres to a classical composition of base, body, and crown, where both the base and crown serve public functions, enriching the communal experiences of the building’s occupants and the surrounding community.
A public terrace on the building’s roof, equipped with grills and coupled with two private terraces, offers expansive 360-degree views, connecting residents with the local topography and enriching their living experience. This design not only values the landscape but also places users in a novel interaction with their surroundings.
The interior layout promotes a fluid interaction between indoor and outdoor spaces through the integration of patio balconies with the main living areas. The residential units are designed for versatility, featuring foldable partitions that allow spaces to be reconfigured according to the varying needs and lifestyles of the inhabitants.
The exterior of the building showcases a predominant use of brick, chosen for its local availability and the familiarity of the local workforce with this building method. The brickwork forms a protective skin around the units and is creatively adapted into sunshades for the balconies, particularly on the west-facing side of the building, where screening serves as a crucial element in managing solar exposure.
This project stands out for its architectural integrity, deep integration with the community, and thoughtful consideration of environmental and social sustainability.
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Project Location
Address: General Roca, Río Negro Province, Argentina
Location is for general reference and may represent a city or country, not necessarily a precise address.
