This house is located in Martínez, a suburban neighborhood of Buenos Aires. Surrounded by traditional houses, the site is the combination of two lots. The clients, a couple with two children, envisioned the project as a space to nurture the family life. 

 

The L-shape ground floor sits against one of the lateral limits of the lot and has a 10-foot (3-meter) setback on the opposite side. A 7-foot (2-meter) high concrete wall was built on the front property line and against the neighboring house in a 90-degree angle, to create a more private space for the entrance and to screen the lateral views. A reflecting pool with water lilies was placed in front of the entrance door. 

 

The program was developed in three levels: the ground floor accommodates the living spaces, the second floor, the bedrooms and the third, an office. The kitchen, the family room, the living-dining room are interconnected and become an integrated space. Extending from side to side of the back elevation, a generous covered patio becomes the outdoor expansion of the living spaces and the ideal entertaining area for the summer. 

 

In an effort to give privacy from the street, the front elevation was screened with wood slats and shutters. The rear elevation is wide open with glass surfaces. All the rooms are oriented towards the east and the back of the property, enjoying the views of the garden. 

 

The structure was constructed with reinforced concrete, the same material that is exposed on the outside of the building. Internally, the walls were finished with plaster and exposed concrete and the floors, with oak wood boards. Travertine and concrete were the materials chosen for the exterior floors. 

 

The house was built preserving a magnificent oak tree that already existed in the property. Its proximity to the building creates an interesting relationship between both and its foliage provides ever-changing magical shades and views.