The residence is part of a traditional picket fence style condominium complex. The interior had little visual, spatial or aesthetic relationship with the exterior creating a sense of contrast and disconnectedness between the two.
The approach unifies and amplifies the spatial perception and responds to the challenges with simple and original interventions. Inspired by the exterior architectural style and context, and the needs of the client, the concept is centered on natural light and the possibilities offered by retractable panels with adjustable porosity.
Louvers, with their contemporary as well as traditional aesthetic, cover the exterior walls of the main space. They slide horizontally or vertically, with an adjustable porosity which enables to modulate in a refined way the interior - exterior relationship according to the desired ambiances, intimacy, views to the newly vegetalized terrace, access to outside, natural ventilation, etc.
The project integrates technical innovations such as the louvers mecanism. In the double-height space, a unique system was designed for the project. The louvers panels are coupled with opaque panels that act as counterweights and shade the upper windows. The elements slide vertically and are effortlessly operated manually by a system of pulleys and steel cables. The multiple blades of the louvers diffuse sound reflections, while the opaque counterweight panels are covered with an acoustically absorbent panel.
The reconfigured mezzanine can be used for different functions. A curtain allows to close the space if needed. A new perforated gypsum balustrade contributes to the improved acoustics of the space. Steel beams left exposed from the original design are reused and extended as yellow strips changing their trajectory when encountering planes or surfaces until becoming a custom wine rack designed by the architects specifically for the space.
The same form, a truncated circle, which becomes a recurring motif, links the different interventions. It is repeated throughout objects such as furniture, rugs, outdoor Japanese steps, accentuating the sense of continuity. A series of custom-made, designed for the project by the architect, mobile and stackable plywood furniture with the same shape is distributed throughout the rooms and serve as benches, bookcases, bedside tables, etc. These objects are modular, multifunctional and flexible in their interpretation and use.
By making ingenious use of the louver, a conventional element, the space created is both unique and classical.
The sustainable approach is based on the maximum use of wood (louvers, furniture) and on the comfort of the users. The louvers control the entry of light and different strategies improve the acoustic quality. The design of multifunctional spaces and objects allows to reduce the use of resources.