SGGB architects situates CBI house in chilean forest

SGGB architects situates CBI house in chilean forest
photo by sebastian guevara sinclair
all images courtesy of SGGB architects

located in a forested environment near puerto varas, chile, SGGB architects has composed the ‘CBI house’ to maximize daylight, thermal retention, and framed views of the context. the design is organized based on a three-dimensional grid of 1.5 meters cubed. the resulting irregular form is primarily defined by the manipulation and combination of programmatic volumes over three floors. to negotiate the 15 percent slope of the site, the structure is elevated by a series of inclined wood posts. this system serves to reduce the amount of concrete footings necessary for the attachment of the structure to the ground plane.

the north elevation contains large glazed portions for plentiful daylight and views
photo by sebastian guevara sinclair

the residence’s tectonics unite many factors, including the necessity for sloped surfaces to drain heavy rain accumulation, a compact and diverse spatial arrangement, and influences from 18th century towers in the osorno region of chile. the result is a structure entirely made of wood, with black stained planks wrapping the exterior surfaces to create a uniform volume. from one angle it looks monolithic, but this perception is deceived by large volumes protruding from the building at upper levels.

the house is situated in a clearing among a dense forest
photo by sebastian guevara sinclair

the house is arranged with the most public space at the ground level, with more private areas on the upper floors.

the roof combines a variety of slopes to manage heavy rain accumulation
photo by sebastian guevara sinclair

despite its dark exterior, large windows allow for plentiful daylight throughout the dwelling. on the north side, a canted wall angles to allow room for skylights, which illuminate the lower floors. above, prominent windows frame views of the forest setting.

the exterior surfaces are wrapped in stained wood to create a monolithic volume
photo by sebastian guevara sinclair

public spaces are organized on the ground floor
photo by sebastian guevara sinclair

photo by sebastian guevara sinclair

skylights admit plentiful daylight into the house
photo by sebastian guevara sinclair

photo by sebastian guevara sinclair

photo by sebastian guevara sinclair

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project info:

location: puerto varas, chile
site area: 5000 sqm
built area: 165 sqm
project year: 2012
year built: 2013
architect in charge / design team: sebastian guevara sinclair
structural engineer: alex popp c.
builder: juan velazquez (velarco)
photography: sebastian guevara sinclair