eucalyptus wood structure crafts guabo house by ese colectivo in ecuador

Ese Colectivo constructs and expands Guabo House in Yaruquí

Guabo House by Ese Colectivo is a project centered on the rehabilitation and expansion of a former social housing dwelling situated in Yaruquí, just east of Quito in Ecuador. The original structure, comprising two bedrooms, a bathroom, a kitchen, and a social area within a modest 25 sqm, sets the foundation for the extension, aimed at enhancing the dwelling’s spatial quality while fostering a stronger connection with the surrounding garden.

Utilizing traditional Andean techniques and materials such as bahareque walls and eucalyptus wood, the expansion project unfolds with careful consideration of the existing structure and local vernacular. The extension maintains the original dwelling’s width, seamlessly blending with the garden landscape while preserving the slope of the existing roof and respecting the garden’s vegetation.

Central to the design is the creation of a minimal internal courtyard, strategically positioned around an existing Guabo tree. This courtyard serves as a transitional space, delineating the private and social zones within the dwelling. The construction features a sturdy eucalyptus wood structure enclosed by bahareque walls, defining openings, windows, and entrances throughout the space.

all images courtesy of Ese Colectivo

earthen walls and wooden finishes adorn the interior

The new roof design, maintaining the original slope while introducing a slight offset, ensures ample natural light penetration. This offset also organizes the internal layout, creating distinct zones for the kitchen and study. The lightweight sandwich roof system minimizes stress on the eucalyptus structure, extending gracefully towards the garden to form a welcoming front porch.

The design team at Ese Colectivo reorganizes the layout within the existing structure to optimize comfort and spaciousness in the private areas. Transforming the single existing bathroom into two complete bathrooms enhances functionality while retaining much of the original perimeter walls, roof, and subfloor.

The resulting architectural composition is characterized by an elongated volume where the original construction harmonizes with the expansion. Contrasts emerge between the pristine white spaces of the original dwelling and the warm, earthy tones of the expanded social area. The use of earth walls, eucalyptus structures, and wooden finishes creates an inviting and airy atmosphere.

the project focuses on rehabilitating and expanding a former social housing dwelling in Yaruquí, Ecuador

the original dwelling forms the basis for the extension, aiming to enhance spatial quality and garden connectivity

utilizing Andean methods like bahareque walls and eucalyptus wood, the extension blends with the landscape

preservation of the existing roof slope and garden vegetation respects the site’s natural elements

the new roof maintains the original slope while introducing a slight offset for ample natural light penetration

the lightweight sandwich roof system extends gracefully towards the garden, forming a welcoming entryway

distinct zones for the kitchen and study are created within the expanded space, optimizing functionality

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the resulting architecture seamlessly combines original and expanded elements, creating a harmonious whole

earth walls, eucalyptus structures, and wooden finishes contribute to the dwelling's inviting ambiance

the project embodies Ese Colectivo's commitment to blending tradition with modern functionality

project info:

name: Guabo House
architect: Ese Colectivo | @esecolectivo

location: Yaruquí, Ecuador

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom