GITC arquitectura complete casa chamisero on chilean mountain range

located at the base of the mountain range just north of santiago, chile, casa chamisero is a GITC arquitectura designed home with a dynamic mix of structural and programmatic elements that offer a wide range of private and public spaces. the 5000 m2 site with it’s northern orientation enjoys plenty of sunlight and views over the adjacent valley, as well as a lower density development which allows for a natural privacy from neighbors. the general layout spans east/west to maximize the surface area facing the northern horizon while more enclosed private bedrooms are situated on the south end pressed closer to the ascending slope.

the house sits high above the entry road with a steel and timber privacy fence wrapping around the exterior of the public space
all images courtesy of GITC arquitectura

GITC spent in total two years designing the structure with much input from the clients to ensure the house’s relationship to the site and the program included would aptly suit the owners. a large concrete plinth serves as the foundation for the complex geometries that unfold around the design. with such a variety of spaces, the structure responds with a combination of concrete, steel, and wood, at times presenting a more solid imposing element while at others remaining light and unobtrusive allowing for large openings. the primary volume of the house on the first floor consists of a double height room surrounded in glass to allow natural light from all sides. the central staircase leads to the bedrooms on the second level can be used to access the auxiliary program- home theater, music room, aquariums, and multi-functional space located in the basement.

the north-facing swimming pool extends over the valley views defining a large patio area

the plinth gradually rises from the waning slope forming a sort of veranda leading to the north-facing infinity pool which cantilevers past the extent of the basement walls four meters over natural grade. a shallower reflecting pool wraps around the outer walls of the first floor helping to mitigate high temperatures in addition to its role as an aesthetic element. above the first floor, which consists mainly of a glass envelope, local chilean wood planks clad the angular forms that contain the bedrooms. concrete is carried through to the interior forming walls and a polished floor while steel beams are left exposed adding to the variety of internal materials.

a reflecting pool wraps around the base of the house as an architectural element