two identical wooden blocks form a mirroring c-shape residence in ecuador

HOUSE 2C by BAQUIO ARQUITECTURA stands in the city of Quito

Baquio Arquitectura embeds a single-family residence, House 2C, in the urban context of the valleys of the city of Quito, Ecuador. The proposal is based on two fundamental decisions – firstly, to establish a harmonious relationship with an adjacent construction, and secondly, to foster privacy for spaces that require isolation. The design concept manifests in the form of two identical wooden blocks, separated by a connecting axis that opens up towards the neighboring project. Each block adopts a ‘C’ shape configuration, effectively creating zones that shield their private areas from external views. This arrangement facilitates the designation of service areas within the ‘C’ shapes, introducing a duality between the two blocks, hence the name 2C.

On the ground floor, Block A houses the communal and social spaces for the family, while Block B accommodates a bedroom with a direct link to the neighboring project, along with a collective wet area. Ascending to the upper floor, Block A hosts the primary bedroom, while Block B comprises two rooms directly linked to the neighboring development, fostering intergenerational relationships between grandparents and grandchildren. Vertical circulation is resolved within the connecting axis.

all images courtesy of Baquio Arquitectura

wooden materiality blends modernity with tradition

Materiality assumes a pivotal role in this project, with a predominant focus on wood. The selection of wood is not only rooted in its versatile, robust, and eco-friendly attributes but also seeks to highlight the values inherent in traditional architecture, notably influenced by Japanese aesthetics. The main structure is composed of laminated pine wood. The arrangement of composite columns and beams achieves structural balance and allows for the formation of 1.20-meter overhangs. These overhangs enhance the design’s aesthetics while offering protection to the wood, serving as a shield against rain and intense sunlight.

For the facades, the design team selects palm wood which facilitates superior lacquer absorption due to its porous nature, thereby extending its longevity and minimizing maintenance requirements. Metal elements complement the design, resolving joints, floor finishes, and protective solutions that contribute to the preservation of the wood’s integrity.

on the ground floor, Block A houses the communal and social spaces for the family

the selection of wood is rooted in its eco-friendly attributes and traditional architectural values

Block B accommodates a bedroom, directly linked to the neighboring project, along with a collective wet area

the main structure is composed of laminated pine wood

each block adopts a ‘C’ shape configuration, effectively creating zones that shield their private areas

metal elements complement the design, resolving joints, floor finishes, and protective solutions

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vertical circulation is resolved within the connecting axis

 

 

 

 

project info:

name: HOUSE 2C
architect: BAQUIO ARQUITECTURA | @baquioarquitectura

location: Quito, Ecuador

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom