Architectural elegance in Matanzas
Perched boldly over a ravine in Matanzas, Chile, Negrilla House by Croxatto and Opazo Architects is a striking testament to modern architecture. This 152-square-metre home features two stacked terraces that offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. It extends seamlessly from a nearby road, adopting a pier-like timber structure, coated in black bio-resin to protect it from harsh coastal winds.
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Design details and structure
The design utilizes the land’s natural contours, positioning the structure to maximize uninterrupted western views. Two timber-slatted walkways adorn each side, guiding you to terraces that sweep outwards toward the sea. “The project’s primary strategy was to position the built volume along the eastern slope,” explains Nicolás Opazo Marchetti, co-founder of the studio. This creates a coherent, elongated form, hugging the landscape’s natural lines.
Ingenious use of space
Accessibility begins from a southern parking area, leading along an 18-metre external walkway to the entrance. This opens into the combined living, dining, and kitchen area, enhanced by full-height sliding doors. This space escalates slightly higher, capturing the seascape through doors that open to a large terrace, partially sheltered for comfort.
Terrace living with flair
Underneath, a second terrace caters to outdoor gatherings. This lower space, exposed yet intimate, contrasts its black surroundings with natural timbers. As terrain steepens, the architecture dynamically splits, bifurcating into multiple levels to blend nature and living spaces fluidly.
Interior harmony
The interior contrasts the dark exterior with bright pine boards washed in a soft white. Bedrooms and an internal corridor are on the western edge, fostering seamless indoor transitions.
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Croxatto and Opazo Architects consistently innovate with form and function. Previous projects include houses outside Santiago and on Navidad’s coast, both turned thoughtfully towards sea vistas. Their commitment to sustainable design is evident in every detail. As captured by Cristóbal Palma, Negrilla House embodies an architectural symphony that harmonizes structure with its stunning coastal setting.
Source: dezeen.com
Frequently asked questions
What is a distinctive feature of Negrilla House’s design?
Negrilla House features two stacked terraces that offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. It uses a pier-like timber structure coated in black bio-resin to protect it from harsh coastal winds.
How does Negrilla House integrate with its natural surroundings?
The design utilizes the land’s natural contours to position the structure for maximum uninterrupted western views, creating a coherent, elongated form that hugs the landscape’s natural lines.
How does Negrilla House address indoor-outdoor living?
The combined living, dining, and kitchen area is enhanced by full-height sliding doors, opening to a large terrace. Underneath, a second terrace caters to outdoor gatherings, allowing for fluid integration with the surrounding nature.