alric galindez tops casa CS with folded roof in mountainous argentina

alric galindez tops casa CS with folded roof in mountainous argentina
image © jeremías thomas

alric galindez arquitectos have positioned ‘casa CS’ to receive unobstructed views of both the snow-capped mountains on one side and lake gutierrez on the other. perched over a dry hill with little vegetation, the vast house is formed by two simple volumes to enhance the timber and stone used throughout. mimicking the rocky mountains behind, a folding roof with skylights top the residence, while cypress wood planks at different thicknesses form the external cladding on the upper volume, all of which rests on top of a stone base.

the longitudinal home is formed by two volumes
image © jeremías thomas

from the inside, the kitchen, dining, lounge – wrapped in wood – is located on the top floor which opens up to a terrace and views over the lake. spacious and light-filled rooms have been dedicated solely for gatherings and communal programs; to support social interaction and enjoyment of the scenery outside. as light streams through the skylights, this highlights the interiors which expresses a tranquil essence of a contemporary mountain retreat. 

the use of stone and wood have been continued inside, with glass paneled walls and contemporary furnishings
image © javier agustín rojas

‘every landscape is a subjective interpretation of a territory; therefore it is necessary to understand what limits our landscape.’ comments architect alric galindez about the building’s positioning. ‘this is why our field of work surpasses the site’s limits. we understand there are two different points of view: one from afar approaching the site and one from within the house towards the landscape.’

the upper level is used as a social and meeting space, where all of the functions are fully integrated
image © albano garcía

the folded roof form translates to the wood-wrapped ceiling of the upper floor
image © javier agustín rojas

the roof skylights allow the morning sun to enter, highlighting the different situations in the communal areas
image ©  albano garcía

different widths of cypress wooden planks clad the exterior
image ©  albano garcía

the vast home nestles among the snow-laden landscape in argentina
image © jeremias thomas 

project info:

name: CS house
location: arelauquen g&cc– bariloche –rio negro – argentina
project year : 2005
completion year: 2012
collaborators: alfredo quiroga, sofía peluffo, joaquín adot
structural engineer: ing. susana marconi
installations: gaviño, nieto, beverati, ansaldo
construction: zapata y canale
site area: 3655 sqm
covered area: 525.21 sqm
covered exterior area: 42 sqm