ampuero yutronic completes 'casa hualle' in central chile

london- and santiago-based firm ampuero yutronic has designed a large family home in central chile’s araucanía region. the design of the two-storey property responds to its scenic surroundings, characterized by open countryside, temperate rainforests, lakes, and volcanoes. located on a gently sloping site, ‘casa hualle’ is a single sculptural volume that maximizes external views. intriguingly, the building presents two different appearances depending on where it is viewed from. when approached from the road, the house is reminiscent of the region’s agricultural pitched-roof sheds. in contrast, when viewed from the main valley to the north, the building blends into its pastoral context.

all images © felipe fontecilla

the structure was initially conceived by ampuero yutronic as a simple rectangular volume, before a series of manipulations resulted in a more sculptural form. these interventions included the extension of the rectangular footprint to take in views of a volcano, while the home’s entrance is set within a recessed void that provides shelter from wind and rain. on the north side of the property, another recess at ground level creates an overhang to shade the large expanse of glazing from the hot summer sun. finally, the dynamic geometry of the roof transforms from a typical pitched gable end on the short northeast façade, to a flat roof opposite.

the large family home is located in central chile’s araucanía region

externally, the residence resembles other buildings in the area that are typically clad in the region’s black volcanic stone. however, the dwelling is clad in vertical dark-stained timber slats, which have been placed over a black waterproof fabric that provides a more ephemeral skin-like quality. although they appear randomly placed, the positioning and size of the windows is dictated by the views towards the landscape. contrasting the dark exterior, interior walls are lined in pale, stained plywood. meanwhile, warmer natural wood surrounds the windows, which frame carefully composed external views.

the entrance is set within a recessed void that provides shelter from wind and rain

internally, the house is arranged around a double height volume that is orientated to take in views of the volcano and the lake. this central space forms is the social heart of the home, and accommodates the kitchen, as well as dining and living space. two separate guest bedrooms and bathrooms are also located at ground level. the master bedroom and bathroom on the first floor are accessed by stair via the studio, library, and gallery walkway that overlooks the main central space below.

interior walls are lined in pale, stained plywood