zayat arquitectura encases 'house in the clouds' with perforated panels in argentina

House in the Clouds by Zayat Arquitectura

Located in a native forest near Salsipuedes, about 30 kilometers from Córdoba, Argentina, the House in the Clouds by Zayat Arquitectura takes shape as a modern residence for a family of four. Positioned centrally on the sloping land, it takes on the form of a simple white prism design, facing north and blending with the surrounding clouds. Access to the house is facilitated by a cobblestone path beneath it, utilizing the uneven terrain for cistern tanks and parking. The entrance to the interior offers an experiential journey, starting with natural stone formations on the ground that create beds and steps leading to a suspended staircase. The resulting building features a clean geometric design using a single material, as captured by architectural photographer Gonzalo Viramonte. On the northern side, movable and perforated metal panels produce a veil-like effect, reducing winds in the gallery and filtering sunlight, while a compact white metal composition clads the southern facade. This design, along with the suspended arrangement and color palette, establishes a subtle connection with the sky and clouds.

all images © Gonzalo Viramonte | @gonzaloviramonte

Exploring the Spaces within a modern design

The house by Zayat Arquitectura (see more here) is organized within a compact space, featuring a service island that divides the social and private areas. A storage unit on the south side meets functional needs. This spatial arrangement, with its open design, generously extends towards the north and west, creating a seamless connection between living spaces and the gallery while establishing harmony with the mountains. As one moves through the space, transitioning to the north gallery, a sliding wooden door allows glimpses into the interior. The interplay of light on the vermillion-colored wood paneling creates a scenographic spatial experience, leading to the heart of the home, the social area, where residents can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

the exterior design embraces a clear geometric pattern, employing a single material

The architectural decisions for the House in the Clouds were influenced by the site’s characteristics. The diverse terrain, temperature fluctuations, lack of running water, and unique vegetation led to the adoption of a predominantly dry construction approach. Prefabricated metal profiles were assembled on-site to form the core structure, with only the foundations and mezzanine slab utilizing a wet construction method. This strategic decision aimed to capture and retain heat during winter, demonstrating a pragmatic consideration of environmental factors. Both externally and internally, the use of eucalyptus phenolic wood on ceilings, walls, doors, and furniture creates a consistent warm atmosphere, integrating the interior with the natural surroundings.