Residential SERIES  •  Project FEATURE

Ode to the Environment – Casa R&C by Cristián Nanzer

From the thoughtful placement on the plot to the intricacy of its vaulted design, the project exemplifies an intentional and evocative approach to contemporary architecture.

The site unfolds as a canvas perfectly aligned with the house's design philosophy. The south-facing front welcomes visitors into a space that reveals itself gradually, while the rear boundary opens to unobstructed views to the north, overlooking the neighborhood golf course. The gentle slope of the land is embraced as a design asset, shaping the arrangement of living spaces and their connection to the outdoors. Nanzer’s decision to locate the social areas on the upper floor reflects a thoughtful sensitivity to the surrounding landscape. Elevated, these spaces capture distant views, while the ground floor seamlessly integrates bedrooms, service areas, and a garden that invites nature to become part of daily life. The connection to the golf course enhances the sense of openness and fluidity between the built and unbuilt environments, grounding the home in its surroundings. The access design is a masterpiece of spatial choreography. A double-height volume greets visitors, offering panoramic views of the golf course and establishing a sense of grandeur. The elegantly positioned staircase functions as both a sculptural and practical element, connecting the two levels while visually anchoring the space. This vertical circulation reinforces the spatial hierarchy of the house, inviting exploration and interaction.

"In every curve of the vaults and every shadow cast by the overhangs, Casa R&C tells a story of regional identity and architectural ingenuity."

The house engages in a dialogue between two primary elements: a podium at ground level and a vaulted roof. The podium serves as a robust, anchored base, gracefully adapting to the natural slope of the terrain. Its wall-like structure supports intimate spaces while providing thermal mass and privacy. Above, the vaulted roof—a modern reinterpretation of classical architectural forms—rests delicately on an independent structure, creating a striking contrast between solidity and lightness. The five parallel bands of the vaulted roof are not merely structural; they dictate the rhythm of the interior spaces. They form a canopy that extends over both façades, providing shade and creating transitional areas that blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living. This deliberate modulation of light and shadow results in a cohesive and dynamic spatial experience.

The material palette of Casa R&C reflects its duality. The ground floor, constructed with cyclopean concrete, exudes strength and permanence. Its textured surface, enriched with natural stone inclusions, highlights the craftsmanship and raw beauty of traditional construction techniques. In contrast, the upper level celebrates transparency and lightness, with expansive glass openings framed by the elegant curves of exposed brick vaults. The interplay between heavy and light materials extends beyond aesthetics to serve a practical purpose. Concrete walls provide privacy and protection, while the vaulted roof allows soft, diffuse light to flood the interiors. This dialogue between light and materiality is one of the design’s most poetic aspects, showcasing Nanzer’s mastery in creating spaces that are both functional and beautiful.

"With its raw materiality and refined design, the house offers a poetic response to the demands of its time and place."

The home’s details further emphasize its ethos of thoughtful design. Exposed electrical conduits in galvanized piping reflect an industrial aesthetic while allowing for future adaptability. This choice aligns with the raw materiality of the house and acknowledges the practical needs of an evolving home. To preserve the purity of the vaulted ceilings, the water tank was designed as a standalone sculptural element. It stands as a bold marker of the house’s identity, elevating a functional necessity into an architectural feature.

The outdoor spaces extend the harmonious fusion of architecture and landscape. The garden, pool area, and adjacent park create a tranquil retreat that mirrors the openness of the nearby golf course. The broad eaves of the vaulted roof provide shaded outdoor areas, enabling year-round use while maintaining a strong connection to nature. The northern orientation of these outdoor spaces maximizes sunlight, creating a warm atmosphere that complements the interior. This thoughtful integration ensures the home remains deeply connected to its environment.

At its core, Casa R&C is a celebration of place and tradition. By employing techniques such as vaulted roofs and massive walls, Nanzer draws inspiration from a lineage of archaic and universal architectural principles. Yet, the house remains profoundly modern, addressing contemporary needs with precision and restraint. The builders’ craftsmanship is evident in every detail, from the meticulous placement of stones in the concrete to the flawless curvature of the brick vaults. This regional authenticity imbues the house with a timeless quality, anchoring it in both its physical and cultural context.

Casa R&C stands as a testament to the seamless fusion of tradition and modernity. Its thoughtful design reflects a deep respect for the environment, craftsmanship, and the art of creating inspiring spaces. By reinterpreting classical elements within a contemporary framework, Nanzer presents a design that is both timeless and innovative.