Eldorado do Sul/RS
Year: 2017
Area: 726 m²
Land: 1,540 m²
Photos: Marcelo Donadussi
FIG HOUSE
HOUSE OF
FIGUEIRA
FIGUEIRA
The ancient and sculptural fig tree (figueira, in Portuguese), with the organic nature of its branches, contrasts with the hardness of the concrete structure on the façade. It houses the bedrooms in the upper floor, and it protects the dwelling from the harsh, polar winds blowing from the south. On the ground floor, a longitudinal structure of Corten steel and glass protrude the living space towards the water. The solarium incorporates the bedrooms, with a view to the horizon of Porto Alegre. The aedicule, located half a flight lower in the terrain, was designed as a space for leisure and contemplation of the main building. The black pool mirrors the building and is a startling feature below the bridge by the wooden deck. Inside, concrete is also present in the curved walls that invade the house, including in the pool shower room and the playroom. The House da Figueira was the winner of the AsBEA 2018 award.
The roots were preserved in their integrity, moving the building foundations to the side in an area of minimal impact.
The façade facing the street serves to block the south wind. The insolation and views are therefore turned to the opposite direction, north, maximizing the contact with the canal water, energy efficiency, and privacy. This resulted in a clean façade, preserving the integrity of the volume.
The south wind, usually of low temperatures, is repelled by the front façade increasing thermal comfort. The north wind is mild and ventilates the inside of the house. A zenithal adds chimney effect, sucking the warm air out of the house and decreasing the temperature range.
Photovoltaic panels capture solar energy and provide electricity for the house. A cistern receives rainwater and supplies the garden irrigation system.
