Buenos Aires House: Where the Organic Meets the Solid in the Heart of Bonfim Paulista

In the Bonfim Paulista region of Brazil, where nature meets urbanity, the “Buenos Aires House” stands as a testament to the possibilities of contemporary design. Completed in 2025 by estúdio mariane rios, this project is not just a residence; it is an architectural statement that embodies the philosophy of “interlocking volumes” on a unique double-frontage plot, creating a unique geometric dialogue between mass and void, and between the strength of concrete and the warmth of wood.

The Core Design Idea: A Philosophy of Interlocking Volumes

The concept of “interlocking volumes” forms the backbone of the design. This philosophy is manifested in the superposition of two distinct architectural volumes, each with its own identity and function:

· The Lower Volume (The Base): This is represented by the monochromatic ground floor, which masterfully combines paint and metal sheets in graduated shades of gray. This base establishes a visual stability and merges harmoniously with the site’s surroundings.
· The Upper Volume (The Mass): Rising above the base is a denser, bolder upper volume, characterized by a facade of concrete slats. These slats not only grant the project its unique visual identity but also play a pivotal functional role in controlling the amount of natural light and ventilation, creating a dynamic relationship between inside and outside.

Materials and Finishes: A Symphony of Textures and Contrasts

· Concrete and Steel: Concrete slats dominate the facade as both an aesthetic and functional element, while polished stainless steel appears in the final touches, enhancing the spirit of modernity and durability.
· The Organic Warmth of Wood: Wood is the main element in the interior decor, covering the ceiling and wooden floors in a “parquet pattern” and dominating the furniture design. This intentional contrast softens the sharpness of modern architectural lines and creates a warm, comfortable atmosphere.
· The Natural Luxury of Marble and Stone: Exquisite marble work by “Segramar,” alongside wall stones from “Paradise Stones,” features in areas such as the bathrooms, adding a touch of natural luxury and robustness.
· Flooring and Finishes: Bathroom and laundry room floors were chosen from “Portobello” to suit wet functions, while the wall texture was executed by “Decorcreel” to add depth and another dimension to the spaces.

The Interior Experience: Where Function Meets Beauty

The interior spaces, spanning 535 square meters, are designed to reflect a philosophy of “simple living” without sacrificing functional elegance. The joinery by “Ismaj” and “Florença” for the kitchen, laundry room, and cabinets creates soft lines and ample storage, while furniture from “Jader Almeida” completes the picture with comfortable and practical designs. The meticulous lighting design by “Lucerina” highlights the details of the materials and emphasizes their beauty, deepening the visual experience.

Sustainability and Environmental Control

The environmental aspect was not overlooked in the project, with the integration of an advanced solar energy system implemented by “Netish.” The air conditioning and ventilation system from “Maxi Ar” works in tandem with the architectural design to ensure thermal comfort with energy efficiency. The landscape architecture by “Mônica Costa” complements this picture by integrating the building with its gardens in an organic manner.

Conclusion: A House Beyond the Ordinary

The “Buenos Aires House” remains more than just a building; it is a comprehensive living experience. Thanks to the clear vision of estúdio mariane rios and close collaboration with a team of craftsmen and specialists like “Bistan Engineering” for execution and “Automundi” for automation, this project presents a successful model of contemporary residential design that respects its surroundings and offers an exceptional quality of life for its inhabitants.

✦Archup Editorial Insight

The article captures the idea of relying on the interlocking of volumes as a formal methodology to shape the project’s identity. The design raises questions about the effectiveness of the concrete slats on the facade in achieving optimal thermal insulation and how this massive volume will respond to the local climate over the long term. The distribution of internal spaces appears subordinate to the external form, which may limit their functional flexibility and affect the flow of movement between them. However, the treatment succeeds in achieving an intentional and harmonious contrast between the nature of the raw materials used on the exterior and their warmer counterparts on the interior.

Brought to you by the ArchUp Editorial Team

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