Forest House by Gonzalo Bardach Arquitectura: A Sustainable Retreat Merging Architecture and Nature
Location: Pinamar, Buenos Aires Province, Argentina
Year Completed: 2023
Total Built Area: 230 m²
Exterior Area: 50 m²
Photography: César Béjar
Architects: Gonzalo Bardach Arquitectura
Category: Residential, Sustainable & Green Design
Introduction
Nestled within a coniferous forest on the coastal dunes of Pinamar, Argentina, Forest House by Gonzalo Bardach Arquitectura is a masterclass in biophilic design, seamlessly blending architecture with its natural surroundings. This 280 m² residential project redefines sustainable living by harmonizing built form and landscape through organic geometry, passive design strategies, and native ecological integration.
Concept & Design Philosophy
1. Architecture as an Extension of the Landscape
The design embraces the existing dune topography, embedding three semi-buried pavilions into the terrain. These structures are interconnected by a living green roof, creating a continuous dialogue between indoor and outdoor spaces.
Key Features:
- Fluid, organic forms mimic the natural contours of the dunes.
- Central void frames views of the forest, enhancing spatial continuity.
- Liquid stone (a sculptural concrete technique) adapts to the slope, reinforcing the bond between structure and site.
2. Light and Shadow as Dynamic Elements
Natural light plays a pivotal role, filtering through the pine canopy to create an ever-changing interplay of shadows. The architects describe the house as a “living canvas”, where sunlight transforms the interior atmosphere throughout the day.
3. Materiality: Raw, Natural, and Low-Maintenance
The material palette emphasizes authenticity and longevity:
- Liquid stone (for structural and aesthetic cohesion)
- Wood (warmth and texture)
- Iron and glass (minimalist framing for transparency)
These materials age gracefully, requiring minimal upkeep while blending seamlessly into the forest.
Sustainability & Bio-Environmental Strategy
Forest House exemplifies passive design principles to minimize energy consumption:
✔ Optimal Solar Orientation – Maximizes natural heating in winter and shade in summer.
✔ Cross Ventilation – Reduces reliance on mechanical cooling.
✔ Native Landscaping – Supports local biodiversity with drought-resistant species.
✔ Green Roof – Insulates the structure and merges it with the ecosystem.
Landscape Design: A Living, Evolving Ecosystem
Rather than imposing rigid garden layouts, the design encourages organic growth:
- Native coastal plants were selected through botanical research.
- The landscape evolves naturally, fostering biodiversity and ecological resilience.
- The garden serves as a habitat for local wildlife, reinforcing the project’s environmental ethos.
Spatial Organization: A Single-Level Sanctuary
The house is organized into three pavilions, each serving a distinct function:
- Social Pavilion Open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area.
- Private Pavilion Bedrooms and resting spaces.
- Service Pavilion Utilities and storage.
A central gallery connects these zones, lined with floor-to-ceiling glass to immerse occupants in the forest.
Emotional & Experiential Architecture
Beyond functionality, Forest House is designed as a contemplative retreat:
- Silence and solitude are prioritized, offering a respite from urban life.
- The architecture fosters a deepened connection with nature, aligning with biophilic design principles.
Conclusion: A New Paradigm for Sustainable Living
Forest House is more than a home it’s a testament to the harmonious coexistence of architecture and nature. By prioritizing sustainability, passive design, and emotional well-being, Gonzalo Bardach Arquitectura has created a timeless sanctuary that inspires future eco-conscious projects.
Why This Project Matters
- Innovative Use of Liquid Stone Challenges traditional construction methods.
- Regenerative Landscaping Goes beyond sustainability to actively support ecosystems.
- Holistic Design Approach Balances aesthetics, functionality, and environmental ethics.
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