House YH-02 in Mexico

Konstantinos — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 05:31:44 +0000

This article by Konstantinos was published on ek magazine | Architectural Publications.

Crafting the terrain

The residence is characterized by its contextual integration and artisanal expression.

Context Integration

Using exposed brick and polished cement, the aim is to highlight the manual work of the masons, embodied in each wall. The stone on the ground reinforces the connection with the earth. The front façade protects privacy. In contrast, the rear façade opens up revealing a tree-lined view, taking advantage of the orientation of the land, while the sides of the secondary bedrooms overlook a pool creating internal visual connections, which welcomes the visitor on the ground floor like a large water mirror.

Spatial Organization

The design takes advantage of the unevenness of the ground to generate a half-level semi-basement at the back, optimizing space and following the natural slope of the land. The project consists of two volumes on the upper floor, connected to each other by a glass plane, characterized by their purity of lines and elegance. These feature impressive 4m overhangs, creating a lightweight appearance. At the base, a base entirely made of exposed brick brings warmth and rootedness to the context.

Construction Method

The construction system conceals the columns in the basement, achieving a clean aesthetic. This design gesture highlights the lightness of the upper volumes, while the brick at the base underlines the connection with the local building tradition. Together, the project masterfully fuses modernity and craftsmanship, respecting the human hand and the richness of the natural environment. The bold arrangement of cantilevers and the subtlety in the transition between the architectural elements define a unique work that is integrated into the context.

The post House YH-02 in Mexico was originally published on ek magazine | Architectural Publications | ek magazine – Architectural Publications.

Japi House in Brazil

Konstantinos — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 05:31:18 +0000

This article by Konstantinos was published on ek magazine | Architectural Publications.

Expressive materiality

A contemporary refuge at the foothills of Serra do Japi, in the countryside of São Paulo state, serves as the setting for an architectural project that revives ancient construction techniques.

Construction Strategy

The residence seamlessly integrates architecture with nature through its thoughtful use of materials and bioclimatic design. The project employs rammed earth -a technique introduced to Brazil by the Portuguese during the colonial period- where earth is compacted within a wooden formwork known as taipal using a tool called pilão. This technique, combined with exposed concrete and a lush rooftop garden, creates a robust and expressive materiality that harmonizes with the landscape while ensuring optimal environmental performance.

Spatial Layout & Materiality

The residence organically adapts to its radial plot through a curvilinear rammed earth wall, emphasizing materiality as a defining architectural element. This wall also enhances privacy, shielding the home from the street and neighboring properties. The layout follows a binuclear organization, centered around a main access point that leads to fluid, interconnected spaces opening onto a spacious garden and a pool at the rear. The striking horizontality of the structure is punctuated by a vertical tower, which houses bathrooms, water reservoirs, and technical equipment, adding a distinctive feature to the overall volumetric composition.

Sustainable Approach

Bioclimatic strategies are integrated throughout the design: an internal courtyard facilitates cross ventilation and natural lighting, while deep eaves and verandas protect the interiors from direct sunlight. The accessible rooftop doubles as an elevated garden, enhancing thermal insulation and providing a sustainable base for solar panels, maximizing energy efficiency. The project exemplifies architecture as both a comfortable retreat and an extension of its natural surroundings.

The post Japi House in Brazil was originally published on ek magazine | Architectural Publications | ek magazine – Architectural Publications.

craftmanship Archives | ek magazine | Architectural Publications

House YH-02 in Mexico

Crafting the terrain

Japi House in Brazil

Expressive materiality