Dialogue with nature

The house, with an area of 600m², is arranged in three levels, built on a steep slope in Tala.

 

Design Philosophy

The lower level contains the entrance along with the bedrooms, an office, a home cinema, and a wine cellar. The main pool is also located on the main level. The second floor hosts the main areas, which include the living room, dining room and kitchen. The master bedroom, which has a recessed planted roof, occupies the top floor. A wide range of semi-outdoor spaces are placed in various areas and in different orientations, complementing the building and extending its functions towards the exterior spaces throughout the year. The design pays close attention to the coexistence and dialogue with nature, manifesting through sustainable and bioclimatic solutions.

 

Sustainable Approach

The prevailing western winds are cooled down by passing through the shaded garden and water features, picking up water vapor created by the main pool as well as a waterfall from the upper pool. Afterwards, they rise through the two-storey entrance area before returning to the environment through a series of small openings at the top of the space. Perforated aluminum panels shade the large windows from direct sunlight and then retract to maximize the view of the surrounding natural landscape. They are painted on the same off-white color as the building’s walls and create a temporary sense of enclosed volume that disappears when they are open, giving the feeling of a façade that is constantly moving and following the sun.

 

Landscape Design

The engraving pattern resulted from the digital processing of an image taken from the forest and gives the impression and transparency of a vine. After undergoing through a biological process, the wastewater is led to the irrigation and domestic use systems, feeding a natural pond found at the center of a small pavilion. Native species were primarily planted to become seamlessly integrated with the landscape over time, while the careful design ensures the enjoyment of every corner and route within the site. An automation system subtly regulates the residence’s operation consuming almost zero energy. Lighting and music complement the overall spatial experience.