The "M" House

Samborondon, Ecuador

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The "M" House

Samborondon, Ecuador

Firm

Jannina Cabal Arquitectos

Type

Residential › Private House

YEAR

2012

SIZE

3000 sqft - 5000 sqft

Implanted North to South on a corner plot of 16,361 ft2 with a construction area of 3,767 ft2 , the “M” house, was designed as a one story building composed of asymmetrical interlocking forms both solids and voids. Massive volumes of stucco and stone against floor to ceiling window panels, gives the project a sense of transparency, while making the outside feel as much a part of the house as it's open interiors.

The asymmetrical “H” floor plan scheme clearly separates the social area and the private area by placing the swimming pool vertically between both spaces. The lateral entryway to the house is marked by a large portico, creating a entrance sequence marked by water mirrors that direct visuals to the indoor gardens and main patio. Access to the bedrooms is given by a pivoting wood door over 3 meters tall, lost in the wall as decorative wall panel when closed. The glass hallway leads to a small family room from which the bedrooms are distributed. The living room and dining room are placed in a story and a half glass pavilion that opens up through sliding doors to the back yard. The exposed black metallic structure can be appreciated throughout the project, not only as a tool for defining spaces and window frames, but also as reflected ceiling details chasing lighting rails. The house as a whole explores uninterrupted views of the backyard, which allows beautiful visuals and natural lit spaces.

The tropical climate of the area was a defining factor for determining the design parameters of this residence. In order to protect the home from the strong equatorial sun and seasonal rains, without compromising natural lighting and ventilation, various architectural elements were implemented in the design to serve this specific function. Pergolas, porches, double glazed windows and high tilted ceilings as well as pitched roofs with pronounced wood covered eaves, protect the house from the damaging sun and allows for naturally ventilated spaces.

A clear black, gray and white color scheme is utilized throughout the project, which creates perfect contrast with the natural elements of its surroundings; wood decking, green landscape and various water features. The sum of all these different components both architectural and natural allow this project to fuse indoor and outdoor spaces which completely connect the residence with its environment.