Matanzas, Navidad, Chile
“We were looking for a way to both ‘dominate’ the steep slope, and blend in with the surrounding nature,” states the architects.
Felipe Croxatto Viviani and Nicolás Opazo Marchetti from the Santiago-based firm of Croxatto & Opazo Arquitectos designed two reclaimed oak holiday homes set high on a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Navidad, Chile.
The architects adapted the plans to make the most of the surrounding vistas and to protect the interiors from the weather.
The cabins are constructed on platforms supported by a hidden structure made from pressure-impregnated wood.
The two buildings named after bird species native to the region–La Loica and La Tagua–are sited approximately 80m above sea level, on steeply angled terrain, overlooking the beach below.
Each structure features the main living space–kitchen, dining, and sitting areas–that looks out through carefully framed, large expanses of glass, to far-reaching seascape views (sea lions frequent these parts, and they are often seen from the cabins).
A ladder leads up to a bedroom, and each structure has a north-facing terrace, which, with its overhang, helps to protect the structure from rain, harsh sun, and strong winds.
The mainframe is made of pine, treated, and dried for durability, while the exterior cladding is formed from treated, reclaimed oak sleepers and the interior features recycled pine board.
Local labor and materials were used in the construction, insulation was carefully planned to preserve heat when it’s cold, and solar-powered outdoor lighting helps reduce overall energy consumption.
Drawing on the natural landscape, these twin cabins offer a dreamy escape but are also humble, respectful, and functional.
“The shape responds to the views towards the different places we wanted to show from the inside and how to relate the buildings to the environment,” co-founder Felipe Croxatto.
“Both cabins were built as small cubes, with their faces opened to seek the views and protect them from the strong wind.”
Inside, the cabins have been lined with recycled wood which acts as thermal insulation.
“In the interior, we used pine wood treated with Osmo Coating for sun and dust protection,” Croxatto continues.
The dining rooms, bathrooms, and kitchens in both cabins are located on the ground floor and feature furniture in the same wood as the interior to help maximize the space.
“The unified interior space, finished by light wood, makes the buildings feel bigger and more comfortable than it seems.”
Large windows in the social spaces reinforce the feel of being in a lookout tower and open the cabins up to the ocean views.
The bedrooms (one in La Loica and two in La Tagua) are located on the upper level and are accessed by ladders.
The bedroom is connected with the rest of the space through the double-height living room, a disposition that seeks to frame and direct the view, pointing towards the wooded hills to the south, and the rocky Lobera to the north.
Both cabins are connected to the electric grid, but outdoor lights are powered by solar energy.
Water is delivered by a water truck.
Project: Cabañas Maralto
Architects: Croxatto & Opazo Arquitectos
Client: Private
Photographers: Cristobal Palma
