La Cima: A Sustainable and Harmonious Home in the Sierra Nevada

Integrating Nature and Architecture in Colombia

La Cima is a 340 m2 house located in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia. It stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of architecture and nature. The design aims to minimize its intervention in the terrain, preserving the natural beauty of the surroundings. By using materials of natural origin and incorporating characteristic species of the area in its landscaping design, La Cima seamlessly integrates with its environment.

What sets La Cima apart is its commitment to sustainability, airtightness, and self-sufficiency. The house was strategically designed to take advantage of the region's climate and sunlight, ensuring optimal orientation and energy efficiency. Natural phenomena such as the greenhouse effect and the Venturi effect were utilized to minimize energy consumption. Additionally, the use of solar panels on the roof further enhances the house's energy efficiency.

The construction of La Cima prioritizes local and low-maintenance materials. The facade and driveways feature natural stone, while the interior cladding showcases teak wood. The structural system incorporates environmentally conscious materials such as PVC and architectural concrete, which are recyclable and have minimal environmental footprints. This commitment to sustainable materials and manufacturing processes ensures that La Cima leaves a minimal impact on the environment.

La Cima is designed to provide a seamless interaction between the interior and the exterior. The glass facade allows for breathtaking views of the Sierra Nevada mountains to the east and the city and sea to the northwest. The natural slope of the land creates a double-height area that offers panoramic views of the landscape. Access to the second level is provided by a striking metallic helical staircase, leading to the intimate areas of the house.

The design and construction of La Cima began in January 2021 and were completed in June 2021. The project received the Bronze A' Design Award in Architecture, Building, and Structure Design in 2022, recognizing its outstanding creativity and commitment to sustainable practices. La Cima stands as a testament to the possibilities of blending architecture with nature, creating a harmonious and sustainable living space in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta.