The Architect’s House: A Sophisticated Apartment Designed by Alonso De Garay

An Innovative Approach to Family Living

How does an architect conceive and materialize their own home? The Architect’s House provides an answer to this question, presenting a comprehensive architectural concept that is both rational and affective. The apartment is accessed through an elevator, leading to a spacious and inviting living space.

One of the standout features of The Architect’s House is the emphasis on creating separate yet interconnected spaces for both adults and children. The children's area is designed as a self-contained apartment, complete with a play area, TV area, homework area, and two rooms. This unique approach ensures that the children have their own space, while still being under the watchful eye of their parents.

Upon entering the apartment, visitors are greeted by a bar that fosters reunion and gathering. The living and work areas are delineated by floor-to-ceiling windows that open up to a patio with a view of the surrounding woods. Adjacent to the dining room is an indoor vertical garden, bringing a touch of nature into the living space.

The Architect’s House exudes solidity and schematic ordering, with dominant materials such as concrete and wood. The ceilings feature beams and a wooden lattice, which cleverly conceal or reveal a concrete slab, ducts, and a lighting grill, depending on the angle from which they are viewed. The lighting design is indirect, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout the apartment. The flooring is made of whitened oak, adding a touch of elegance to the overall design.

While the overall aesthetic of The Architect’s House is minimalist and concrete-focused, it is not devoid of art and vintage furnishings. Notable pieces include the audiotheque by artist Emilio Chapela and paintings by Damián Ortega in the living room. The selection and placement of furniture and decorative elements were expertly handled by Micaela de Bernardi, with two chairs by master Pierre Jeanneret adding a touch of sophistication.

The Architect’s House is a testament to the architect's attention to detail and commitment to creating a functional and aesthetically pleasing living space. The technical specifications of the design highlight the careful consideration given to materials and systems. The wood ceiling, for example, serves multiple purposes, hiding electrical and fire pipes, providing indirect lighting, and adding a layer of uniformity to the overall complexity of the apartment.

The user experience in The Architect’s House is comfortable and convenient, with all the necessary amenities within easy reach. The open layout of the main living area allows for seamless interaction between the library, TV area, bar, desk, and dining room. Despite the limited space, the architect successfully accommodated all these rooms while maintaining a clean and uncluttered feel.

The Architect’s House is not just a physical space; it is a reflection of the architect's philosophy and craft. The design incorporates symbolic allusions and references to the architect's profession, creating a deeply personal and meaningful living environment.

The Architect’s House, designed by Alonso De Garay, is a testament to the power of architecture to transform spaces and enhance the way we live. It is a harmonious blend of functionality, aesthetics, and innovation, creating a truly unique and inspiring home.

Image Credits: Ignacio Urquiza

Awards and Accolades: The Architect’s House was awarded the Silver A' Design Award in the Interior Space, Retail, and Exhibition Design category in 2015. This prestigious award recognizes the outstanding expertise, innovation, and creativity demonstrated by the design. The Architect’s House stood out for its technical excellence, artistic skill, and ability to evoke positive emotions and wonder.