The details of minimalist architecture
The new Schüco LivIng Free Light system is a PVC window frame that minimises the exposed section of the window frame, enlarges the glazed area and creates an elevation with an essential character.
Considering the rich biodiversity in the site, the architects designed a structure that would not be excessively invasive, leaving a light light footprint on the topography of the landscape. The finalised structure evokes the idea of a bridge, in the way that it arranges rooms linearly, suspended on four concrete pillars, seeking to maximise the entrance of daylight and to create wide, open spaces. Large glass façades seek to frame the island's ever-changing climate, while wooden-clad ceilings of larch in the central spaces are combined with sheltered exterior spaces.
Passive design strategies were used in order to optimise the use of energy in the hotel, such as harnessing the sun's heat trapped in concrete floors, promoting radiant heat cross ventilation to keep cool and to ventilate common spaces, and using eaves to prevent the entry of the sun during the summer. The architects also carefully designed the orientation and configuration of openings and windows to take advantage of natural light, avoid rain water, and maintain heat control, employing skylights at crucial points. These were combined with efficient mechanical systems and insulation.
The structure makes comprehensive use of pure geometry in its skin and interior partitions, cladding the volume's skin in wood. Here, Mobil Architects used parametric design to calculate optimal shape of each larch shingle and its positioning, and used artisanal labour to craft and install the wooden cladding.
Architects: Mobil Architects — Sebastian Morandé, Patricio Browne, Antonio Lipthay
Architect collaborator: Cristian Palma
Location: Rilan Peninsula, Chiloé, Lakes Region, Chile
Client: Private
Structural Engineer: Rodrigo Mujica, VMB-engineering
Construction: Ruben Paredes
Interior Design: Ignacio Yrarrazaval
Energy efficiency and Façade Engineering: Esteban Undurraga, Juan Cristobal Perez
HVAC: Juan Cristobal Perez
Parametric Design: Lyon Bosch
Lighting Project: Monica Perez & Associates
Materials: Reinforced concrete and metal carpentry, tile and wood cladding
Surface area: 6 hectares
Built area: 1,250 square metres
Completion: 2011
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Eliminating thermal bridges for energy efficiency
DeFaveri's thermal insulating monoblocks eliminate thermal bridges in the window hole, improve acoustic insulation and protect against air infiltration and humidity.