Designed against surface flooding in the region, the back part of this house is placed on a hill, creating the impression that the front part is floating in the air. 

Named El Abrazo House, the 154-square-metre house is located in the wetlands area within the Paraná River Delta, specifically on "El Chirigüe" island along the Lechiguana Stream, in the province of Entre Ríos, Argentina. 

With its linear volume, the house, designed by Mateo Gagliardo, is designed taking into account the challenges that environmental conditions may pose, but its transparent facade offers wide perspectives to all parts of nature.

"This recognized wetlands region is characterized by intermittent surface flooding, creating a hybrid ecosystem between aquatic and terrestrial environments," said Mateo Gagliardo.

"The design decisions were made in response to the flooding, landscape, and lack of services in the area." 

"The project was implemented based on two main axes: The first one (Y-axis) aims to align and create a visual and circulatory connection between the river, the dock, the house gallery, and an existing tree at the back of the terrain," the architect added. 

The second one, called X-axis, is situated in the interior of the house, and uses the gallery as a connecting space between the bedrooms and the social area, fostering a connection with the outside environment and promoting coexistence with the surrounding landscape.

The architect raised the first floor of the house above the ground to prevent potential flooding. The architect added a berm to facilitate access during flooding and simultaneously integrate the house with the terrain, improving accessibility to the interior.

The different spaces of the house were designed considering the level of intimacy and service required for each area. The most private zone includes bathrooms, bedrooms, storage, and a machine room was constructed with steel frame. 

This part also features an exterior cladding of Minionda Cincalum sheets and interior with phenolic panels.

Following this, the entire area designated for social activities is presented as a fully transparent space, aiming to integrate nature indoors and creating a sense of buoyancy through a cantilever surrounded by tree canopies. 

The central space accommodates the gallery, fostering smooth interaction between various areas of the house and the external environment, simultaneously serving as an area for large social gatherings.

The facilities of the residence are fully self-sufficient, meaning they are not connected to any external service networks. Electric power is generated through photovoltaic panels, ensuring a sustainable and independent source. 

The water supply comes directly from the river, undergoing a process of sedimentation and chlorination that makes it suitable for domestic use. 

Additionally, sewage waste is treated through a static system with a biodigester, efficiently converting the waste into organic matter in an environmentally friendly manner.

Site plan

Floor plan

Upper floor plan

Axonometric drawing

Section

Section-2

Elevation

Project facts

Project name: El Abrazo House

Architects: Mateo Gagliardo

Location: Delta Del Rio Parana, Argentina

Area: 154m2

Completion date: 2022

Engineering: Federico Segnarrata

Collaborators: Matias Martinez, Brian Ludueña

All images © Ramiro Sosa.

All drawings © Mateo Gagliardo.

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