HOUSE 2C

Author: Jose Granda
Studio: Baquio Arquitectura
Location: Quito, Ecuador
Design Year: 2022
Completion Year: 2023
Land Area: 438m2
Construction Area: 231m2
Photography Credit: Punto Dos Studio
2C HOUSE
The project is a single-family house in an urban context in the valleys of the city of Quito, Ecuador. The proposal is based on two fundamental decisions: on one hand, to establish a harmonious relationship with an adjacent constructed project, and on the other hand, to promote privacy for spaces that do not require connection. To achieve this, both decisions are resolved through two identical blocks divided by a connecting axis that opens towards the other project. Each block uses a "C" shape to enclose the space it does not wish to face. This allows zoning the service area towards the "C" shapes, creating duality between the blocks. Hence the name 2C.
The ground floor of Block A houses the common and social areas for the family, while the ground floor of Block B accommodates a bedroom directly related to the adjacent project, along with a collective wet area. The upper floor of Block A houses the main bedroom with no relation to the adjacent project, and Block B has two rooms directly connected to the neighboring project (grandparents – grandchildren relation). Finally, vertical circulation is resolved within the connecting axis.
As for its materiality, the project stands out for its focus on wood. This choice is not only based on the numerous advantages wood offers, such as versatility, strength, and its environmentally friendly nature, but it also seeks to rescue values inherent in traditional architecture, especially influenced by Japanese aesthetics.
The main structure of the project is designed using laminated pine wood. The composite columns and beams are carefully arranged to achieve structural balance and allow for the creation of 1.20-meter overhangs. These overhangs not only complement the design but also offer valuable protection to the wood, acting as a barrier against rain and sunlight. As for the facades, the choice of palm wood has significant advantages. The porous nature of this wood allows for better absorption of the applied lacquer, which contributes to prolonging its lifespan and minimizing the required maintenance. Finally, metal serves as a complementary material to resolve joints, floor finishes, and solutions that contribute to the protection of the wood.