Country House in Argentina

The Mach House is a country house for permanent residence designed by the studio Luciano Kruk, located in Masivi, on the northern outskirts of Greater Buenos Aires, Argentina.

The construction layout with nearly solid side walls was developed according to the studio's strategy, opening up the building from the front and back, thus creating additional views between the street and garden in depth. Various living zones were arranged on an orthogonal grid, with the central module placed in an open inner space featuring a reflecting pool, undeveloped land, and untouched vegetation. Natural light enters this open module through a roof opening, and the water surface inside reflects sunlight, producing various lighting effects throughout the day, bringing a calm and intimate atmosphere into the interior.

The entire design is realized in anodized aluminum in dark bronze and double glazing. For added privacy, the pool separates the house from the street, and aquatic plants are planted beneath the bedroom window. In its open form, large glazed sliding panels at the back connect internal spaces with a deck extending beyond the living area into green openness.

Partially enclosed zones in front of transparent planes regulate both direct solar exposure and heat output. In addition to the passive solar control built into the architecture, an air conditioning system and radiant floor heating are installed.

The rear part of the structure boasts a panoramic view over a lushly grown forest. Considering that landscapes may change over time due to urban development, a small green space with a reflecting pool was created.

The sense of security provided by the stony naturalness of concrete and its monolithic character enhances the house's atmosphere and perception of light effects, air, and scent.

Photos: Daniela Mac Adden