MY WAY

Guaso, Ainsa, 2018

A self-sufficient rural house in Sobrarbe, Aragon near Aínsa.

This project continues with the studio’s work of investigating and developing contemporary solutions to sustainable building in a rural setting. Using experience gained from previous projects, local stone, timber, light and natural materials once again take centre stage.

Both the size and the exterior form of the building were restricted by the building licence from the outset. However, design of the interior layout, structure and materials were all completely re-worked as well as the design of the openings on the facades and some exterior modifications.

The connection with nature, renewable energy and simplicity were of particular importance in the requirement for a low impact house, easy to run and maintain.

The east facing site determined the orientation of the house which is focused on bringing in the views and light. Exterior spaces were created on each side of the house; functional, access, private and social, and the exterior arches introduce softer forms on the facades echoing the traditional local architecture.

In the interior, the open timber staircase creates a vertical connection between the public, private and working areas- this vertical space brings light deep into the house and generates secondary spaces for storage and a home office. The character and design of each private space was considered in relation to its user. Organic forms in the interior reflect the mountains and the landscape and create more contemplative, relaxing corners.

Feedback from the client demonstrates the importance of built in flexibility since it is reported that the spaces are often used in unpredicted ways.