Cornetta Arquitetura's Eco-Conscious Prefabricated Retreat in Brazil's Atlantic Forest
In a remarkable display of architectural ingenuity and ecological responsibility, Cornetta Arquitetura has unveiled Casa Guapuruvus, a stunning prefabricated holiday residence nestled within the lush Atlantic Forest near S\u00e3o Roque, west of S\u00e3o Paulo. This distinctive concrete and timber dwelling serves as a powerful testament to conservation, meticulously crafted to protect the vibrant native ecosystem it inhabits. Designed with minimal environmental disruption in mind, the structure is elevated above the ground and positioned in a section of the forest that had already experienced some degradation, thereby minimizing its footprint and safeguarding local wildlife. This innovative project embodies a modern vision for living that harmonizes with nature, showcasing how advanced design and sustainable practices can coexist to create both elegant and responsible architectural solutions.
The guiding principle behind Casa Guapuruvus, as articulated by Cornetta Arquitetura founder Pedro Cornetta, was profound environmental preservation. He emphasized that the project's essence lies not in superficial gestures but in a genuine commitment to safeguarding existing natural elements. The house's strategic placement and elevated construction underscore this philosophy, ensuring minimal interference with the forest's delicate balance. Its modular design is another key feature, allowing the structure to be neatly divided into two distinct halves along a central axis. One side hosts expansive living areas, which can be fully opened to the surrounding nature through sliding glass panels, effectively transforming into a vast, sheltered outdoor space. The other half is dedicated to private quarters, comprising two spacious corner bedrooms and smaller rooms, including bunk beds and bathrooms, thoughtfully integrated within the layout.
The structural integrity of Casa Guapuruvus is rooted in its prefabricated components, which include a blend of glued-laminated timber, nailed-laminated timber, robust black metal columns, and lightweight steel-framed walls. This combination ensures durability while facilitating efficient construction. Beneath the western section of the house, a concrete and masonry foundation discreetly houses service and utility areas, also forming the retaining walls for the adjacent swimming pool. A striking feature of the interior is a partition wall crafted from pine wood, treated using the traditional Japanese shou sugi ban charring technique. This charred timber wall not only creates a visual divider between public and private zones but also ingeniously conceals doorways and storage units, contributing to a seamless aesthetic.
Inside, the design embraces a refined material palette, featuring warm wood tones, supple tanned leather, and sleek black and stainless steel accents. A substantial dining table, fashioned from reclaimed peroba rosa wood, extends gracefully from the stone-topped kitchen island, fostering a central gathering point for residents and guests. Landscape architect Nick Sabey played a pivotal role in reintroducing indigenous plant species to previously disturbed areas of the site. His efforts were carefully executed to soften the architectural lines without encroaching upon the natural ecosystem, further reinforcing the project's dedication to environmental integrity.
As night falls, Casa Guapuruvus undergoes a captivating transformation. Thoughtful lighting design illuminates the wooden ceiling, causing the transparent house to radiate a soft glow within the dense vegetation. Cornetta Arquitetura observes that during the day, the surrounding flora gently integrates the house into its environment. However, after dark, the structure becomes a focal point, brilliantly showcasing architecture's multifaceted role in its ongoing dialogue with the natural world. This project stands as an exceptional example of modern living in harmony with nature, setting a high standard for sustainable design and ecological stewardship.