Architectural Cases

The Nova Despensa project represents a significant shift in retail philosophy, having been meticulously developed over two years in close collaboration with its visionary clients. This initiative by Solo Arquitetos aimed to redefine the traditional bulk store concept, focusing on a model that promotes mindful consumption, reduces ecological footprints, and yet ensures an extensive selection of premium products. The result is a pioneering retail space in Batel, Brazil, completed in 2021, that seamlessly integrates environmental consciousness with a diverse and high-quality product offering.

This innovative 95 m² store emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices within the retail sector. By designing a space that encourages customers to make environmentally responsible choices, Solo Arquitetos has created a benchmark for future retail environments. The thoughtful integration of design and purpose in Nova Despensa reflects a growing demand for businesses that align with consumer values of sustainability and ethical sourcing, distinguishing it as a forward-thinking model in the contemporary marketplace.

Transforming Retail: The Vision Behind Nova Despensa

Solo Arquitetos embarked on an extensive two-year journey with their clients to conceptualize and realize Nova Despensa, a distinctive bulk store that challenges conventional retail paradigms. The core objective was to establish a retail environment fostering conscious consumption and minimizing environmental impact, without compromising on product diversity and quality. This collaborative effort resulted in a unique 95 m² store in Batel, Brazil, completed in 2021, which serves as a testament to sustainable retail design.

The vision for Nova Despensa was rooted in a desire to offer an alternative shopping experience where customers could engage with products more thoughtfully. From its inception, the project aimed to create a space that not only provides an extensive array of goods but also educates and encourages consumers to adopt more sustainable purchasing habits. Solo Arquitetos’ design approach focused on creating an inviting and functional space that underscores the store's commitment to ecological responsibility and high-quality offerings.

Sustainable Design and Community Impact

The architectural design of Nova Despensa, led by Solo Arquitetos, is a physical manifestation of its sustainable ethos, completed in 2021. Spanning 95 square meters in Batel, Brazil, the store is crafted to support a more mindful approach to shopping, offering a wide array of products while upholding rigorous standards for environmental consideration. This project underscores a commitment to sustainability, influencing both the store's operational model and its aesthetic.

Nova Despensa is more than just a retail outlet; it's a community hub that actively champions reduced waste and supports ethical consumption. By integrating sustainable practices into its very fabric, the store aims to inspire customers to embrace a lifestyle that is both environmentally friendly and socially responsible. This thoughtful fusion of design and purpose positions Nova Despensa as a leader in the movement towards a more sustainable and conscious retail future.

In the heart of Argentina's Entre Ríos province, within the unique Delta Entrerriano ecosystem, architect Martina Lew has crafted a remarkable residence that seamlessly blends into its natural surroundings. This 90-square-meter dwelling, completed in 2025, is a testament to sensitive architectural design, responding thoughtfully to the area's characteristic low-lying islands, flood plains, and the intricate network of waterways branching off the Martínez Stream.

The project's conceptualization was deeply informed by the specific environmental conditions of Villa Paranacito. The design team focused on creating a structure that not only coexists with the dynamic river system but also enhances the living experience by embracing the panoramic views and the rich biodiversity of the riverside vegetation. This commitment to site-specific design is evident in every aspect of the house, from its material palette to its spatial organization.

A key aspect of this house's construction is its emphasis on natural materials, particularly wood, which is extensively used throughout the project. This choice not only contributes to the aesthetic integration of the home with its forested environment but also aligns with principles of sustainable building. The wooden elements provide warmth and texture, contrasting beautifully with the serene watery landscape.

The interior layout of the Villa Paranacito house prioritizes openness and connectivity with the outdoors. Large windows and strategically placed openings blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing natural light to flood the interiors and offering residents constant visual engagement with the surrounding delta. This design philosophy fosters a sense of tranquility and immersion in nature, making the home a true retreat.

The architectural solutions employed by Martina Lew demonstrate an innovative approach to building in a flood-prone region. The structure is thoughtfully elevated to mitigate flood risks, while still maintaining a visual and experiential connection to the ground level. This clever engineering ensures the resilience of the home while preserving its aesthetic appeal and its relationship to the unique delta landscape.

Martina Lew's design in Villa Paranacito represents a harmonious fusion of contemporary architecture and the distinct character of the Argentine delta. It stands as an exemplar of how residential architecture can respectfully and ingeniously respond to challenging natural environments, creating a sanctuary that is both functional and deeply rooted in its place.