A Woodsy Retreat in Chile

SGGB Architects designed the CBI House in Puerto Varas, Chile where the biggest challenge was thermal optimization. Spread out over three floors, the home was built within a clearing on a plot of land with ample vegetation. The clearing has a 15% slope and had much less plant life so it was the perfect spot to build the house. It also made way for the most amount of natural light since there were less trees right there.

Another requirement was to maximize the natural light so there are wide openings to let the light pour in. They also made a point to do as little to impact the earth as possible which is why they chose the spot they did.

The main floor is an open, public space that houses the kitchen, dining, and living room. The second, more private level contains the bedrooms, and the small, top level is a bureau-hatch.

Due to the high amounts of rainfall, the structure sits above the ground heightened by a system of wood and concrete.

This side of the house opens up with large expanses of windows and a deck that runs the length of the house.

The interior has a very Scandinavian feel with lots of white and black details, and wood accents.

The windows frame the green vegetation outside reminding you you’re in the woods.

A hallway is kept light with the help of the floor-to-ceiling windows that span the length of it.

Strategically placed skylights add to the home’s brightness.

Photos © Sebastian Guevara Sinclair.