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Situated on the outskirts of Quito, Ecuador, amidst a mountainous landscape, lies the Bread Oven House, a collaborative creation by ERDC Arquitectos and Taller General. Positioned on the Auqui hill, overlooking the city, this secluded yet accessible site offers a unique juxtaposition of rural tranquility and urban proximity.
Contextual Design Approach
Despite its close proximity to the bustling city center, the site maintains its rural charm, surrounded by lush greenery, including eucalyptus trees, pines, orchards, and wildlife. The architects strategically position the project to maximize its connection to the natural terrain, capitalizing on the sloped topography and expansive views.
Harnessing Material Strength
Brick emerges as the primary building material, chosen for its exceptional thermal properties and structural resilience. This decision ensures optimal thermal comfort within the compact 48-square-meter structure while minimizing environmental impact. The brick walls provide both thermal mass and structural support, while a reinforced concrete layer strengthens the vaulted roof, ensuring stability in seismic zones.
Cozy and Minimalist Living
The design ethos revolves around creating a cozy and minimalist living space, accommodating future expansions with planned stages of construction. Despite its modest size, the house offers three distinct interior levels, housing essential functions such as entrance, living, dining, kitchen, bedroom, and study areas. The layout prioritizes panoramic views of the city and countryside, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living.
Homogeneous Envelope for Adaptability
The construction methodology yields a cohesive envelope, allowing for flexibility and adaptability in interior interventions. The homogeneity of the structure echoes the simplicity and functionality of a traditional bread oven, embodying a harmonious fusion of form and function within its natural setting.
Conclusion: A Symbol of Harmonious Living
The Bread Oven House stands as a testament to the symbiotic relationship between architecture and nature. By seamlessly integrating with its surroundings and prioritizing sustainable materials and design principles, ERDC Arquitectos and Taller General have created a sanctuary that epitomizes harmonious living in the heart of Ecuador’s mountainous landscape.
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