RP02 House: Industrialized Systems Meet Residential Design
A Brazilian home built with large-scale construction techniques
1Unconventional Residential Approach
The RP02 House challenges conventional residential construction by applying industrialized building systems typically reserved for large-scale projects. Architect Pedro Cornetta led the team in creating this 250 m² home in Ribeirão Preto, Brazil, completed in 2022. The design incorporates precast concrete, steel framing, and prestressed hollow-core slabs, demonstrating how commercial construction methods can adapt to residential spaces while maintaining aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
2Material Innovation
This project combines multiple advanced materials including insulated metal panels and drywall partitions in its construction. The use of precast concrete elements allowed for faster assembly on site, while steel framing provided structural flexibility. These material choices reflect a growing trend in architecture where industrial solutions meet residential needs, offering both time efficiency and design possibilities that traditional methods might limit.
3Structural Engineering
Marka Pré-Fabricados and Grupo RP handled the structural engineering, implementing prefabricated components that reduced construction time. The team overcame challenges of adapting large-scale techniques to a residential context, particularly in ensuring the home's thermal comfort and acoustic performance. Their solutions included specialized joint detailing between different material systems to prevent thermal bridges and ensure durability in Brazil's climate.
4Installation Systems
Latar Engenharia managed the installations, integrating electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems within the industrialized construction framework. This required careful coordination with the prefabricated elements during the design phase. The team developed innovative solutions for concealing services within the structural systems while maintaining accessibility for maintenance, demonstrating how technical infrastructure can coexist with aesthetic design in prefab architecture.
5Design Team Collaboration
The project team including Luigi Borges and Eduardo Jodar worked closely with engineering consultants to realize this innovative home. Their collaborative process involved continuous feedback between architects and engineers from concept through completion. This interdisciplinary approach was crucial for solving the unique challenges posed by combining residential design with commercial construction methodologies.
6Photographic Documentation
Pedro Cornetta's photographs capture the home's clean lines and material textures, highlighting how industrial components create residential warmth. The images emphasize the play of light on concrete surfaces and the precision of prefabricated elements. This visual documentation serves as an important case study for architects considering similar construction approaches in residential projects.
7Project Location Context
Situated in Jardim Nova Aliança Sul, Ribeirão Preto, the house responds to its Brazilian context while employing global construction technologies. The design considers local climate conditions, using materials that perform well in tropical temperatures. Its success demonstrates how industrialized systems can adapt to specific regional requirements while maintaining construction efficiency and design quality.
8Architectural Significance
RP02 House represents an important evolution in residential architecture, proving that industrialized construction can achieve both efficiency and design excellence. Completed in 2022 and published internationally in 2026, it serves as inspiration for architects exploring alternative construction methods. The project expands possibilities for sustainable, cost-effective housing solutions without compromising aesthetic or functional quality.
Original article: ArchDaily Global — RP02 House: Industrialized Systems Meet Residential Design