Etchegoyen House: A Weekend Retreat Among the Trees
A minimalist weekend house in Argentina blending seamlessly with nature.
1Project Overview
The Etchegoyen House is a 90-square-meter weekend retreat designed to harmonize with Argentina's natural landscape. Completed in 2025 by the team led by Agustin Wasinger and Felipe Barletti, the structure is nestled among existing trees. Wood products from Gastaldi and Maderera Ballester were used to emphasize natural materials. Photographs by Luis Barandiaran document the building's integration with its surroundings.
2Architectural Approach
The architects treated the existing landscape as an integral part of the architecture. Open-plan design blurs boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, creating continuous interaction with nature. Vertical wood cladding establishes visual continuity with the surrounding tree canopy. The project combines minimalist aesthetics with functional requirements in a balanced composition.
3Location and Context
Located in the town of Etchegoyen, the house presents a contemporary interpretation of Argentina's rural architectural traditions. Site selection carefully preserved existing trees. The climate-responsive design creates cool shaded areas in summer while maximizing solar heat gain in winter. Natural ventilation systems contribute to energy efficiency goals.
4Material Selection
The project predominantly uses locally sourced wood materials. Custom wood paneling by Gastaldi and structural elements by Maderera Ballester give the building its natural character. Sustainable sourcing of materials was prioritized. Wood's insulation properties help minimize the structure's energy consumption.
5Interior Solutions
The 90-square-meter compact space offers functional living areas. Open-plan living, kitchen and dining areas create seamless flow. Bedrooms and service spaces are positioned for privacy. High ceilings and large window openings make spaces feel airy. Local craftsmanship details add unique character to interiors.
6Sustainability Features
The project employs passive sustainable strategies. Principles of natural ventilation and daylight optimization are implemented. Rainwater harvesting reduces mains water use for garden irrigation. Local materials minimize transportation-related carbon footprint. Energy-efficient window systems prevent heat loss.
7Architectural Details
Vertical wood slats on the facade create shifting shadow patterns throughout the day. Terrace areas are positioned under trees to utilize natural shade. Prefabricated elements in the structural system reduced construction time. Minimalist steel profiles were chosen for door and window details.
8Design Significance
The Etchegoyen House serves as an exemplary model for creating minimal, sustainable dwellings in rural settings. Its nature-respecting design approach proves contemporary architecture can coexist harmoniously with ecology. The project highlights the importance of material selection and local context in small-scale housing. The architects' dialogue with nature provides inspiration for future projects.
Original article: ArchDaily Global — Etchegoyen Evi: Ağaçlar Arasında Bir Hafta Sonu Kaçamağı