Casa en el Bosque | Gabriel Rivera Arquitectos

Casa en el Bosque, designed by Gabriel Rivera Arquitectos, is nestled around a forest of acacias and eucalyptus trees. It adapts to the terrain's topography while respecting the surrounding nature. From its conception, the architectural team aimed to create a home that not only met the practical needs of a young family with two small children but also stimulated the senses and the mind, becoming an inspiring space.

Located in the Monteserrín sector of Quito, Ecuador, the house sits on a lot with a double negative slope. Therefore, an extensive topographical study was conducted to efficiently implement the project, minimizing earth movements and respecting the natural elements. The result is a seamless integration that harmonizes with the original terrain.

Nature undoubtedly served as the starting point for this project's design. From the outset, preserving all existing natural elements was considered, resulting in architecture that blends seamlessly with the environment. The forest, home to various bird species and wildlife, envelops the dwelling, providing a sense of security and protection against the valley's strong winds. This natural integration extends beyond the exterior, as several architectural elements inside draw inspiration from organic forest forms, allowing for fluid spaces and pathways.

Visitors are welcomed by a gently winding stone wall that guides them to the pedestrian entrance, flanked by two acacia trees breaking through the covering slab. Upon opening the door, they encounter a lush garden populated by a variety of species, with the house in the background. The stairs, following the natural terrain, invite descent to the main entrance. The ground floor houses social areas, including a double-height living-dining room and a kitchen that seamlessly integrates with the covered exterior porch, expanding the interior living space and connecting it to the garden and forest. On the second floor, the bedrooms offer panoramic views of the forest and surrounding valley. Additionally, two versatile spaces integrate into the double-height area via sliding doors, providing flexible areas for work, exercise, and relaxation. The third floor accommodates services and parking. Throughout the design process, aspects such as natural light integration, fluid circulation, spatial relationships, visual connections to the outdoors, and comfort were carefully considered.

Casa en el Bosque exemplifies Gabriel Rivera Arquitectos' commitment to creating spaces that enrich the lives of their inhabitants. Through a unique combination of architectural knowledge, construction details, respect for nature, and artistic sensibility, this project stands as an inspiring example of how architecture can positively influence the happiness of a home.

Gabriel Rivera Arquitectos Team: Gabriel Rivera, Belén Andrade, Diego Rivera, Danilo Yambay, Francisco Balarezo, Pedro Granizo, Margarita Quishpe.

Photography: JAG Studio I Chris Falcony