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Architects Directory 2009

 

González/Larraín Arquitectos

Chile

BIO

The architectural studio González Larraín was only established in 2008, by Santiago-born partners Enrique González and Ignacio Larraín, who met during their architectural training course in the Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile. Even though they find it hard to pinpoint their exact influences and inspirations within the vast realm of contemporary local and global culture, they admire the round shaped, austere and timeless buildings and light-play of architectural duo Luis Izquierdo and Antonia Lehmann, as well as Australian architect Glenn Murcutt’s research into the economy of resources and sustainability.

THE HOUSE

The Jerdes House, which the architects developed for our directory, is a study on one of their existing projects – the family house of a young couple. Aiming for an affordable, flexible and low energy-consumption house in the semi-desert valley site, the pair designed a compact structure organised around two main areas, one for private and one for public functions. The interior layout is flexible and adaptable; while cooking, dining and living areas are in an open plan space, the bedroom's adjacent room is separated by a mobile wall to create a multiple use space. The structure's shape – two wings – visually support this internal division, allowing for big openings for lighting and views.

THE FUTURE

The practice's approach is the result of three main elements: "the place in which the project is inserted, specific clients' requirements and contemporary ways of life". Responding to these general guidelines, their designs are committed to sustainability and each project's relationship with its environment, thorough research for materials according to the funds available and the client’s lifestyle, as well as taking into account the possible future life of the building.

www.gonzalezlarrain.cl