In the Foothills of the Andes, a Ceramicist Fires Up a Creative Retreat

Hebra Arquitectos uses charred timber and local stone to craft an elemental home that blends into its rugged setting.

In the Foothills of the Andes, a Ceramicist Fires Up a Creative Retreat

Hebra Arquitectos uses charred timber and local stone to craft an elemental home that blends into its rugged setting.

When Hebra Arquitectos set about building this home in the foothills of the Andes, they knew that its success would hinge upon capturing the beauty of the land. 

The homeowner is a multidisciplinary artist who sculpts metal and shapes stoneware, and she sought to build a vacation home where she could work and gather with her loved ones in nature. "She wanted this to be a place where she could invite friends to rest, craft, cook, and hike together," says architect and founding partner Simon Perez. "Her plan was to live in nature, and work on ceramics."

The 3,444-square-foot home is set in a rural area near Futrono, Chile. 

Photo by Marcos Zegers

The site is located where the peaks of the Andes flow into hills covered in Chilean myrtle and Patagonian oak trees. "It’s a rural area just east of Lago Ranco," Perez says. 

Perez and his client agreed that the focus of the home should be on the surrounding nature, therefore it's easy to get outside.

Perez and his client agreed that the focus of the home should be on the surrounding nature, so the interiors open wide to the outdoors. 

Photo by Marcos Zegers

Eucalyptus floors contrast the Patagonian oak on the ceiling in the kitchen, and all-white details provide a bright yet neutral contrast.

Eucalyptus floors contrast with the Patagonian oak ceiling and lower kitchen cabinetry. White details pop amidst the wood-clad interior. 

Photo by Marcos Zegers

See the full story on Dwell.com: In the Foothills of the Andes, a Ceramicist Fires Up a Creative Retreat
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