In the heart of Villa La Angostura, Argentina, where ancient Coihue and cinnamon-barked Arrayanes trees stand sentinel over the tranquil shores of Lake Correntoso, a new kind of harmony has taken root. Casa Gallareta, a boutique tourist complex conceived by OJA (Organic & Joyful Architecture), is not merely a collection of cabins; it’s an embodiment of a profound respect for nature, a homecoming, and a masterclass in subtly integrated design.
For Juan Segundo Díaz Dopazo, one half of the OJA duo, this project held a deeply personal resonance. Growing up amidst the raw beauty of Patagonia, the call of its untouched landscapes was always strong. His architectural journey, which took him to Buenos Aires where he met his partner María Ayelén Olivieri Martinez, ultimately led him back to his roots. Little did he know that his return would involve crafting a sanctuary within an Arrayanes forest for his own parents.
The challenge was significant: to create a 250 m² tourist complex on a steep, tree-laden slope, offering breathtaking views and direct lake access, without disturbing the pristine environment. OJA’s response was ingenious: a series of modular “landscape cabins” designed not as intrusions, but as organic extensions of the forest itself.
These aren’t cookie-cutter accommodations. While sharing a common architectural language, each cabin possesses subtle variations, granting it a unique identity within the ensemble. They are carefully nestled within natural clearings, a deliberate act of preservation that ensured not a single tree was felled. This core principle – an architecture that coexists harmoniously with the forest – permeates every aspect of the design.
Stepping inside these compact structures is to enter a captivating spatial experience. The architects masterfully blurred the lines between interior and exterior. Each unit unfolds as a single open space, cleverly split across half-levels and punctuated by expansive, strategically placed windows. These aren’t mere openings; they are framed vistas that draw the surrounding Myrtle canopy inwards, offering both a sense of privacy and an immersive connection with nature. This thoughtful design also fosters a gentle intimacy between the individual cabins and the communal heart of the complex.
Even the practical spaces are imbued with a sense of considered luxury. The bathrooms are generously proportioned, havens of tranquility. The pièce de résistance? The largest cabin boasts a freestanding tub positioned to offer panoramic views, inviting guests to soak in warmth while witnessing the magical dance of Patagonian snowfall.
The demanding topography and dense vegetation presented logistical hurdles that OJA met with clever solutions. Opting for dry construction atop robust reinforced concrete foundations demanded meticulous planning and execution. This approach minimized site impact and ensured efficiency in a challenging environment.
Externally, the cabins present a rugged yet refined aesthetic. Their rocky morphology is cloaked in eucalyptus wood treated with Shou Sugi Ban, an ancient Japanese technique of charring the wood’s surface. This not only imparts a striking, textured finish but also enhances the wood’s water resistance, fire retardancy, sustainability, and longevity. The resulting blackened timber acts as a dramatic backdrop, accentuating the vibrant greens of the forest and the crisp whites of winter snow. Accents of warm-toned Lapacho wood, sleek black metalwork, and raw exposed concrete provide complementary textures and hues, subtly echoing the surrounding natural palette.
Inside, a sense of calm and spaciousness prevails, largely thanks to the dominant use of Guatambú wood. Its light color and knot-free quality create a striking contrast with the dark exterior, amplifying the feeling of openness. Used in large panels, it offers both aesthetic elegance and construction efficiency.
The commitment to a cohesive design extends to the interior furnishings, all crafted from the same Guatambú wood. This creates a clean, monolithic aesthetic, where furniture seamlessly merges with the walls, reinforcing a minimalist and uncluttered environment that allows the beauty of the natural surroundings to take center stage.
Casa Gallareta is more than just a place to stay; it’s an experience that resonates deeply with those who visit. It’s a testament to the power of thoughtful design to not only coexist with nature but to enhance it. The accolades and recognition it has garnered on the international stage are a testament to OJA’s vision and their ability to translate a personal connection to the land into a truly exceptional architectural achievement – a whisper of human artistry within the ancient embrace of the Arrayanes forest.