This innovative project, led by Morsa Taller and Emilia Pascarelli, is driven by a desire for regeneration that goes beyond just physical space. It aims to revitalize not only the workshop but also the cultural aspect of the community. Situated in Villa Martelli, a diverse suburb in Buenos Aires, the project seamlessly integrates with the existing workshop on a narrow lot. The architects, mindful of the limited budget, decided to construct a two-story building that sits atop the original structure. This addition overlooks an internal courtyard, acting as a central hub between the buildings.
To preserve the natural surroundings, a unique metal structure was incorporated, allowing an avocado tree to grow through the roof, adding a touch of nature to the design. The ground floor houses a versatile communal space that connects directly to the garden, complete with essential amenities, a kitchen, and a dining area that extends into the workshop. On the first floor, a showroom showcases the eco-sustainable design objects produced, alongside an office and a meeting area that offer stunning views of the terrace.
The workshop’s raw and industrial aesthetic, achieved through the use of industrial materials, reflects its purpose and adds a touch of character. Furthermore, the building’s adaptability and flexibility, akin to a living organism, cater to the ever-changing needs of its users. This concept draws inspiration from the frugal yet poetic approach of Lacaton&Vassal‘s architecture, exemplified by Maison Latapie.
The white-painted metal beams and pillars form the foundational structure, engaging in a conversation with a delicate outer layer composed of panels that can fold or slide. These panels are crafted from a variety of materials including fabric, glass, vegetation, and polycarbonate. Depending on their arrangement, they provide varying degrees of shade, facilitate natural ventilation, and offer carefully framed views of the surrounding neighborhood.
Internally, the open-plan multifunctional spaces are bathed in abundant natural light, creating an inviting and uncluttered ambiance. The furnishings within these spaces are both essential and modular, allowing for adaptability. For instance, display shelves can be adjusted to accommodate objects of different sizes. The flooring and paneling feature unfinished wood, adding a touch of warmth, while the silvered ceilings evoke the appearance of plastic packaging reels.