Imagine a home that seems to float among the trees, a modern marvel designed to embrace the wild beauty of a Spanish pine forest! This isn't just any house; it's a testament to how architecture can dance with nature, rather than conquer it.
Nestled on the stunning coast of Tarragona, Spain, Casa CLO, envisioned by the talented minds at Alventosa Morell Arquitectes, is a masterclass in lightweight timber construction. It gracefully navigates a steep, rocky terrain, a challenge that many would shy away from. Instead, the architects have woven the house into the very fabric of the landscape, creating a series of three elevated volumes that seem to rise organically from the earth, much like the surrounding pine trees.
But here's where it gets truly ingenious: The site itself presented a unique puzzle. With its rocky ground and significant slope, access was limited to the lowest point. And the views? Oh, the views! From the higher reaches, a tantalizing glimpse of the sea peeks through the dense forest canopy. The clients, a family from Barcelona seeking a serene escape, entrusted the architects with the freedom to craft a home that would truly connect with its environment. They wanted a place where they could gradually immerse themselves in the tranquility of the forest and the allure of the nearby sea.
And this is the part most people miss: The design strategy was heavily influenced by the existing natural elements and strict planning regulations. Significant earthworks were deemed too costly, so the solution was brilliant: organize the living spaces into three distinct, elevated volumes positioned at different levels on the upper part of the plot. This clever arrangement not only minimized disruption to the land but also maximized those precious sea views.
The vertical rhythm of the forest is echoed in the house's very structure. The placement of each volume was meticulously planned to avoid disturbing the existing trees, resulting in a subtle rotation that gives the entire composition a wonderfully organic feel. The architects opted for a timber structure where the entire load is borne by just ten columns. This means the impact on the ground is minimal, limited to only ten point foundations. This lightweight approach not only respects the site but also brings the serene verticality of the forest right into the heart of the home.
Now, for a bit of a design curveball: While planning regulations dictated an excavation along the street edge for parking, this was cleverly transformed into an opportunity. A beautiful staircase now winds its way up the side of the plot, leading you past a refreshing swimming pool to the welcoming entrance terrace. Stepping inside, you're greeted by a breathtaking double-height dining space and kitchen, a central hub that visually links all three volumes. A sleek metal staircase then guides you further, revealing a double-height study and a bedroom on the next level, and finally, two more peaceful bedrooms on the uppermost floor.
This house is more than just a structure; it's a dialogue with nature. The common areas are thoughtfully oriented to capture the captivating forest views, inviting the outdoors in. The interiors are a symphony of warm timber, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Even the minimal bathroom on the upper level features wooden surfaces, extending the natural aesthetic throughout.
So, what do you think? Is it the ultimate way to build on a challenging site, or does this elevated approach raise concerns about accessibility or long-term stability? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
