Seamlessly Blending Architecture and Nature: Levitating over the Mountain
Project's Summary
The Levitating over the Mountain project, created by Carlos Guevara Architects, is a remarkable architectural endeavor that seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings. Situated in a privileged location boasting one of the world's finest climates, this house captures the dreams and desires of its clients. Built on a steeply sloping terrain that descends towards the North, the property offers breathtaking views of the Caracas valley and the majestic "El Ávila" hill, which stands tall at 1,765m above the city.
To fully embrace the remarkable landscape, the design of the house was carefully crafted to provide a direct connection between the interior spaces and the outside environment. The house spans across four floors, with the uppermost level serving as the main living area. As you approach the entrance, a striking yellow sculptural gate welcomes you, seamlessly integrating the pedestrian and vehicular accesses. Inside, the living room, dining room, guest bathroom (featuring a stunning vertical garden), and kitchen are arranged in a spacious, open-concept layout that allows everyone to enjoy the panoramic city views. The Ávila hill is beautifully framed, resembling a magnificent 12m wide by 4m high painting.
Moving up to the level above, you will find the living quarters of the house. These rooms appear to levitate over the landscape, thanks to their horizontal planes that extend outward, providing shade and protection from the sun to the lower levels. The ceilings of these rooms are designed at an angle to maximize the views towards "El Ávila." The structural design of cantilevered plates plays a crucial role in maintaining uninterrupted visuals.
From the entrance level, you can access the pool area without entering the house itself. A visually captivating staircase, strategically positioned at the turning point of the land lot, leads the way. This separate access proves to be immensely practical for hosting social events. The pool level features a barbecue area with furniture designed with faceted planes, adding an exclusive touch. The terraces, adorned with marble, grass, and wood, create an inviting outdoor space. Inside, a family room and a glass office with expansive views offer a serene environment for work or relaxation. Descending from the pool area through an elegant staircase, you will reach the entertainment level, which houses a gym, cinema, and discotheque.
The Levitating over the Mountain project aims to redefine the relationship between its occupants, architecture, and nature. By seamlessly blending with its surroundings, this dwelling enhances the connection of its inhabitants with themselves. It serves as a sanctuary where family bonds are strengthened, and individuals can nurture their spirituality in harmony with nature, allowing the power of architecture to unfold.
To achieve the desired openness while defining the individual spaces, the architects employed an innovative system of parking doors. Made of extra-clear glass and frameless, these doors allow the entire North facade of the house to open up completely, integrating the landscape seamlessly and flooding the interiors with natural light. During the construction process, there was a memorable moment when a subtle mist gracefully made its way into the house, as if nature itself had been invited and graciously accepted the invitation.
In summary, the Levitating over the Mountain project by Carlos Guevara Architects is a remarkable testament to the harmonious fusion of architecture and nature. It emerges from the landscape, levitates above it with its horizontal planes, and becomes one with the air, resembling wings. This architectural masterpiece captures the essence of its surroundings, offering a sanctuary where inhabitants can connect with themselves and nature in perfect harmony.
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