Credits
From Felipe Camus Dávila
architects: DRAA (del rio arquitectos asociados) + magdalena besomi
design team: nicolas del rio, felipe camus, magdalena besomi
construction area: 45m2.
site area: 2.5 acres
location: las trancas, nevados de chillán, chile
project year: 2016
The Shangri-La Cabin nestled deep within the lush forests of central Chile was designed as a natural addition to the tall native woodlands it calls home. It’s a collaborative family project that shows a respect for natural wonders and surprises passers-by with its intrepid geometric prowess.
Taking inspiration from the centuries-old trees that line the forest, the home appears to reach upward as if searching for light, supported by a thin platform of opposing angles reminiscent of an animal’s legs. The first floor is elevated 10 feet off the ground to keep some distance from the winter snow and allow for a high level of insulation as well as an air-lock entrance. Construction was completed by the owners, who worked with family members and a local team to assemble this elevated mountain cabin. The house is covered in timber planks collected from nearby trees while the interior boasts charred pine planks preserved following the yakisugi principle.