Vuilleumier’s goal was to harness the natural forces in the Natales region, and have the OutsideIN home harmonize, rather than work against them. The sloped roof was created in response to the strong Northwest Winds that can reach up to 60 mph. The angle and positioning of the roof allow the winds to sweep through and cool the interior. Alternatively, the sloping roof also collects rain water that can be used for gardening and irrigation.
The exterior of the home uses functional and simple materials. Wooden beams are placed in a V shaped formation to support the slanted roof. Vuilleumier used inexpensive corrugated metal to line the front of the façade which faces shade. The back of the home is an added Trombe wall, which is a glazing and stone wall that faces the sun and absorbs solar energy. Trombe walls store solar energy and release it selectively toward the interior at night, and also act as a solar chimney which circulates air throughout the day.
Set by the sea, the OutsideIN home is a functional and economical home which uses the elements of the area to help power the home.
+ Fernanda Vuilleumier Arquitectura
Via Architizer
Great arquitecture and dialogue with the magnificent environment.
Simple but strong, green and chic.
Fernanda Vuilleumier makes a great statement that green and eco friendly arquitecture can be done with local materials and using Patagonian ancestors and innovative ways of building.
Congratulations, great contribute to these remote places in Patagonia, hopefully other projects in this sense will come soon.