Veronica Beach House by Longhi Architects

Peru based architecture firm Longhi Architects has recently completed the Veronica Beach House on the rocky terrain of  Pucusana, Perú. The home presented the firm with the opportunity to explore contemporary Peruvian architecture, in a context known from its ‘international styles’.

Image © Juan Solano

In our environment, it is more difficult to try to offer Peruvian architecture than foreign architecture, complicating the attempt when commisions often arrive with specific orders oblivious to what should be in a proper context styles.

– Longhi Architects

Image © Juan Solano

The architects describe the design as a “happy meeting between the artificial and the natural”. The residence features a 40 meters long infinity pool, alongside a majestic staircase that rises several storeys high. Located on the same level as the social areas, the swimming pool was carved into the hill, creating a balance between the rocky site, and the artificial elements of the design.

Image © Juan Solano

Image © Juan Solano

A glass enclosure spans along the North side of the house, and connects the living room and kitchen with the terrace is and pool. The private areas are housed in a two level volume that ‘floats’ above the terrace.

Image © Juan Solano

This volume generates a nice architectural dialogue with the rock side both north and south of the lot, with a bulk composition that could be interpreted as the geometrization of the nature of the place.

– Longhi Architects

Image © Juan Solano

Materials were carefully selected to integrate the house in its rocky setting. Cast stone concrete, with colours derived from natural rock context, was used to achieve balance. Exposed concrete was applied to specific architectural elements, such as artistic beams that support the glazing system, window frames, door, and details of the main staircase. Shihuahuaco wooden balconies raise above the terrace level, creating a striking contrast against the white ceilings, and glazed walls.

Image © Juan Solano

Image © Juan Solano

Image © Juan Solano

Image © Juan Solano

Image © Longhi Architects

Image © Longhi Architects

Image © Longhi Architects

Image © Longhi Architects

Facts:
Location: Playa Poseidón – Pucusana, Perú
Use: Beach House
Site Area: 545 m²
Construction: 650 m²
Design – Construction: 2012-2014
Architectural Firm: Longhi Architects
Principal in charge: Arch. Luis Longhi
Project Team: Arch. Carla Tamariz, Arch. Christian Bottger
Construction: Arch. Hector Suasnabar
Supervision: Longhi Architects
Photography: Juan Solano

*All images and information courtesy of Longhi Architects.