- Interior
Casa Catedral is an architectural masterpiece that embodies the essence of materiality and functionality. In this project the emphasis is on the pure expression of specially manufactured blocks and exposed concrete, without additional cladding. This not only emphasizes economic efficiency but also a dignified aging process of the materials. The design follows a linear axis, consisting of four main volumes and a connecting piece, which together create a harmonious and balanced living space.
The four volumes, separated by load-bearing walls and grilles, provide a clear division between public and private spaces, resulting in a balanced scale and optimal privacy. The home's careful southeast orientation provides panoramic views from every angle, promoting a seamless connection with the surrounding canyon landscape. This visual and spatial continuity strengthens the relationship between the interior and the natural environment. The connecting volume acts as the central hub of the home. Here the main entrance and stairwell are located in a double-height space that welcomes visitors. This space, with its tinted glass and tense structure, reflects the lush vegetation and creates a smooth transition to the outside. This gives the house an open and inviting character, while emphasizing the natural beauty of the surroundings. The primary volume on the ground floor encompasses the communal areas such as the lowered living room and dining room, offering a dynamic and interactive user experience. This space is connected to the terrace and the kitchen, creating an open layout that perfectly integrates the garden and the panoramic views. On the upper floor is the master bedroom with walk-in closet, surrounded by green elements that provide extra privacy. The remaining three volumes are divided horizontally and separated by greenery, which provides extra privacy without common walls. The ground floor houses the study, guest rooms and gym, while the top floor houses secondary bedrooms connected by a double-height corridor. This hallway ends in a trellis, which creates the illusion of floating ceilings and provides an abundance of natural light.
A striking feature of Casa Catedral is the careful design of the blocks, specially crafted for this project
The strategic placement of structural block walls and grilles not only contributes to sun protection and ensures privacy, but also minimizes reliance on mechanical ventilation systems. This results in significant energy savings and increases indoor quality of life. The interior facade of Casa Catedral opens to the garden, promoting a direct connection with nature. The street-facing facade has discreet openings and slits that let in natural light without sacrificing privacy. Economic efficiency is combined with structural and material integrity. The result is a sustainable and efficient architectural solution, in which the interplay of blocks, concrete and wood achieves a harmonious balance between form and function. A striking feature of Casa Catedral is the careful design of the blocks, specially crafted for this project. These blocks are designed to be easy to use, aesthetically pleasing and structurally strong without further cladding. Inspired by elongated shapes, the blocks have minimal vertical separation to emphasize horizontal lines. An innovative tongue-and-groove system minimizes vertical joints, while the precise dimensions of 15 cm wide, 30 cm long and 4 cm high create a visually attractive and structurally sound module. There are three variants of the blocks designed for specific applications: blocks with tongue and groove on both sides, blocks with tongue and groove on one side, and solid blocks for grid constructions. The cavities in the blocks facilitate the integration of electrical, plumbing and hydraulic systems, further increasing the efficiency and usability of the design. Casa Catedral is an inspiring example of how thoughtful design and honest materiality can merge into a harmonious and sustainable living space. It is an ode to the beauty of simplicity and the power of carefully selected materials, which together create a timeless architectural experience. Photography by Ariadna Polo
Text by Celien Hemelaer