Casa Estudio by Manuel Cervantes: A Space Where Life and Work Merge

DATE

04.06.2025

This architectural ensemble consists of two residences—the Pent-House and the Pent-Garden—and a studio, all situated on a 125-meter-long plot that adapts to a sloping topography descending toward a ravine. The stepped arrangement of the volumes allows for harmonious integration with the natural environment, creating terraces that extend the interior spaces outward.

The design of the Casa Estudio stands out for its use of local and sustainable materials. The structure is defined by a perimeter concrete band framing each level, while the side facades are clad in ceramic, and the ravine- and street-facing facades feature concrete brackets. Interior finishes include exposed brick and wooden beams, revealing the structure on each level and creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

The architectural layout enables fluid coexistence between the private areas and the studio. The main access is through a shared space that functions as both parking and an interconnecting area for the two residences. The studio, located two levels below, faces the ravine entirely, offering a bright, quiet workspace removed from urban noise. This spatial organization reflects Cervantes’s philosophy of integrating personal and professional life into a single environment, eliminating traditional boundaries between the two.

Casa Estudio has been recognized for its innovative approach and sensitivity to both the natural and urban context. It received awards such as the Pan-American Architecture Prize in the single-family housing category at the XIX Pan-American Architecture Biennial of Quito, highlighting its ability to fuse design, functionality, and environmental respect. This project exemplifies how architecture can reflect everyday life, offering a space that inspires creativity and well-being.

MARCH VALENCIA | ARQUITECTURA Y DISEÑO

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