Villa Juanita is not just a house; it is an interpretation of living in harmony with nature—a place where spaces blend seamlessly with their surroundings, and architecture becomes an extension of the terrain.

Located on the banks of the Paraná River, the house takes a form that responds both to natural conditions and to the way of life it is meant to accommodate. Inspired by the green iguana, it embodies a physical manifestation of a natural state—just as an iguana retreats into its habitat, the house merges with the earth, almost disappearing into it.

The roof, sloping down from the edges of the structure, evokes the legs of an iguana bent toward the ground, creating a direct connection between shelter and terrain. This form is not merely aesthetic; it is functional, adapting to the microclimate, allowing natural ventilation and protection from the sun.

The green roof, a result of carefully elevating the terrain, becomes an integrated part of the ecosystem. More than just an ecological response to the climate, it is an essential element that enables the house to behave like a living organism—breathing, growing, and evolving over time.

The house exudes a sense of calm and balance, a place where all spaces are interconnected, making its inhabitants feel as if they are part of the very nature surrounding them. Just as the iguana thrives in its habitat, those who dwell in Villa Juanita experience an inner harmony, where nature, climate, and architecture are not just a setting but partners in everyday life.

MASTER PLAN

The building is positioned on the eastern part of the plot, replacing the existing structure while retaining the current entrance from the access road.

This location, also the highest point of the site, allows for optimal spatial organization, ensuring that all functions align with the natural slope of the terrain while maintaining an unobstructed view of the river—one of the project’s key priorities.

SPATIAL ORGANIZATION AND FUNCTION

At the entrance to the plot, parking spaces are located on both sides of the gate. The entrance plateau leads to the central entry zone of the building, which functionally divides the space into day and night zones.

Extensive glass surfaces in this area establish both visual and physical connections with nature on both sides of the structure, enhancing the sense of spatial fluidity.

Villa Juanita is oriented along a north-south axis to provide all rooms with a direct view of the river.

While this orientation could potentially create a barrier between the entrance area and the main courtyard, the use of glass panels—fully openable in the summer—ensures an uninterrupted visual and functional flow throughout the space.

OUTDOOR DESIGN

The backyard is structured to transition from lively social zones to quieter, more private areas. The terrace, pool, BBQ area, and fire pit—designed for gatherings—are positioned in the northern part of the plot, away from the night zone to ensure privacy in the bedrooms.

South of the pool, relaxation and sunbathing areas blend into the natural landscape with minimal furnishings, fostering an intimate, tranquil atmosphere.

Over time, users can personalize these spaces by adding seating, loungers, or lighting to suit their needs.

The riverside section remains largely untouched, preserving its natural ambiance and offering a serene retreat for contemplation.

LIVING AREA

The living area features an open-concept layout that integrates the living room, kitchen, and dining space. It also includes a guest restroom, a laundry/utility room, and a guest bedroom with an en-suite bathroom.

A staircase from the living room leads to a gallery bridge, providing access to an open mezzanine designed for relaxation and enjoying the view.

This level also houses a spacious library with a dedicated workspace, thoughtfully designed to accommodate remote work, given the site’s distance from urban centers.

A Staircase
as the Central Motif

The interior of Villa Juanita is defined by a striking, custom-designed staircase that serves as both a functional and sculptural element. Each step extends cantilevered from the wall, additionally secured by a vertical tension rod attached to the ceiling, creating a sense of weightlessness.

This motif extends beyond the interior—steps continue seamlessly into the courtyard, scattered across the parcel, forming a cohesive visual composition that blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor space.

NIGHT AREA

The night area is divided into a parental and a children’s section. The ground floor features the master bedroom, complete with a separate work nook, a walk-in closet, and a private bathroom.

The children’s bedrooms are located on the upper floor, accessible via the gallery bridge. This section includes two bedrooms with their own wardrobes and a shared bathroom, along with a dedicated children’s lounge—a flexible space for play, study, exercise, or even additional accommodation when needed.

A split-level design creates an additional lounge area with a kitchenette and bar on the lower level, seamlessly connecting to the backyard. This layout enhances interaction between indoor spaces and the natural surroundings.