Casa Float / Spirale Arquitetura

Architects: Spirale Arquitetura
Area: 675 m²
Year: 2021
Photography: Larissa Sad
Manufacturers: Rewood
Lead Architect: Catharina Macedo
Country: Brazil

Spirale Arquitetura presents the Float House, a residence that merges ecological sensibilities with cultural reverence, rooted in the biophilic landscapes of Brazil’s cerrado. Completed in 2021, this 675 m² residential project integrates advanced sustainable practices with the traditional values of Minas Gerais. The design utilizes Glued Laminated Timber (Glulam) for its main structure, promoting a physically light yet environmentally considerate construction. This brief explores the architecture’s dual-building layout, its ecological strategies including rainwater harvesting and solar orientation, and the culturally infused design elements that characterize the home.

The Float House was conceived to highlight the scenic sunset views of the cerrado in the Federal District, influenced by the owners’ experiences in New Zealand with efficient, light construction techniques. The residence aims to provide an ecologically sound living space that resonates with the owners’ cultural roots. The design was focused on creating restorative spaces that encourage a connection to nature, featuring elements from Minas Gerais culture, energy efficiency, and a modular construction approach.

The architectural composition includes two connected buildings: the main house and a smaller studio, both designed to harmonize with the natural terrain. The house is structured into two primary sections—the social and private blocks—linked by a centrally positioned kitchen. This area is enhanced by double-height ceilings and top lighting, forming the core of the home.

The private block is strategically positioned to harness prevailing winds, while the social block is oriented towards maximizing views of the Cerrado landscape. Addressing the climatic challenges of the region, large balconies provide necessary shading to cool interior spaces during peak heat. Additional environmental protections include extensive eaves and brick coverings that shield against sun and rain.

The structural framework features Glued Laminated Timber, chosen for its lightness and minimal environmental footprint. This material facilitates a clean, efficient building process with minimal onsite waste. The design incorporates 5m x 5m modular spaces, supported by a rigid segment housing the water reservoir and topped with thermoacoustic tiles for lightweight roofing.

Significant sustainability measures include the layout of the three roof pitches, with the central section raised to allow light penetration and ventilation, reducing the thermal load. These roofs are equipped with systems for rainwater collection, which is recycled for irrigation, and are optimally oriented for potential solar panel installation. The water from bathrooms and kitchens is treated and used to irrigate the onsite vegetable garden, ensuring a sustainable cycle of resource use. This project not only reflects a strong environmental ethos but also a deep respect for local cultural identities, embodied in a modern architectural expression.