The "Casa Chorizo" is a traditional housing typology that originated in Buenos Aires at the end of the 20th century, representative of the urban middle class and the waves of migration at the end of the era. It is characterized by a consecutive succession of rooms along a longitudinal patio that serves as the unifying core of the dwelling. It is precisely the patio that is transformed by BHY arquitectos' design into a protagonist space, structured by a large light envelope that also helps stabilize the upper floor of Casa Martínez
Transformation from the typical Argentine "Chorizo house" to the ecologically intelligent simplicity of Casa Martínez
Three key points of the intervention which gives life to the new Casa Martínez by renovating and expanding a "Casa Chorizo" in Buenos Aires: the adaptation of the existing structure of the ground floor to accommodate the convivial daytime area; the construction of a new level on the old terrace in order to accommodate the private area; and the revalorization of the side courtyard
The patio provides a transition zone between the interior and the exterior, mitigating and hybridizing the perception and livability of both spaces. The generous height of this volume, framed by a series of regular ribs, ensures a monumental scale of the space, providing a sense of shelter and security. In addition to providing the load-bearing structure for the upstairs extension, this envelope also provides support for the climbing plants that will grow, creating a new landscape that stimulates imagination and new freedom of use by the inhabitants of the house
The deciduous vegetation climbing on the envelope allows optimal sun exposure during the winter and provides shade for the patio during the summer, maximizing year-round use of this space. At the same time, the linear garden adjacent to the partition wall helps reduce high summer temperatures through evaporative cooling and purify fresh air for healthy house ventilation. The exposed concrete floor both inside and outside, together with the thick pre-existing side façade walls, form a thermal mass that further helps regulate temperatures passively
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