This residence is situated in the southeastern coastal suburbs of Puerto Rico. Its design is guided by a central concept: the house faces inward on the side away from the suburban streets, while it opens outward on the east side overlooking the sea. This dual orientation results in varying architectural expressions—from solid white walls defining the facade to open spaces framed by slender steel columns supporting the roof.
The building subtly steps down half a floor to accommodate the site’s elevation changes and enhance the connection between interior and exterior spaces.
The residence utilizes passive ventilation and lighting strategies to maximize comfort and energy efficiency. A key feature of the facade is the “hot air chimney,” which also functions as a skylight. Positioned opposite to the prevailing wind direction, this design creates a suction effect that continuously circulates air while illuminating the interior spaces.
Located near the landfall zone of Hurricane Maria, the residence incorporates hurricane-resistant features to withstand extreme weather. Canvas-like materials, which are both flexible and durable against hurricanes, are installed outside windows and some terraces. When these coverings are closed, they create an effect reminiscent of the works of artist Christo, enclosing and defining space and form.
This material allows soft, natural light to filter into the rooms. While hurricane blinds are often considered undesirable in many buildings, here they are embraced as a defining architectural element that enhances the character of the main living spaces.
The residence is constructed using an Insulated Concrete System (GCT), providing excellent thermal resistance. This feature significantly enhances the efficiency of the building’s cooling equipment. In Puerto Rico’s tropical climate, most concrete buildings lack insulation, leading to high heat transfer. However, gypsum used here acts as a structural mortar containing a continuous insulation layer within the walls. The polished exposed concrete floor is the sole structural element that does not require insulation in this environment.
The compact interior layout still feels spacious, partly due to the seamless flow onto the terrace, which encourages outdoor living and strengthens the connection between inside and outside. A small infinity pool on the terrace visually extends the view to the horizon, integrating the ocean into the interior experience. It also functions as a water reservoir.
△ Plan view
△ Plan view
△ Elevation drawing
△ Section A
△ Section B
Project Information
Project type: Independent residential building
Location: Naguabo, Puerto Rico
Designer: FUSTER+Architects
Area: 2,915 m²
Year: 2020
Photographer: Jaime Navarro
Manufacturers: AutoDesk, Ecológica Carmelo
Lead Architect: Nataniel Fúster
Design Team: Heather Crichfield, Luis R. Albaladejo, José Pagán
Client: Carlos Flores
Engineer: José Green
Consultants: Rafael Parés, Taller 34, Inc & Redcon Construction
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