Casa Abovedada | Edward Rojas Arquitectos

Located in the highlands with strong sunlight and stunning landscape views. Casa Abovedada is a dome-shaped house located on the island of Chiloe, Chile. The name Casa Abovedada means “Domed house” which directly explains the shape of its mass. Chiloe Island itself is an island that is famous for its unique wooden building style, which is known as the Chilotan architectural style. This typical Chilean wooden architectural style has also been recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Casa Abovedada consists of three domed wooden structures connected by walkways to the exterior. The shape of this building can be understood as a set of modules that have different functions in each barrel dome. The central module is a communal area containing common spaces (living room and kitchen) for families and guests. At the north end this module houses the master bedroom which is also considered a second shell to cover the winter garden, while at the south end houses the children's bedroom. These three modules are interconnected by corridors and terraces. From this terrace you can see expansive views of Chile's Patagonia on the horizon.

The module form at Casa Abovedada is built with the main material of wood arranged in traditional structures and technologies. The wooden beams are stretched facing different directions to take advantage of the beautiful setting of the house. The floor of this house is also covered with recycled tile material. The modules are designed to be half a floor high which allows plenary use to accommodate the studio space and parents' library. According to the architect, Edward Rojas, the central area is enriched with stained glass windows and the use of a mezzanine that emphasizes the height and the dome as the protagonist of the house.

Although the traditional architectural style can be very strong in this house, the simplified shapes and details such as curved or even circular openings give this project a contemporary touch. This house is also almost entirely made of wood material, be it structure, cladding, exterior, to interior finishing. According to the architect, the use of wood and traditional building materials is the main focus of the design which is also following the context of the area around the building.