Embarking on a journey towards a greener future, WaCa Design and Julia Kosciuk Arquiteta have crafted a remarkable seaside compound in Santa Catarina, Brazil. This project, a harmonious blend of local materials and low-carbon construction methods, bridges the breathtaking beach and mountainous landscapes.
A Visionary Collaboration
The Rochas Floridas Beachside Compound, a collaboration between New York's WaCa Design and Brazilian studio Julia Kosciuk, stands as a testament to innovative architecture. Spanning an impressive 8,000 square feet, this private residence is a masterpiece inspired by its surroundings and a commitment to reducing embodied carbon.
Designing with Nature in Mind
The design philosophy behind this project is twofold. Firstly, it celebrates the stunning landscape, with sweeping views of the ocean and the rugged, rocky terrain. Secondly, it prioritizes the embodied carbon of each material used. The result is a series of box-like structures that radiate from the hill, creating a unique and visually captivating shell-like form.
Walter Cain, founder of WaCa Design, explains, "The formal design frames the views, offering a panoramic experience. One direction showcases the vast ocean, while the other highlights the beauty of boulders amidst tropical gardens."
Sustainable Materials and Innovative Solutions
The team's commitment to sustainability is evident in their material choices. They sourced granite from the site itself and utilized slate blocks from a nearby quarry. Brazilian hardwood and salvaged items were also incorporated to minimize the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing and transportation.
"Every surface, both inside and out, showcases these carefully selected materials," the team emphasizes.
But here's where it gets interesting: the team didn't stop at just using sustainable materials. They took it a step further by salvaging and repurposing items from the owner's childhood home. The front door, floor tiles, and plumbing features were reused, while metal details were transformed into railings and rain chains, and flooring became the dining room table.
"Every material was chosen for its low embodied carbon footprint," says Cain.
Avoiding Reinforced Concrete and Metal
Cain explains their design approach: "We actively avoided using reinforced concrete and minimized metal fixtures wherever possible. Designing with low embodied carbon materials is not just about sustainability; it's about creating unique and differentiated architecture."
And this is the part most people miss: the innovative workarounds required to achieve this. Designing doorknobs without metal, creating all-wood windows that withstand harsh oceanfront conditions, repurposing closet doors as headboards, and crafting visually porous railings from reused steel and recycled plastic rope are just some of the creative solutions they implemented.
"Figuring out these workarounds was incredibly rewarding," Cain adds.
A Journey Down the Hillside
The main house is designed as a three-story descent down the hillside. Accessed via a stone staircase, the top floor houses the entry, primary suite, home office, and guest room, along with a swimming pool and pool pavilion that maximize ocean views from the elevated position.
Descending to the second level, one finds the main social spaces: an open-plan kitchen, dining room, and living room, all opening onto outdoor terraces. The lowest floor accommodates two guest suites and a home theater.
"The level's organization responds to the steep site, incorporating features that mimic the natural water flow, such as cascading rainwater systems, waterfalls, natural pools, and water gardens," the team describes.
A Multi-Story Staircase and Split Roof Forms
The design's section is held together by a multi-story staircase, with split roof forms following the slope of the hill. These roof forms define the individual interior spaces and direct views through floor-to-ceiling windows towards the water.
"The interior showcases exposed slate block structural walls, creating a brutalist aesthetic. This is beautifully juxtaposed with the warm tones of Canela preta salvaged hardwood covering the floors, walls, and ceilings," the team explains. The exterior is wrapped in sustainably harvested tropical hardwood from the Brazilian Amazon, adding to the home's unique character.
A Sustainable Legacy
This project is not just a beautiful seaside compound; it's a testament to the power of sustainable design. By prioritizing low embodied carbon, WaCa Design and Julia Kosciuk have created a home that is both environmentally conscious and architecturally impressive.
What do you think? Is this the future of architecture? Should more designers embrace these sustainable practices? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
