A unique residential project is situated in the depths of the Colombian mountains of the Sierra Nevada, specifically on Vereda Bella Vista, via San Lorenzo. This two-level house, located at an altitude of 1890 m, has been constructed for residential-holiday purposes, showcasing the beauty of the ancestral indigenous land with contemporary luxuries and comfort. It is characterized by its breathtaking view and is enveloped by the white veil of clouds, creating the illusion of a house floating in the skies. The design was conceived through the interaction of two horizontally displaced volumes, which have been adapted to the topography of the mountain, achieving a juxtaposition between the interior and exterior space. Its implementation in the north-east direction allows it to fully open up to the landscape, permitting the use of winds for air circulation and moderate sun exposure both during the day and in the afternoon.

The ground floor, measuring 78.68 square meters, is encompassed by a 47.40 square meter terrace, which boasts one of the most striking features of the residence - a central fireplace, flanked by the open kitchen, dining room, and living room. The contemporary design incorporates indigenous materials from the surrounding area, such as stone and wood. Access to the second level, measuring 189.01 square meters, is gained via a spiral staircase constructed entirely of steel, which leads to two bedrooms, an internal courtyard, and a spacious green terrace.

Each room is equipped with a private bathroom, complete with a shower and toilet, and features large windows that create an outdoor ambiance.

The use of materials such as wood and glass aligns with the concept of blending in with the environment. Furthermore, each room has independent terraces measuring 16.4 square meters each, situated on either side of the house.

The 62.47 square meter terrace serves as a gathering place for the family, with its artificial grass flooring, chimney projection, and colorful furnishings.

The exterior walls are adorned with slabs that are an integral part of the fireplace on the interior. The remaining walls are made of plaster and painted in a light grey hue, while the bathrooms are painted with Fosil White and Mt Line Natural. The exterior and interior floors, as well as the porcelain baseboards, are made of Amazonia Fresno wood. Graphite aluminium profiles, clear glass, iron railings, glass, and wood are utilized for the access doors.

Fixed furniture is installed in the bar and kitchen. The steel structure, based on metallic profiles, is painted with a graphite colour. The ceiling, with a total height of 6.50 m, features an architecture that highlights transparency in the continuous glass facade of 2.80 m high per floor. This is one of the most significant architectural elements as it not only allows natural light to enter, thereby reducing electrical energy consumption, but also connects the exterior spaces with the interior, contributing to the creation of relaxed environments amidst the chaos of daily life.

El Cielo House / Ricardo de Castro
Architects: Ricardo de Castro
Area: 315 m²
Year: 2017
Manufacturers: AutoDesk, Chaos Group, Alutions, Avanti, ESWindows, Tecnoglass, Trimble
Lead Architect: Ricardo de Castro
Clients: Ezequiel Barrios
Engineering: Nilson Reyes
Landscaping: Ricardo de Castro
Consults: Victor Barrios
Country: Colombia
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