Ortiz House

Ortiz House is a single-family residence designed to support an open, light-filled way of living while preserving the architectural character of its original structure. Conceived for a family seeking generous, integrated spaces, the project unfolds across two carefully articulated volumes connected by a central courtyard that acts as both a spatial hinge and a climatic mediator. The primary volume occupies the front of the site and accommodates the main social and private living areas across two levels. A secondary annex is positioned toward the rear of the plot, housing service functions and a private guest suite. Between these volumes, the courtyard establishes visual continuity, promotes natural cross-ventilation, and extends daily life toward the garden. Rather than treating outdoor space as a backdrop, the landscape is designed as an active extension of the architecture, reinforcing a constant dialogue between interior and exterior environments. A key architectural decision was the preservation and reinterpretation of the existing building. Instead of demolition, the project embraces built memory, retaining original proportions and openings while introducing contemporary interventions with restraint. This approach not only reduces environmental impact but also maintains the identity of the house, allowing old and new elements to coexist with balance. Material choices reinforce this continuity. White-painted brick defines the main volumes, lending the house a calm and timeless presence while extending selectively into interior spaces. Wood elements—used in doors, window frames, decking, and interior details—introduce warmth and soften the transition between architecture and garden. A restrained palette of stucco surfaces, monolithic flooring, and neutral tones enhances spatial clarity and amplifies natural light throughout the home. Upon entry, a sculptural central staircase becomes the project’s organizing element, visually connecting all levels. Social areas on the ground floor are arranged as a fluid sequence, allowing kitchen, dining, and living spaces to operate both independently and as a unified whole. The kitchen is conceived as a social core, combining technical efficiency with openness, supported by flexible partitions that adapt to daily use. Upper levels house the private and leisure areas. Bedrooms are positioned to capture treetop views, natural ventilation, and controlled daylight, supported by custom millwork and adjustable shading systems. The rooftop level introduces spaces dedicated to relaxation and family activities, offering elevated views and a strong connection to surrounding vegetation. Ortiz House reflects an architectural approach rooted in sustainability, spatial clarity, and user-centered design. By integrating contemporary living needs within an existing structure, the project achieves a quiet balance between innovation and continuity, resulting in a home that feels both grounded and forward-looking.