The building is composed of a low rise hotel and recreational complex and measures 32,7m x 144,8m. Spread over three levels and dug partially into the slope, it appears to float above the contour lines and is orientated to the west, parallel to the slope with views towards the Salar of Atacama. The primary goal of the project is to generate transitional spaces between the outside and the inside, thus reducing energy needs, and offer a variety of spatial situations for users to dwell in.

We split the residence program in two distinctive horizontal sections: the upper zone dedicated to the guest’s rooms and the lower zone which holds the common areas. In order to limit the impact of the operation on the site, the room system takes place on the higher plateau to take advantage of the different levels on the site and defines the spaces located on the lower level.

All the rooms benefit of exterior views as well as connections towards the east and west plaza, whose geometry generates semi-private terraces and more open collective zone where to socialize. The common spaces range from small and intimate spaces to the extreme openness on the plaza. The main entrance to the residence is at the ground floor, where all the reception services are gathered.

Client: The Austral European Observatory (ESO) / Cost: € 7.7M excl. VAT / Surface: 5800 m² / Schedule: 2012 / Team: Bollinger-Grohmann (Structure), Franck Boutté (HEQ)