Monte Carmelo | Ecuador

Located 6 km from Quevedo and less than 5 km from La Esperanza, the Monte Carmelo master plan combines a commercial area with a series of macro lots intended for housing. The project seeks to achieve a balance between civic and private spaces, creating a mixed, flexible structure. Of a hybrid nature, it aims to generate a gradient of privacy capable of providing tranquility and an exceptional quality of life to the residents. The proposal connects a commercial sector along the access road with an area of amenities by the estuary, through a single road that traverses the residential macro-lots.

Entering via Route E30, we find the commercial sector, open to the public. Primarily civic in nature, it revitalizes an area previously lacking in attractive features, creating a space for community gathering and interaction. This area includes a strip mall, a five-story block for offices or studio apartments, and parking spaces for 280 vehicles. Behind it are complementary facilities, such as a water treatment and purification plant, which serve both the commercial area and the residential lots.

In terms of the general layout, four macro-lots are interconnected among themselves and with the service areas and common amenities through a central pathway that runs across the project, northwest to southeast. A natural creek at the end of this road adds value to the complex by creating a linear park along the stream. The amenities available to the entire project include a sports area with two soccer and paddle courts, lounging areas, swimming pools, and a chapel, taking advantage of the views of the park and the creek to enhance the strong connection with nature.

The residential macro-lots, named Olivo, Ficus, Cedro, Nogal, and Roble, are designed to achieve good performance without losing the natural character of the land and the functionality of the homes. Each macro-lot has its own amenities area, which includes shared kitchen and barbecues, gym, locker rooms, swimming pools, decks, courts, and playgrounds. To create unity within the complex, the design of the access points and amenities is replicated in each macro-lot. Additionally, the project combines security with the freedom to enjoy an environment where nature stands front and center.

The Studio has developed both the master plan and the architecture of the access points and clubhouse, respecting and enhancing the natural character of the land while preserving the qualities of the existing vegetation. The use of noble materials capable of aging harmoniously serves as an ideal complement, allowing the natural world to merge with the interior spaces. The stone walls are inhabited by vegetation, while the Corten steel used at the entrances gives a contemporary touch to the overall design. Shade becomes an important component of the design, given the intensity of the sun and heat in the region year-round.

In the common amenities area, two decks at different levels allow enjoyment of the landscape from various perspectives via pedestrian pathways, while a series of parking spaces facilitates access by car from the residences. An infinity-edge pool reflects the surrounding greenery, creating an appealing visual feature.

The master plan of Monte Carmelo adds a residential and service layer to a developing area, in harmony with the natural qualities of the environment, enabling residents to live in close proximity to an urban hub, while in direct contact with nature.