Powerful and Versatile Materials: A World of Architectural Possibilities

Gonzalez & Jacobson Architecture and their architects in Sotogrande participates in a design contest for a residential complex in Torreguadiaro, San Roque, Cadiz.

As mentioned in part (i) of this post, a project competition presentation involves numerous topics. Today, we’ll focus on the materials proposed for this large-scale project.

This architectural project by the architects in Sotogrande has been a challenge, projecting ideas and sustainable architectural design in Sotogrande for a Mediterranean lifestyle.

The proposed materials for the various buildings and facilities of the residential complex aim to revalue local resources:

WOOD

A noble and traditional material with lower environmental impact. Benefits include:

Renewable and recyclable construction, carbon absorption, less waste, accelerated construction timelines, greater energy efficiency, insulating capacity, etc.

Wood is ideal, with its diverse finishes and hues, for shaping spatial experiences, volumes and surfaces. It balances aesthetics and functionality, adapting to users’ needs whilst considering factors such as style and practicality.

EARTH

Earth, a noble material used in construction since antiquity, is abundant and readily available worldwide.

Raw earth, or mud, offers numerous advantages as a building material. It’s non-toxic, recyclable, easily obtainable, and can be mixed with elements like lime, gypsum, or straw. It boasts excellent thermal properties, sound insulation, and breathability, whilst remaining cost-effective.

Earth construction varies in appearance, formats, and techniques. The main methods include:

ADOBE: Sun-dried mud bricks, often mixed with plant fibres like straw for cohesion.

COMPRESSED EARTH BLOCKS: Similar to adobe but produced differently, using damp clay and a binder, compressed by manual or automatic press.

RAMMED EARTH: Walls made of damp, clayey soil, rammed and compacted within formwork.

COB: Technique of stacking viscous mud ‘balls’ to form layers, allowing each to dry for stability.

Gonzalez & Jacobson and their architects in Sotogrande, revisits compressed earth techniques to seek sustainable alternatives. This stems from energy crises, resource depletion, and the negative visual impact of current unsustainable construction practices on the environment and human health.

LOCAL REED – MEDITERRANEAN CANE

Reed, the strongest material relative to its weight, has been used in construction since time immemorial. This project proposes using local Mediterranean cane (Arundo Donax).

Traditionally used in roof lattices, this versatile plant fibre, like bamboo, hemp or rush, offers flexibility and strength. It enables the creation of various building elements such as pergolas, weaves and frameworks connecting modules.

BAMBOO, THE MARVELLOUS PLANT OF THE FUTURE

Bamboo is proposed as a natural material for various project aspects, despite not being native to Europe, due to its countless benefits.

Its flexibility, strength, and durability make it ideal for pergolas, connectors, frameworks, and composites for interior and exterior fittings. It’s also suitable for structural elements like columns, beams, composite trusses, and foundations, making it a trendy and contemporary material.

“DWARF PALM” – NATIVE MEDITERRANEAN PALM

The dwarf palm (Chamaerops humilis L.) is characteristic of the Mediterranean region and the only native palm in our territory. It’s found throughout Cadiz province, rarely in pure stands, often accompanying other Mediterranean shrub species in diverse terrains from coastal areas to mountain slopes in Sierra de Grazalema.

It’s proposed for certain construction elements and roofs, promoting innovation and sustainable design.

GREEN ROOFS

Vegetated roofs are proposed for various project areas, offering multiple benefits. They utilise the natural terrain gradient and, in some cases, will be combined with photovoltaic panels.

GREEN RETAINING WALLS AND TERRACING

Given the site’s topography, reflecting typical Mediterranean conditions, Gonzalez & Jacobson Architecture proposes various sustainable green retaining alternatives combined with traditional stone walls.

High efficiency/airtightness. Combined with photovoltaic glass in different locations and solar balustrades.

DOUBLE GLAZING IN OPENINGS

High efficiency/airtightness. Combined with photovoltaic glass in various locations and solar balustrades.

We’ve briefly explored this topic. The judicious selection of materials, aligned with the project’s characteristics, needs, and requirements, ensures its success, visual appeal, and ambiance.

Gonzalez & Jacobson Architecture and their architects in Sotogrande regularly participates in large-scale architectural project competitions in Spain. Their extensive experience enables them to manage, execute, and supervise such projects effectively.