The original solution to the problem of the difference in height, or the Artisan of architecture.

Does there exist ethical domination in handicraft versus industrial construction? Architect Antonio Holgado works alone, away from fashion and is trying to renew the tradition of Spanish low-rise construction.

Antonio Holgado considers himself a master craftsman, "who works almost like the only author of all the processes of an architectural project."

"This allows me, as is the case with a potter, a blacksmith or a cabinet maker, to ensure full participation in what I design. I enjoy it and are honest with those who trust my work," adds the architect.

Holgado, 44, works only in Almendralejo (Badajoz, Spain). The ethics of the artisan, which he defends, can be seen in public housing, built in the province of Badajoz, in the municipality of Cabeza del Buey.

But what is the ethical superiority? Are these houses more sophisticated because they are simple? Because they cost less than 500 euros per square meter (€ 471.17 / m², three of them and 435.49 € / m² - the other two)? Not. And yes. This is because with this price they sought to become an aesthetic and cultural contribution (social advantage and so obvious) to the city where they were built, and an excellent gift for the people who will live in them.

On our site you can familiarize yourself with the most popular projects of houses from construction companies represented at the exhibition "Low-Rise Country".

Let's see why.

1. Houses, like their inhabitants, are different. This is not the result of the architect's whim. This is due to his ability to work with topographic differences of up to four meters in height at the ends of the base of buildings. A variety of heights depends on the soil and leveling possibilities on selected streets.
2. Despite strict boundaries (area limits of 80 m2, emphasis on the development of a single floor, or preference for having a sloping roof rather because of the morphology of the city, rather than due to climatic needs), Holgado houses manage to comply with all the established frameworks without harm attractiveness and functionality of the project.
3. Holgado discovered that the difference in height on the streets of the city was too pronounced. To achieve the smoothing of these changes in height, he developed a kind of “envelope” for buildings, which helps create a harmonious picture. The roof and facades that will act as a fence in these houses are painted white, which will also allow buildings to blend in harmoniously with the traditional look of the city.
4. The work of artisans is often manifested in the details. In the games of shadows created by the reliefs of the facades, in the use of one color, realized in different colors, and in the desire to respect the traditions, updating them. Thus, as is customary (and perfectly natural) in the culture and climate of Badajoz, the houses have a patio, a private space that ventilates and lights all the rooms in the house. Holgado indicates that the owners are unlikely to be interested in looking at this courtyard from the house, so the holes are created only for the implementation of cross ventilation.
5. The original grilles finally reveal the hand of the celebrated master. They perform a dual function: ensuring privacy and protecting the holes. They are integrated into the building so that the whole building looks as one.

The strength of a good architect is in the ability to transform the original problem into an advantage, the highlight of your project. Interesting alignment due to the significant difference in height, structural integrity and innovative solutions make Holgado houses a desirable and, what is important, affordable product for people.

It might be interesting! In the article on the following link read about the modular house - a telescope.

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