New York-based design studio Champalimaud has transformed the "Hurricane-ravaged Su Casa" into a lush villa that openly welcomes visitors from around the world. Located in a resort in Dorado, Puerto Rico, the project overhauled a spacious building that originated in the 1920s.
The structure suffered damages from Hurricane Maria which hit the Carribean island in 2017. Thus, the architectural venture was a quest to preserve the assets of the beautiful building. Champalimaud designed the updated lush villa to feature more durable structural pillars — this includes the use of thick concrete walls. Another focal point of the refurbishment was facilitating intimate connections between interior and exterior spaces. This is realized in the form of quaint terraces, infinity pools, greenery, a patio, and more.
Photo Credits: Emily Andrews
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Resilient Architecture
- Opportunities for the design industry to create structures that can withstand disasters and natural calamities
- Integrative Green Spaces
- Trend towards incorporating natural elements and biophilic design in architecture to create a seamless connection between interior and exterior spaces
- Sustainable Reconstruction
- Renovation of old buildings using sustainable materials and incorporating energy-efficient systems for a more eco-friendly approach to design and construction
Industries Being Reshaped
- Architecture
- Design firms have the opportunity to create innovative solutions for disaster-proof structures and sustainability-oriented renovation projects
- Tourism and Hospitality
- Opportunities for the tourism and hospitality industry to offer eco-friendly and sustainable accommodations that emphasize connections with natural environments
- Construction
- Innovative building materials and techniques can be employed in the construction industry to create resilient and sustainable structures
