
Nestled in a low-density residential neighborhood, Casa CM by Lateral Arquitectos stands on a 20m x 35m plot surrounded by expansive green spaces. Designed to prioritize privacy, the home embraces an inward-facing concept, opening itself toward its own interior landscape rather than the street. Large glass surfaces create transparency within, allowing a continuous visual connection to the surrounding nature while maintaining a sense of seclusion.
The architectural layout consists of two overlapping L-shaped volumes, carefully positioned to maximize natural light and the best views. A barbecue area at the rear extends the functionality of the home, complementing the internal organization of spaces. Throughout the design, a deliberate rhythm of patios introduces natural ventilation, distinct zones, and a dynamic interaction between the built and unbuilt environment.

A Spatial Composition Rooted in Patios
Patios serve as essential organizing elements, each with a distinct purpose. The first, located at the entrance, acts as a threshold between the street and the home, offering a gradual transition into the interior. The central patio establishes a clear division between social and private spaces, ensuring fluid circulation while increasing natural illumination. At the rear, an expansive green patio separates the main living areas from the barbecue space, reinforcing the home’s introverted nature.
By setting the structure away from the property’s edges, the surrounding vegetation becomes an integral part of the design, visually expanding the interiors and creating a soft boundary between built and natural elements. This approach allows the house to feel open without compromising privacy, reinforcing a balance between shelter and exposure.

Light and Circulation Defined by Vertical and Horizontal Connections
A double-height circulation area organizes the home’s spatial flow, connecting various rooms through a central axis linked to the main patio. A large skylight positioned above the staircase increases this vertical connection, bringing natural light deep into the core of the house. The interaction between solid and transparent elements creates a dynamic experience as one moves through different spaces.
On the ground floor, the front section houses a versatile room that can function as an office or guest bedroom, accompanied by a social bathroom. Toward the rear, an open yet subtly divided configuration contains the kitchen, dining room, and living space, forming a permeable sequence oriented along a north-south axis. To the north, a high window paired with a low concrete and wood cabinet provides a subtle separation from the double garage. To the south, large openings shaded by an overhang connect to the rear patio, inviting an indoor-outdoor transition.


A Harmonious Relationship Between Function and Form
The upper level organizes the private quarters. The front facade features three bedrooms and two bathrooms, ensuring a clear distinction between shared and individual spaces. Toward the back, a laundry area and a secluded lounge open directly onto a terrace, offering an outdoor extension of the interior. An exterior staircase connects this terrace to the patio below. This reinforces the continuity between levels and completes the home’s connection between indoor and outdoor environments.


To ensure optimal sunlight exposure throughout the year, the volumes are staggered along the longitudinal axis, allowing northern light to penetrate all interior spaces during winter. This thoughtful approach not only improves thermal comfort but also enhances the overall ambiance. Natural light plays a defining role in shaping each space, creating a well-balanced atmosphere.
Materiality and Lasting Simplicity
The design by Lateral Arquitectos embraces an honest and durable material palette, chosen for its ability to age gracefully over time. Exposed concrete and brick define the walls and roofing elements, ensuring structural integrity while lending a raw yet refined aesthetic. Natural stone extends across both interior and exterior floors, reinforcing a cohesive material continuity.

Inside, white surfaces contrast with polished wood finishes, creating an environment that feels bright yet warm. The restrained palette accentuates the clarity of forms, improving the home’s visual coherence while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere. The design avoids excessive ornamentation, relying instead on material authenticity and precise detailing to establish its architectural identity.

Project: Casa CM
Architects: Arq. Milagros Rocchetti, Arq. Diego Degiovanni – Lateral Arquitectos
Engineering and Exposed Concrete: Ing. Marco Boidi – Geotecnia y Cimientos
Collaborators: Arq. Darío Rodríguez, Valentino Bossio
Surface Area: 300 m²
Years: 2021 – 2023
Photography: Ramiro Sosa
SUPPLIERS/PRODUCTS:
FV: Faucets
Ferrum: Sanitary Fixtures
Ilva: Porcelain Tiles
Vilso y Bertoni: HVAC
Don Pica: Stones
Ctek: Aluminum Windows
Fernando Ingaramo: Wood