When we talk about modern architecture these days, you instantly get a vision of tall glass skyscrapers! Modern architecture is characterized by skyscrapers and glass structures. However, a growing trend is slowly making its place in the world of architecture, and that is – Concrete architectural designs. Concrete structures have a unique appeal to them. Raw, rustic, and organic, these real and unfiltered architectural structures immediately catch your eye. If you love concrete buildings, then you will approve of the Shire!
Designer: Atelier Matias Mosquera
Designed by Atelier Matias Mosquera, the Shire is a one-of-a-kind and exceptional home that beautifully merges into its surrounding landscape. The home is self-sufficient in terms of power, water, and food. The home is inspired by the Shire by Tolkien’s iconic books, as its name suggests. It is tucked away in a rural space in Buenos Aires and is built mainly from concrete. The surrounding landscape is lush and green, which perfectly complements the greenery on top of the home. The greenery provides insulation from the heat and cold, while wooden slats offer shade from the sun as well.
The interior is made up of exposed concrete and wood, including the bathroom which contains a unique stone-like bathtub. The home occupies around 200 sq m and houses three bedrooms, a living room, a kitchen, a library area, and a bathroom. It is surrounded by lush and detailed landscaping, which includes a swimming pool, as well as multiple pathways that let you walk on top of the structure.
“Instead of buying and throwing goods away, the idea is to produce, consume as needed, and then recycle,” said Atelier Matias Mosquera. “There would be no more garbage since the system would be self-sufficient. It generates its own electricity, heating, water, and, above all, food.”
The home runs off-grid as well since it is powered by solar panels, which are linked to a battery array, which makes sure the lights are on even when the sun isn’t shining too bright. It features a rainwater capture system which can be connected to the water tanks and a vegetable garden, to offer sustainable food production. The Shire was built to help the owner live near nature, providing a much-needed break from the hectic city life.
