levitae house's large fragmented volumes cantilever above mountain in bolivia

ALEJANDRO VAZQUEZ builds LEVITAE HOUSE in La Paz

Levitae House by Alejandro Vazquez is situated on a mountain, characterized by formal complexity and contemporary materials. Designed to convey a sense of levitation through its massive volumes, the house appears to float as it tapers downward into slender columns that integrate with the natural topography.

Located on the southern slope of La Paz City, Bolivia, the house faces north to optimize exposure to the morning and afternoon sun. La Paz, with an average annual temperature of 12 ºC, necessitates careful solar orientation. The design prioritizes the panoramic views of the city, with many spaces oriented to maximize this visual connection.

all images courtesy of Alejandro Vazquez

Levitae House Incorporates Innovative Structural System

The architectural style of Levitae House can be described as Neo Deconstructivist, reflecting its complex morphology and innovative structural system. The house caters to a couple without children but with feline pets, incorporating a music studio, garden, barbecue area, parking for two vehicles, and green spaces both indoors and outdoors. The design also features double and triple-height spaces, providing a sense of openness within the compact 340 sqm plot.

The structural system presented significant challenges, as local engineers in La Paz had limited experience with inclined columns and large cantilevers. Standard labor construction practices added to the complexity. The designer’s presence was crucial during construction due to the intricate nature of the materials and structural elements used in the project.

Levitae House is perched on a mountain, showcasing formal complexity and contemporary materials

designed by Alejandro Vazquez, the structure creates a sense of levitation

Levitae House appears floating, blending harmoniously with the mountain’s natural landscape

Levitae House’s massive volumes taper into slender columns

double and triple-height spaces create a sense of openness within the 340 sqm plot

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project info:

name: Levitae House
architect: Alejandro Vazquez

location: La Paz City, Bolivia

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom