In a countryside estate in Córdoba, Argentina, lies a retreat that frames views of the mountainous natural landscape of Sierras Grandes and the San Javier town. Built for the event company Finca La Juliana, the concrete architecture is designed and positioned thoughtfully with the intent of accommodating couples. Designed by architect Paul Dragicevic, the building facilitates privacy and serenity amidst a series of charming vineyards, comprising spacious sleeping quarters with an en-suite bathroom within a 70 sq.m. built area. A large clearing separates the built environment from the vast landscape, connecting the site to the town and nearby landmarks while acting as a helipad.

The respite stands as an isolated concrete monolith within the subtropical landscape with no nearby structures, emphasising its cuboidal volume. With its south facade buried in a steep, rocky hill, the building extends north to capture panoramic views and prevent cold winds. The placement and orientation of the building also facilitate three distinct levels to accommodate various functions despite being a single-storey building. The semi-open area cantilevers from the edge of the building, shading a parking space below, and the rooftop accommodates a jacuzzi, a deck and a vantage point to savour the views. Steps embedded in the slope connect all the levels at play, allowing users to slow down as they navigate and engage in activities.

The building maintains a cuboidal geometry in every detail, from the layout and openings to the forms and structure. Breaking this geometry is the spacious bathroom that protrudes from the structure at an angle, adding visual interest. The heavy beams, while providing structural integrity, become distinct architectural elements that contribute to the overall architectural character of the building. The inverted beams on the lower slab act as parapet walls for the balcony, while the upper-level beams provide shading from the harsh sun and frame the scenic views.

The unique typology of the building informs its internal layout and spatial design, as the entrance to the quarters separates the space into two zones. A small pantry on the south leads to the basin and the shower cubicle, featuring a large glass window to visually enlarge the compact space. Textured glass and wooden doors provide privacy for the shower and water closet areas. The north zone of the quarters comprises an open, uninterrupted space for lounging, sleeping and reading. The space facilitates views of the east and the north while blocking the sunlight from the west, ensuring a cosy and private living experience. The spacious northward balcony receives ample natural light in the winter for warmth and ensures a shaded space during the summers.

The use of exposed concrete makes for easy upkeep of the building and achieves a minimalist aesthetic. The parking area, steps and terrace areas are defined by loose pebbles for a similar purpose, complementing the rocky and muddy natural landscape. The interior design is characterised by popular boards, which are used to provide thermal insulation while acting as a suitable backdrop for bespoke wooden furnishings.

The Lodge JR—by catering to the needs of the user group—is a prime example of its building typology. Taking advantage of its isolated position within the vast, picturesque Argentinian landscape, the Spanish architect meticulously crafts the brutalist architecture with simple forms that are bound to stand out as a sculptural design. By using the structure as its distinctive aesthetic, the building eliminates the need for additional interventions for facade design and highlights its contemporary architecture as a statement.

Project Details

Name: Lodge JR
Location: Yacanto, Córdoba, Argentina
Architect: Paul Dragicevic
Landscape Architect: Amalia Funes
Client: Finca La Juliana
Area: 70 sq m
Year of Completion: 2025