Sustainability

The Renato Santoro Arquitetura office, in partnership with FJ55 Arquitetos, was responsible for the design of a residential project that stands out both for its harmonious integration with nature and the use of sustainable materials and innovative construction techniques. Located in Aldeia da Serra, 40 km from São Paulo, the residence is a retreat for its resident, a professional in the events and gastronomy industry seeking to escape the hectic pace of the capital.

The Cabana Zero is the prototype of 11 shelters built to serve a spiritual retreat program in the mountainous region of Rio de Janeiro, based on the traditions of the indigenous peoples of the Peruvian Amazon.

Upon arriving at the site, it was surprising to find ourselves in front of the presence of three majestic trees located in the central place. At that moment, I imagined that the house should embrace those monumental conifers. They would be responsible for structuring the architecture and endowing it with the “time” factor, through the wrinkles of their bark, their transformations throughout the seasons, and their swaying with the wind.

When addressing the world’s broader problems—such as the climate emergency, energy crisis, and housing shortage—, we often seek sweeping, grand solutions that could tackle them all at once. As alluring as these ideas may be, they eventually run into the thousands of complexities and interconnections our world presents. But what if we sought more decentralized and domestic solutions? Chicago-based firm Tom Bassett-Dilley Architects has been pursuing just this, focusing on sustainable design, carbon-free and energy-efficient projects for residences, historical buildings, institutions, and commercial projects. In their Manifesto: The New American Dwelling, they argue that the single-family home, once the great American dream, needs to be redefined to emphasize minimalism, efficiency, health, connection with nature, durability, and personal kindness, moving away from wasteful, artificial, and toxic practices. We spoke with Tom Bassett-Dilley, FAIA, CPHC, LFA, and founder of the firm, about some aspects of their work.