QL.- Houseee
Nestled in the heart of Gualaceo, this villa harmoniously frames the breathtaking valley views, creating a serene retreat that celebrates the beauty of its natural surroundings.
Company
Juan Izquierdo Architects
Location
Gualaceo, Ecuador
Role
Architectural Designer
Date
Sept. 2024
Gualaceo, Ecuador
Sept. 2024
About
QL House is a high-end vacation residence located in the valley of Gualaceo, near Cuenca, Ecuador. The project was shaped primarily by the site’s steep slopes, which required an architectural strategy focused on adaptation rather than imposition. Existing platforms and structural elements were preserved and reinterpreted, allowing the house to be organized into three staggered levels that respond directly to the terrain.
QL House is a high-end vacation residence located in the valley of Gualaceo, near Cuenca, Ecuador. The project was shaped primarily by the site’s steep slopes, which required an architectural strategy focused on adaptation rather than imposition. Existing platforms and structural elements were preserved and reinterpreted, allowing the house to be organized into three staggered levels that respond directly to the terrain.
Spatial strategy
The house is structured through a clear vertical sequence, where each platform hosts a specific program. The lower level integrates an indoor pool embedded into the landscape, the intermediate platform contains the main social area designed for gatherings and openness, and the upper level accommodates the private living spaces, intentionally separated to ensure comfort and functionality. This layered organization reinforces both circulation clarity and spatial hierarchy.
The house is structured through a clear vertical sequence, where each platform hosts a specific program. The lower level integrates an indoor pool embedded into the landscape, the intermediate platform contains the main social area designed for gatherings and openness, and the upper level accommodates the private living spaces, intentionally separated to ensure comfort and functionality. This layered organization reinforces both circulation clarity and spatial hierarchy.
Ground Floor
Social Area
First Floor Plan
Private Area
Roof Plan
Interior & Experience
Architecture and interior design were developed simultaneously, allowing spaces and furniture to be designed as a single system. Large openings, open-plan layouts, and carefully selected materials frame uninterrupted valley views while maintaining a calm and refined atmosphere. The result is a residence that balances luxury, privacy, and landscape connection, where form, structure, and experience work together seamlessly.
Architecture and interior design were developed simultaneously, allowing spaces and furniture to be designed as a single system. Large openings, open-plan layouts, and carefully selected materials frame uninterrupted valley views while maintaining a calm and refined atmosphere. The result is a residence that balances luxury, privacy, and landscape connection, where form, structure, and experience work together seamlessly.