Kansas Project: Architecture Masterprize Winner in Nature

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Set against the verdant backdrop of Tigre, Buenos Aires, the Kansas project by Carla Bechelli Arquitectos invites visitors into a world where architecture and nature exist in perfect harmony. Designed with the environment in mind, the restaurant integrates lush greenery, water features, and open spaces to create a serene yet dynamic experience. This approach to blending built and natural elements recently earned the project the Architecture Masterprize Best of Best award, a testament to its thoughtful design.

A Natural Palette of Materials

The Kansas project celebrates the raw beauty of natural materials. Exposed concrete, left in its purest form, serves as the foundation of the structure, emphasizing clean lines and simplicity. Stone walls add texture and depth, creating a tactile contrast to the expansive glass surfaces that define the building. These transparent facades connect the interiors with the surrounding landscape, fostering a seamless indoor-outdoor relationship. Water, a recurring motif, punctuates the design, appearing in reflecting pools, fountains, and a central rill, reinforcing the sense of tranquility.

Diverse Spaces, Unified Experiences

The restaurant offers a variety of spaces, each carefully crafted to enhance the visitor’s journey. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a reception area featuring a striking wine cellar and views of a water fountain beneath a large eave. The bar area is equally compelling, with a sculptural wine glass rack and an open kitchen that invites guests to witness the artistry of food preparation. The main hall features an organic arrangement of hanging lights and tables surrounded by the gentle murmur of water. For private gatherings, a flexible event room opens fully to connect with the main hall and its outdoor expansion, culminating in a serene water feature surrounded by trees. The outdoor gallery, lined with tables, offers views of the reflecting pool and surrounding landscaping, ensuring nature remains at the heart of the dining experience.

Merging Light, Landscape, and Function

One of the most striking elements of the Kansas project is its interplay of natural light and landscape. Three distinct patios, each with its own trees and water features, act as transitional spaces that blur the boundaries between exterior and interior. These areas invite nature into the design, enriching the sensory experience for visitors. The thoughtful arrangement of light, water, and greenery fosters a calming yet stimulating environment, where every corner feels connected to the outdoors.

A Reflection of Place and Spirit

Carla Bechelli Arquitectos has designed a project that resonates deeply with its surroundings. By prioritizing timelessness and functionality, the firm has created a space that reflects the essence of Tigre’s riverside setting. The Kansas project is not just a restaurant; it’s a celebration of the relationship between architecture, nature, and the people who inhabit these spaces.