AKA Patagonia Hotel by Larrou Architects

The AKA Patagonia hotel is located on a rural site north of Puerto Natales and is made up of 6 pre-fabricated wooden modules. With the vast percentage of the construction done in a controlled environment, factors such as waste and disruption to the landscape are key considerations for sites such as these.

All modules were built on piles to have the lowest impact on the site and were strategically positioned to frame the panoramic views and to obtain the maximum level of natural light during the day.

Pale wood from the native lenga tree covers the walls and roof, and forms the pathway decking. The architect Larrou chose the wood because it is well equipped to withstand the weather conditions of the area. It has been left unfinished so it will weather over time.

Sustainability specs:
– Modular construction completed offsite
– Pile footings used to minimise disruption to natural environment
– Locally sourced timber used extensively
– Timber is left unfinished

The project was born from this concept; encounter and contrast, an architecture that emerges from the earth and becomes part of nature, breaks that rise up like mountains, volcanoes and glaciers on the horizon of Puerto Natales. AKA Patagonia is a tribute to the landscape.