Our references

Our

references

The Spanish projects of Gie Wollaert (Belgian architect H.A.I.R. 1978) are strongly influenced by the so called Tropical modernism with a reference to the Moorish heritage in Andalusia. The main characteristics of this architecture are:

Namely the responsiveness to the local and actual climate. The design approach incorporates passive cooling strategies, such as:

- Natural ventilation: in this case achieved by a large surface of opening windows, and the integration of a patio that allows intense air circulation within the house.

- Shading: in this case achieved by the wide roof overhangs and the large area of covered terraces.

- Water features: in this case, not only the swimming pool but also the compensation tank of the infinity pool executed as a cooling water features.

The use of local materials is a hallmark of tropical modernism, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and a respect for local traditions. In this case: on the one hand, natural stone facades and floors as we often find in the Andalusian heritage, on the other, the plasterd facades of the white villages that dominate the Andalusian landscape.

Of course this architecture evolves also with the current state of technology. For example: we replace the traditional lime mixture on the facades, that was common in previous centuries, with an insulated silicon plaster.

We also increasingly take into account the consequences of climate change, in this case the increasing occurrence of the calima, an African desert storm that brings the desert sand as far as Spain. The change from the typical white plaster to a sand color is therefore not only an easthetic evolution.

One of the quintessential features of tropical modernism is the blurring of indoor and outdoor spaces to promote natural ventilation and a sense of openness. This is achieved by the use of large openings, courtyards and other transitional spaces, which encourage the flow of air and the extension of living spaces into the landscape.

The juxtaposition of modern and traditional elements creates a distinctive architectural language that reflects a synthesis of global modernist trends with local building traditions.

Monte Mayor F19 (under construction)

Monte Mayor F2 (2020)

Monte Mayor F11 (2017)

Monte Mayor H4 (2021)

Monte Mayor H4 (2021)

Monte Mayor F8 (under construction)

Monte Mayor B8 (2024)