The initial impression on this site was the majestic presence of the oak trees, Quercus laurina, as a pillar for the balance and diversity of the ecosystem. Their branches are the habitat for ferns, orchids, bromeliads, and their fallen leaves nourish the soil, allowing other species to grow under their light foliage. How to learn from the forest and how to inhabit it?

This project reveals a garden drawn by hardwood and forest species. Simple moments were built as subtle wayfinding features: meandering paths between the existing trees, a terraced playground and wooden steps from fallen trees. The elevated house is surrounded by a lush garden where elderflowers and passifloras reach the terraces’ height. A collection of clay pots was planted with Japanese and Mexican forest species. The site benefits from an intermittent stream, where a series of water-retaining walls and a circular pool were built with gabion and stone walls to allow the rainwater to infiltrate the ground and enjoy its volatile presence.