Urban Framework Part 1 Project 2009 Diego TolottoGonzalo Santoro University of Palermo Buenos Aires | Argentina As a response to the problematic stated in our workshops, we developed a project based on two type of houses which, united by patios, conform a block which might be repeated as many times as needed in order to create an urban framework.One of the basic objectives was to maintain the density, scale and general characteristics of the neighborhood but, at the same time, optimize space and cost improving the life style and commodities for the users.Based on the orientation of the lot, we decided to use a lower volume for the northern houses and a two level volume for the southern ones. So, using this general volumetric scheme we can repeat the block without having to alter the project due to orientation problems.We decided to use a type of house which evolves around patios. A space which is essential in modern architecture and has been imposing itself in these last years of Argentinean architecture. Through out these spaces we create a relation between the outside and inside and, at the same time, give flexibility to the project thanks to possible expansions of spaces and their various uses. In search for a material expression and time of construction, we decided to use only two materials, concrete and glass. We obtained “clean” spaces with long views characterized by the heights of each space and the atmosphere crated by the natural light and raw material.In other to improve the views and the environmental side of the project, we decided to use a green roof, which generate green areas and, at the same time, contribute to the thermal insulation and control of the house. The growth scheme of house typology in Buenos Aires has been, basically in the last years, a search for extreme densification of urban framework from the center towards the suburbs, advancing at gigantic steps.Ether with a high or low density, the city roll is to support and contain spaces of reduced activities.The exercise looks to compare different densifications, maintaining the scale and character of the neighborhood but using at full capacity the urban infrastructure.This work, inserted on a half-size block, aims to create and develop, under one unique operation, a new structure of interior and exterior, full and empty spaces.The result is a new urban structure based on houses with patios which, by repetition, occupy the city and recovers the traditional scale and improves the environmental quality. Tutor(s) Mario Zambonini