A new residential and commercial development called Camellia has been completed in Villa Allende, Argentina, demonstrating innovative approaches to mixed-use architecture in urban residential areas. The project, designed by Estudio I LZ under the leadership of architect Pablo Lorenzo, combines six two-bedroom residential units with commercial space on a compact 600-square-meter plot.
The complex is strategically located north of Villa Allende's central area, taking advantage of proximity to existing service infrastructure and retail establishments. The development responds to the area's ongoing urban renewal while maintaining compatibility with the predominantly residential character of the neighborhood. Each residential unit occupies 65 square meters and follows a two-story layout that maximizes the use of limited space.
The architectural design emphasizes functional separation between private and social areas within each unit. The upper floors house the private quarters, including two bedrooms and a full bathroom, while the ground level accommodates the main living areas. These include an open-plan kitchen and living room, a powder room, and direct access to both front and rear courtyards that extend the living space outdoors.
The design team, which included Ana Laura Rivas, Guadalupe Navarro, Josefina Nevado Funes, Antonella Persico, Paloma Pringles, Francisco Artigas, Florencia Sanchez Bono, Emilia Bonetti, Francisca Rosa, Celeste Miret, Agostina Tavella, and Mariano Villafañe, focused on creating a development that balances density with livability. The project incorporates various building materials and systems from manufacturers including Masisa, Ariston, Blangino, Cerámica Santiago, and others to achieve both aesthetic and functional goals.
Photography of the completed project by Gonzalo Viramonte showcases how the development integrates contemporary architectural elements while respecting the scale and character of the surrounding neighborhood. The Camellia complex represents a growing trend in Argentine architecture toward well-designed mixed-use developments that address urban housing needs while supporting local commercial activity.
