gabriel rivera's 'el picadero' intervention elevates ecuador horse farm

Jun 05, 2023

Located in the picturesque Andes Mountains of Cotopaxi, Ecuador, lies ‘El Picadero,’ a newly completed project by Gabriel Rivera Arquitectos. Found within the agricultural neighborhood of Lasso, this project embraces its surroundings, defined by the cold climate, sandy soil, and dense Andean vegetation — eucalyptus trees have flourished in the area, adorning the landscape with their lush canopies. Set on a rectangular 5,000 square-meter lot, the brickwork project finds its place amidst the nature, with the property's main house occupying its eastern border and an array of stables to the west. The luminous architecture has been photographed by JAG studio upon its completion.

images © JAG Studio | @jag_studio

With the design of El Picadero, Gabriel Rivera Arquitectos’ main goal was to create a space that would bridge the gap between the main house and the stables on site. This connective zone would consist of a jumping arena for horses, a service area, and a flexible space that could evolve over time, eventually transforming into four suites with a common area.

To fulfill this vision while considering the context and client's needs, the architects embarked on a comprehensive site analysis. This analysis examined factors such as orientation, views encompassing the Cotopaxi volcano and Los Ilinizas, natural surroundings, access roads, existing structures, and topography.

Drawing upon the insights gained from the site analysis, Gabriel Rivera Arquitectos ensured that El Picadero would harmoniously integrate into its existing environment. The jumping track, designed for efficient training, was strategically positioned in the area with minimal vegetation, oriented north to south. The services and flexible recreation space were consolidated together into a single structure situated alongside the riding arena. This placement both captured picturesque views and worked to preserve the existing trees. Furthermore, the construction, with its longitudinal facades oriented toward the sunlight, skillfully separated itself from the natural topography to help drain water and humidity during heavy rainfall.

The construction of El Picadero took one year to reach its completion. The main structure, constructed with modular steel, elegantly rests upon reinforced concrete plinths. The floor slab incorporates a radiant heating system, ensuring a comfortable and warm atmosphere within. To enhance the aesthetic appeal, the interiors show a eucalyptus wood ceiling, installed over a steel substructure finished with clay tiles on its exterior surface.

The eastern facade is made up of local brick surfaces and laminated glass panels, and faces the jumping ring backdropped by views of the Cotopaxi volcano. Meanwhile, the laminated glass of the western facade is shaded by a wooden brise-soleil, to ensure comfortable interiors on sunny days. This facade welcomes the afternoon sun while opening out to a sweeping vista of the Ilinizas Mountains.

the structure includes fully enclosed interiors and a shaded garden ‘El Picadero’ connects and bridges a home and its stables on site