Architecturally designed by the acclaimed Martin Gomez Arquitectos, the Big Fish house in Punta del Este, Uruguay, stands as a shining example of sustainable, nature-inspired design. Situated on an irregular strip of land near the dunes and sea, this 2021-built residence preserves the captivating wild surroundings through a raised, light-touch approach. The ground plan rests on pillars, creating a space for garages and services while allowing the local vegetation to thrive beneath the upper, flying volume.

About Big Fish
Located in the captivating seaside community of José Ignacio, Uruguay, the “Big Fish” house by Martin Gomez Arquitectos represents a harmonious integration with the wild, natural surroundings. Situated on an irregularly-shaped plot (approximately 0.4 acres or 0.16 hectares) formed by the proximity to the dunes and the sea, the design team prioritized preserving the pristine coastal landscape. Elevating for Unobstructed Sea Views
To minimize the project’s impact on the existing environment, the house is raised on a series of pillars, effectively elevating the living spaces and offering unobstructed views of the ocean. This strategic placement creates a ground-level area for garages and services, which is seamlessly incorporated into the natural vegetation.
Courtyard-Centric Design
The house’s volumetric design follows a pure, refined aesthetic, where an extraction operation has resulted in a large, central...