Nestled in the outskirts of Quito, Ecuador, Selva Alegre is a remarkable private residence that blends wood, stone, and glass, creating a spectacular connection with its natural surroundings
Spanning 450 square metres on a 4,524 square metre plot, Selva Alegre was built between 2016 and 2020 in Los Chillos, a rural area of Quito boasting unspoiled natural beauty and breathtaking views. These views were the primary inspiration for the home’s design: a single-story structure evoking the spirit of a traditional hacienda ranch, yet with a bold, modern twist. The house cleverly uses varying ceiling heights to define distinct interior spaces, maximises natural light through large windows and skylights, and incorporates numerous sustainable design elements.
The interior layout divides social and private spaces, separated by a bridge spanning the indoor-outdoor pool. A central, covered patio serves as the heart of the home, acting as a hub that connects the various rooms and houses the main social area—a natural gathering point for family and friends. The all-important kitchen, integral to family life, is strategically positioned to connect seamlessly with the living area and garden.
The concept of creating unique, nature-integrated spaces inspired the use of panoramic windows, with each one framing a carefully curated vista of the exterior, providing varying perspectives of the landscape. The undulating roofline echoes the forms of the surrounding mountains, further enhancing the visual harmony.
This continuous, flowing roofline acts as a protective canopy over the entire structure. Laminated wood was chosen for its flexibility and the warm, natural ambiance it provides. The roof’s triangulated structure allowed for efficient assembly and facilitated transport to this somewhat remote location.
Computer modelling simplified construction by enabling the repetition of specific beams. Locally sourced stone from a nearby quarry visually links the structure to its environment, reinforcing the home’s connection to the land.
Selva Alegre was conceived and designed by architects Gabriela Anker and Aaron Leppanen, of the Leppanen Anker Arquitectura studio (www.leppanenanker.com), with contributions from: Insólito (interior design); EDIMCA (structural design); Highlights (lighting); Mónica Bodenhorst (landscaping); and the engineering and construction team of Miguel Ángel Salazar, Francisco Vélez, Fabian Miño, Milton Perugachi, Rodrigo Lalaguaña, and Alberto Dionicio.
