A Shingle-Clad Prefab Anchors Itself on Patagonia’s Largest Lake

Prefab construction makes it possible for SAA Arquitectura + Territorio to build this impressive retreat in a remote region.

The architects created a simple, shed-like refuge so as to not detract from the surrounding environment.

In wild, rugged Patagonia, Chilean architectural firm SAA Arquitectura + Territorio has crafted a comfortable and contemporary home in a notoriously inhospitable environment where access to materials and labor is limited.

Set on the shores of Patagonia's largest lake, Casa Sombreros is located near the village of Puerto Rio Tranquilo, four hours south of Aysen Region's capital of Coyhaique.

The challenges posed by the remote terrain were a tradeoff for the site’s spellbinding beauty. The Santiago–based client selected a spot on the shores of the largest lake in Patagonia, Lake General Carrera, for its turquoise-blue waters, snow-capped granite mountains, and glittering glaciers in the distance.