Imagine a serene cabin nestled in the heart of the Galápagos Islands, designed to blend seamlessly with its environment. This is SULA, a remarkable prefabricated cabin constructed in Quito, Ecuador, and transported to Santa Cruz Island. Crafted from a mix of wood, PVC, metal, stone, and glass, SULA stands as a testament to innovative, eco-friendly design. In this article, we delve into the fascinating details of SULA, its construction, design philosophy, and the unique materials that make it a marvel of modern architecture.
SULA was envisioned by architect Diana Salvador as more than just a cabin; it’s a peaceful retreat and a functional living space. Designed for a family who has lived on the Galápagos Islands for over forty years, SULA needed to be harmonious with its natural surroundings and minimize ecological impact.
The name SULA is derived from the suliformes bird genus, commonly known as “piqueros” in Spanish. This choice reflects a deep respect for the local wildlife and the natural beauty of the Galápagos Islands.
One of the primary goals in designing SULA was to minimize its ecological footprint. By prefabricating the cabin offsite, the construction process avoided any potential harm to the delicate island terrain.
What sets SULA apart is its scalability and adaptability. Much like a large-scale LEGO set, its components can be disassembled, relocated, and reassembled in different environments and landscapes. This design ensures that SULA can adapt to various locations without leaving a lasting impact on the soil.
The prefabrication of SULA took place in Quito, Ecuador, where over 2000 custom-made components were meticulously crafted. These pieces were then joined together using 17,000 screws and pins, ensuring a sturdy and reliable structure.
Once the prefabrication was complete, the components were transported in two trucks from Quito to the Guayaquil port. From there, they were shipped in containers to Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island, ready for assembly.
The assembly of SULA on Santa Cruz Island was a swift process, taking only a month. With the help of four plant technicians and six itinerant experts from the mainland, the cabin was brought to life, standing proudly amidst the lush landscape.
The construction of SULA utilized innovative techniques to ensure both efficiency and environmental harmony. The use of gavions as foundations allows for easy disassembly with minimal impact on the soil, preserving the natural terrain.
Plywood was predominantly used for the structure, ceiling, interior walls, and furniture of SULA. Its efficiency and versatility make it an ideal choice for this prefabricated cabin.
The roofs of SULA are made from PVC sheets, which serve as waterproof umbrellas, enhancing the cabin’s resilience against the elements. These sheets ensure that SULA remains durable and weather-resistant.
Metal, stone, and glass were also incorporated into the design, adding both strength and aesthetic appeal to the cabin. These materials were chosen for their durability and their ability to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
Elevating the structure of SULA allows for air currents to form a cold air chamber underneath, providing natural ventilation. This design ensures a comfortable living environment even in the warm climate of the Galápagos Islands.
Perforations in the floor and walls of SULA permit cross-ventilation, further enhancing the cabin’s natural cooling system. This innovative approach to ventilation keeps the interior comfortable without the need for artificial air conditioning.
SULA’s use of gavions as foundations is a prime example of its commitment to sustainability. These structures can be easily disassembled, minimizing their impact on the environment and preserving the natural beauty of the island.
The ability to disassemble and relocate SULA makes it a model of sustainable living. This flexibility ensures that the cabin can adapt to different environments, providing a comfortable and eco-friendly living space wherever it goes.
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