Nestled within Uruguay’s wind-shaped coastal forests, La Secreta’s timeless architecture blends seamlessly with the striking coastal panorama. Generous spaces, expansive sliding doors, and atmospheric lighting create a harmonious retreat that unites comfort, privacy, and ocean views.
| Type of Building | Private Home |
| Product areas | Sliding doors |
| Schüco Systems | ASS 39 PD.NI |
| Features | New build |
| Location | Montevideo, Uruguay |
| Completion | 2022 |
| Architects | Grimaldi Nacht Architects |
| Specialist company | ALUFRAN S.A. |
| Picture credits | © Javier Agustín Rojas |
The architectural concept by Grimaldi and Nacht celebrates the beauty of the coastal landscape, responding not only to the site but skillfully integrating the surroundings into the design. A three-meter-high dune embankment borders the property toward the sea, while a curved stone wall at the front invitingly leads to the main entrance of the house. The living areas on the upper floor are arranged around a central courtyard, which serves as a calm focal point of the residence. With its elevated structure, La Secreta creates a seamless dialogue between interior and exterior spaces, the ocean, and the natural environment.
A spectacular panoramic view defines the spatial experience, turning the surroundings into an integral part of living: stretching across the 16-metre façade, the living and dining area opens entirely towards the coast through the seamlessly integrated ASS 39 PD.NI sliding system. The aluminium system is ideally suited to demanding coastal conditions, offering outstanding resistance to corrosion from saltwater and sand, as well as stability under high wind loads. Floor-to-ceiling glazing maximises transparency and natural light, offering an unobstructed view of the dunes and the sea. The result is a breathtaking outlook across the vast South American horizon, where sunsets bathe the ocean in golden hues and everyday life quietly recedes into the background.
The basic structure of the house rises from the landscape, creating a spacious ground floor dedicated to leisure and communal activities, including a barbecue area, outdoor fireplace, and dining space. Surrounded by a stone garden, a natural transition emerges that connects architecture and nature without altering the landscape character. The solid exterior walls, designed for privacy, ensure discretion. Alongside an elevated gallery and a sheltered pool, the patio-centered layout unfolds like a modern cloister – featuring the master bedroom to the south, additional rooms to the north, and service areas to the east.
