In the heart of Buenos Aires' San Telmo neighborhood stands a timeless masterpiece - the Forner-Bigatti House Workshop. Designed in 1937 by the visionary architect Alejo Martínez, this gem seamlessly intertwines the living and working spaces of two revered Argentine artists, painter Raquel Forner and sculptor Alfredo Bigatti. Set against the backdrop of Plaza Coronel Dorrego, this iconic residence tells a story of spatial innovation and artistic collaboration.
(Photo: Cortesía de Fundación Forner-Bigatti)
The Architectural Canvas
Alejo Martínez embarked on the challenge of crafting a residence and workspace for Forner and Bigatti on a modest 176-square-meter plot. This plot, located at 443 Bethlem Street, presented constraints and opportunities for the architect. The resulting design, however, showcased Martínez's ingenuity in maximizing space while preserving a small garden area - a testament to the harmonious fusion of architecture and nature.
During the era of its conception, combining artists' living spaces with their studios was a common architectural theme. However, the Forner-Bigatti House distinguishes itself by housing independent studios for two artists specializing in different disciplines. The compact floor plan strategically divides private living spaces from the dedicated artistic zones, balancing personal sanctuaries and communal workspaces.
Vertical Connectivity
With the challenge of accommodating two workshops on a limited plot, Martínez introduced a vertical axis of connectivity. A void, measuring 3.90 by 4.50 meters, bridges the workshops on both levels. This double height serves as a visual and acoustic link, allowing seamless communication between the artists while preserving the autonomy of their creative realms. The innovative void also caters to the specific needs of sculptor Alfredo Bigatti, offering the necessary height for crafting large sculptures.
Architectural Theories in Action
The Forner-Bigatti House Workshop reflects several architectural theories characteristic of its period. Martínez embraced compact floor layouts, rejected ornamental elements, prioritized the purity of junctions, emphasized planes as expressive elements, and played with spatial asymmetry. The design resonates with cubist composition and abstracts the ensemble, contributing to its enduring aesthetic appeal.
(Photo: Cortesía de Fundación Forner-Bigatti)
A Living Legacy
Today, the Forner-Bigatti House Workshop serves as the headquarters of the Forner-Bigatti Foundation, a non-profit institution dedicated to preserving and promoting the artistic legacy of Raquel Forner and Alfredo Bigatti. The Foundation hosts various public activities, including courses and exhibitions, and provides a valuable resource for those researching Argentine art through its specialized library and documentation center.
Fulfilling a Vision
The Forner-Bigatti Foundation, established in 1982, embodies the vision of Raquel Forner. Concerned about the fate of her and her husband's works after their passing, she laid the Foundation to transform their home into a museum house. The Board of Directors diligently carries out this vision, ensuring the continuation of the artistic journey within the walls of the Forner-Bigatti House Workshop.
The Forner-Bigatti House Workshop is a testament to architecture and art's timeless marriage. Alejo Martínez's design, an exemplar of spatial innovation and sensitivity, provides a glimpse into a bygone era while remaining relevant in the contemporary architectural landscape. As the Forner-Bigatti Foundation carries forward the artistic legacy, the house workshop continues to inspire, inviting enthusiasts to witness the harmonious coexistence of creativity and structure.
