Susana Torre's House of Meanings: A Feminist Architectural Critique of Domestic Space

Between 1970 and 1972, Argentine architect Susana Torre conceived the House of Meanings project while in the United States, having studied at Columbia University, during the period of Argentina's Dirty War. Engaging with feminist culture, Torre's architecture highlights the roles of women. The House of Meanings is characterized by its parallel walls, which can be gradually finished, promoting adaptable living environments and challenging strict spatial separations. It critiques the isolating nature of functionalist designs, modern open layouts, and suburban zoning. Torre applied this philosophy to projects for private clients, such as a writer in Puerto Rico and a large family in Santo Domingo, focusing on community-oriented designs and multifunctional spaces that defy traditional hierarchies.