Casa Sobre el Arroyo is a modernist jewel in Mar del Plata designed by Amancio Williams, a prominent architect of the Modern Movement in Argentina. Built for the architect’s father, celebrated composer Alberto Williams, the house straddles a stream, creating a bridge over both sides of the surrounding landscape. Casa Sobre el Arroyo was abandoned after the architect’s death in 1989. The site faces several preservation challenges, including insufficient funding for its maintenance, vandalism, and a 2004 fire that destroyed its interior. On September 21, 2012, a Watch Day celebration was held at Casa Sobre el Arroyo, highlighting the light, form, and sounds associated with the design and construction of the house. Visitors of all ages had an opportunity to enjoy the lush landscape and participate in drawing, painting, and photography contests, and a presentation of the history and current challenges to preserve the site.
During Watch Day 2012, visitors explore the site while a rendition of Alberto Williams’ Hueyas op.33 plays in the background, recreating some of the sounds that filled the house in the 1940s.
Local children display a sign celebrating their built heritage and community pride.
An audience learns about the importance of Casa sobre el Arroyo in architectural history and the challenges of preserving it today.
Musicians perform at the Casa sobre el Arroyo Watch Day event.
No celebration in Argentina would be complete without tango dancing! Dancers Alejandra Domínguez and Emilio Montoya perform Quejas de Bandoneón (“The Bandoneón's Woes”), by famous tango composer Juan de Dios Filiberto, a student of Williams.
Local residents create paintings of the famed house and landscape.
Images of Casa sobre el Arroyo, captured by local photographers, are displayed for all to enjoy.
Casa sobre el Arroyo, a modernism marvel, is interpreted by a local artist.
