Foster + Partners is designing a sustainable masterplan for Maratué, on the Puchuncaví coast in Chile. The project for Inmobiliaria Maratué will enhance the significant 1,045-hectare site, reconnecting the existing town of Puchuncaví with the coastline, and conserving the spectacular natural landscape. The masterplan includes the development of 14,000 new homes, with over 2,000 designated for social housing.
Juan Frigerio, Partner, Foster + Partners, said: “Our sustainable masterplan will protect, connect, and enhance Maratué. We are creating a vibrant green spine that weaves its way across the site and seamlessly connects Puchuncaví with the Pacific Ocean. With 650 hectares of conservation areas, public parks, and open spaces, the natural landscape drives the masterplan design, tying together the different neighbourhoods and giving them a unique identity.”
The project creates new residential neighbourhoods: one is located alongside Puchuncaví and the other is positioned closer to the coast. Each of the new neighbourhoods is divided into three human-scale clusters and features a green heart, which connects with a landscaped spine that runs directly through the centre of the site. This approach ensures that green corridors are fully integrated into the urban spaces – providing environmental and social benefits for residents –and enhancing connectivity across the whole masterplan. The green spine bridges an existing highway, which cuts across the middle of the site, and reconnects Puchuncaví with the beach.
Areas with ecological value are carefully preserved and lightly enhanced with accessible pathways, wildlife observatories, and wetland parks. The green hearts of the new neighbourhoods offer more structured landscaping, with a range of outdoor activities and social spaces for residents to enjoy. Wellbeing is central to the masterplan concept and residents will always be a five-minute walk away from a green area.
The new coastal neighbourhood includes residences with ocean views and hospitality, which will attract new visitors to Maratué. A wide green buffer zone sets back buildings from the coastal cliff edge and features walking and cycling trails to create an active waterfront – while protecting natural habitats and wildlife.
