The 25 two-story houses were commissioned at the request of the Mapuche people themselves, and the architects, from the Undurraga Deves agency, say the houses will allow them to "take part in modern society without abandoning their identity," Argentinean newspaper Clarin says . The houses are inspired by the Mapuche "ruka" dwellings, made from tree trunks and branches. They are arranged in a row facing east, as the Mapuche prefer their front doors to greet the rising sun, and have shady, private interiors which contrast with a large outdoor communal area.