casa etérea is an off-grid glass house set on the slopes of an extinct volcano in mexico

MA House, designed by architects Eduardo Cadaval and Clara Solà-Morales, is situated in Tepoztlán, a pre-Hispanic village south of Mexico City known for its natural environment and as a cultural retreat. This project functions as a holiday home, with future plans for it to become the owners' primary residence. The design emphasizes a strong connection between the structure, the surrounding landscape, and its inhabitants, achieving this through a combination of geometric forms and strategic material use. The house features monumental construction using volcanic stone and concrete. Its two diagonal peaks mirror the incline of the rocky mountains flanking the site, integrating the building into its natural surroundings while establishing a distinct architectural presence. To maximize the relationship with the outdoors, framed windows open up mountain views to the interior. Covered patios are strategically placed to intersect diagonally across the square plan, connecting three distinct 'pavilions' under a single, solid concrete roof. This layout creates natural outdoor living spaces that are integrated into the home's circulation. The primary construction material is locally sourced volcanic stone, which authentically links the house to its environmental context. The architects selected this material for its low maintenance and cost-effectiveness, despite the inherent challenges in using it structurally. The walls are 40cm thick and bear the entire load of the house, highlighting the principle that every element serves a functional purpose, rather than being mere decoration. This structural use of volcanic stone was a significant technical challenge for the design team. In addition to volcanic stone, the roof is constructed from waterproof concrete, which the architects chose to leave exposed without any additional finishes. This decision further reinforces the economical and functional approach to materials, allowing the raw beauty and inherent qualities of the construction elements to define the aesthetic. The diagonal patios and the sloping roof contribute to dynamic interplay of light and shadow throughout the day, adding to the house's visual interest and its connection to natural cycles. The interior design was a collaborative effort, with one of the clients contributing to the scheme. Double-height windows are prominent, specifically designed to prioritize views of the mountain range. The layout, comprising three pavilions linked by covered patios, facilitates a fluid experience between indoor and outdoor spaces. Bedrooms are oriented to face the mountain views, enhancing the residents' connection to the landscape. The exposure of raw materials internally defines a natural and authentic atmosphere within the home. Overall, MA House exemplifies an architectural approach that prioritizes structural integrity, material authenticity, and an immersive relationship with its natural setting. The design by Cadaval & Solà-Morales successfully navigates the complexities of integrating a modern structure into a sensitive landscape, utilizing local resources and thoughtful planning to create a residence that is both visually striking and functionally robust. #MexicanArchitecture #VolcanicStone #CadavalSolaMorales #SustainableDesign #ResidentialArchitecture #ConcreteArchitecture #Tepoztlan #LandscapeIntegration #HolidayHome

Architect Fernanda Canales undertook the challenge of creating a self-sufficient vacation home for her family on a remote plateau in Valle de Bravo, Mexico, known for its exceptional landscapes and temperamental weather. The project, named Casa Terreno, aimed to blend with the wild surroundings while offering refuge from significant temperature variations and heavy rainfall. Canales focused on passive house principles, utilizing materials with high thermal mass like brick and concrete to ensure resilience and energy efficiency. Casa Terreno, a single-story residence spanning almost 6,500 square feet, is meticulously designed around four courtyards to maximize landscape views and solar exposure from various directions. The first courtyard, with its curved shape, acts as an entry point leading into a brick, sky-lit chamber featuring a dramatic vaulted ceiling. This chamber connects to the central, largest courtyard, which in turn provides access to the east-facing bedroom wing and the southern living areas. A third courtyard on the south side offers rooftop access, while the smallest courtyard is designated for the service area. These courtyards are instrumental in creating distinct atmospheres, framing specific exterior views, and facilitating cross-ventilation and natural sunlight throughout the day. To introduce architectural diversity and additional height within the interior, certain sections of the home are topped with terra cotta-tiled barrel vaults. These vaults not only contribute to the aesthetic but also interact with the vegetation on the flat green roofs above the kitchen and service areas, creating a unique topography. The design incorporates varied sequences and openings, including lattices for privacy, large windows that can fully retract into walls to convert interior spaces into open terraces, and strategically placed windows that frame particular views. This ensures that every room benefits from direct sunlight from at least two directions. The home's energy demands are minimized through reliance on natural lighting, cross-ventilation, and wood-burning fireplaces, eliminating the need for mechanical heating or cooling systems. Solar energy powers electricity and hot water. The barrel roofs are engineered to funnel rainwater into a substantial 26,000-gallon underground cistern, and all sewage is treated on-site. The use of locally sourced brick, with broken bricks exposing their rough sides for textured wall surfaces, reinforces the connection to the region. Canales particularly appreciates that the single-level design of Casa Terreno allows it to seamlessly integrate into the landscape, almost disappearing into its natural environment. The project showcases a harmonious blend of architectural innovation, sustainable practices, and a deep respect for the surrounding wilderness. #OffGridLiving #SustainableArchitecture #MexicanArchitecture #PassiveHouseDesign #BarrelVaultCeilings #CourtyardHome #EcoFriendlyHome #RemoteRetreat #FernandaCanalesArquitectura

Taller General, an Ecuador-based architectural studio, has completed La Miradora, a residential project situated in the rural landscape of Machachi. The house is located at an altitude of 3,403 meters above sea level within the Páramo ecosystem, a tropical wetland region in the Andes. Its strategic positioning along the highest point of an elongated plot allows the dwelling to provide expansive views of a steep ravine, with a backdrop of meadows and distant volcanoes. The design of La Miradora is meticulously integrated with the land's natural slope, allowing for a two-level interior organization. The upper floor accommodates the main living areas for the primary residents, featuring wide windows that optimize natural light and ventilation. A loft on this level offers framed views of the surrounding volcanoes to the north and south. The lower level, designed to be smaller due to the terrain, provides additional rooms and service areas for visiting family members, ensuring functionality without compromising the house's compact appearance on the slope. The architects at Taller General prioritized both communal gathering spaces and individual privacy in the layout of La Miradora. The dwelling encourages interaction while offering secluded areas for residents and guests. Outdoor circulation is thoughtfully incorporated through a covered ramp that runs along one side of the house. This ramp provides direct exterior access to the main level and acts as a sheltered pathway, mediating between the interior and the outdoor environment, and offering a series of framed views of the Páramo landscape. Ecological performance was a key consideration in the design. La Miradora utilizes solar panels for electricity, and a sophisticated grey and black water treatment system. This system includes grease traps, a biodigester, and a wetland, ensuring that all water is treated before being released back into the ground. This closed-loop system mirrors the natural water cycle of the Páramo, emphasizing the project's commitment to environmental sustainability and minimizing its impact on the fragile ecosystem. The construction also minimizes waste by leaving materials exposed, such as wood, brick, and metal, thereby eliminating the need for additional coatings or plasters. This approach highlights the structural honesty of the building and reduces material consumption. The house's structure is characterized by an array of ten wooden ribs, spaced 2.44 meters apart. Each rib consists of four inclined elements that converge upwards, forming protective eaves and supporting the upper level. On the north side, these ribs rest on a brick base that conforms to the slope, while on the south side, they extend into durable metal members designed to withstand environmental elements and adapt to the terrain's gradient. This adaptable structural system allows for variations in rhythm to accommodate specific spatial requirements, such as the loft, and to maximize outward views. The combination of wood, brick, and metal creates a balanced aesthetic that conveys both shelter and exposure, durability and lightness. The extensive roofline and eaves offer protection to the timber and regulate sunlight penetration into the interior spaces, enhancing comfort and energy efficiency. Local craftsmen were integral to the project, contributing their skills in wood, metal, ceramics, and textiles for integrated lamps, furniture, and partitions, which further enrich the material expression of the house. #ResidentialArchitecture #EcuadorianArchitecture #SustainableDesign #PáramoEcosystem #VolcanoViews #NaturalMaterials #EcoFriendlyHome #Machachi #TallerGeneral

The ‘Santerra House,’ designed and constructed by Parma Arquitectura, is located in El Porvenir, in the heart of Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico. This residence showcases an innovative blend of rammed earth, burnt wood, and concrete, chosen specifically to respond to the region's arid climate. The project emphasizes sustainability, particularly through its use of earth as a primary building material. Rammed earth was selected for its low water consumption during construction, especially significant given the local dry conditions. A substantial portion of the earth used was sourced directly from the site through excavation, further reducing environmental impact. Beyond its minimal water requirements, rammed earth offers benefits such as humidity regulation and high thermal inertia. To capitalize on these properties, Parma Arquitectura implemented 40 cm thick rammed earth walls in all west-facing rooms, strategically placed to mitigate the high sun exposure experienced in the afternoons. The resulting texture and color variations of these walls organically integrate the house with its surrounding arid landscape, creating a harmonious aesthetic. Complementing the rammed earth, sections of the ‘Santerra House’ facades are clad in burnt wood, a technique known as ‘shou sugi ban.’ This traditional Japanese method enhances the wood’s durability and resistance while producing a rich spectrum of black tones that shift with the sunlight and viewing angle. This material choice not only contributes to the house’s resilience but also adds a distinctive visual character. The interior design of the dwelling is characterized by its minimalist approach, with a focus on functionality and connection to the outdoors. A key feature is the outdoor terrace, which acts as a natural extension of the living room, designed for social gatherings, meals, and family activities. This south-facing terrace is strategically enveloped by the building, providing shelter from strong winds. A wooden pergola covers the terrace, allowing sunlight to penetrate during the cooler winter months while offering ample shade in the hot summer, optimizing comfort throughout the year. Primarily conceived as a weekend retreat, the ‘Santerra House’ incorporates practical security features for when it is unoccupied. These include robust shutters and a wrought iron gate, ensuring the property remains secure. The architectural choices reflect a deep understanding of the local climate and an commitment to sustainable building practices, resulting in a residence that is both functional and aesthetically integrated with its environment. #SanterraHouse #RammedEarth #BurntWood #SustainableArchitecture #MexicanArchitecture #ValleDeGuadalupe #ParmaArquitectura #ThermalRegulation #ShouSugiBan

The Southwestern Residence, designed by smitharc architecture + interiors, is a modern home situated in a Dallas, Texas neighborhood characterized by bungalows. This residence was specifically created for retired empty-nesters, prioritizing privacy and a seamless indoor/outdoor living experience. The architectural design deliberately maintains a low-slung profile, consistent with the scale of the surrounding cottages, featuring a standing seam metal roof. A distinctive design element of the Southwestern Residence is the integration of clerestory windows along the front roofline. This architectural choice creates an optical illusion, making the roof appear as if it is floating above the main structure. Despite the extensive use of glass in its construction, the interior spaces of the home retain a high degree of privacy, achieved through the thoughtful and strategic placement of these windows. The rear of the house features a spacious covered patio, directly accessible from the open-plan kitchen and living room. This design facilitates an easy transition between indoor and outdoor environments, enhancing the home's suitability for an integrated lifestyle. The material palette used throughout the residence contributes to a relaxed and warm ambiance, both externally and internally. Key materials include Texas limestone, western red cedar, ipe wood decking, concrete pavers, insulated glass, and white oak flooring. Within the interior, a consistent aesthetic of neutral tones and light-colored woods is employed, contributing to a classic yet minimalist feel. The expansive glass panels serve a dual purpose: they allow abundant natural light to penetrate the home while simultaneously framing picturesque views of the verdant landscape that surrounds the property. This connection to the outdoors is a central theme in the home’s design. One of the defining features of the Southwestern Residence is its courtyard. The house is strategically wrapped around this central outdoor space on three sides, effectively creating a private oasis for the homeowners. This arrangement enhances seclusion and provides a tranquil outdoor area that is integral to the home’s overall layout and function. The design thoughtfully balances transparency with privacy, creating a contemporary living space that respects its context while offering a unique experience for its occupants. #ModernArchitecture #GlassHouse #TexasHome #IndoorOutdoorLiving #FloatingRoof #DallasArchitecture #SmitharcArchitecture #CourtyardHouse #ContemporaryDesign

The Dancing Light House, located in Paradise Valley, Arizona, is a striking architectural project designed by Kendle Design Collaborative. This residence deeply integrates with its desert environment, featuring geometric shapes that echo the surrounding mountains and using nature as a core influence for its aesthetic. Spanning 5,600 square feet across a single story, the home incorporates various outdoor living areas and is composed of distinct yet interconnected structures. A central design element of the Dancing Light House is its large, floating roof canopy. This sculptural feature provides protection from the elements while also serving as an aesthetic highlight, reflecting both the local geology and the distinctive monsoon cloud formations of the region. The underside of the canopy is lined with wood boards that appear to glow under the desert sun, creating a dynamic visual effect. The design team meticulously concealed lighting and mechanical systems to ensure that the focus remained on the canopy's form and natural materials. Internally, the canopy begins low in the living spaces and gradually ascends, drawing attention to the 180-degree views of Camelback Mountain. Beyond its architectural form, the house draws significant inspiration from natural light, which filters into the interiors through thoughtfully designed crevices. The internal layout is arranged around a central outdoor atrium, facilitating natural ventilation and allowing warm daylight to permeate the living spaces. The material palette emphasizes a connection to nature, with exposed rammed earth walls and cast-in-situ concrete used throughout the interior. These materials provide a rustic texture that is complemented by the integration of metal, glass, and steel, which introduce an industrial touch. The kitchen area maintains a warm, neutral color scheme that harmonizes with the desert surroundings. Bedrooms are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows to maximize sunlight and views. Bathrooms also feature expansive windows, framing breathtaking mountain vistas. A serene corner reading nook offers a tranquil space for relaxation. The presence of a swimming pool outside creates dynamic light reflections on the interior wall planes, altering the ambiance of the living areas throughout the day. The project involved collaborations with Desert Star Construction for building, PH Structural for structural engineering, Gookin Engineers for civil engineering, GBtwo Landscape Architecture, Inc. for landscape design, Creative Designs in Lighting for lighting, David Michael Miller for interior design, and Bulthaup for cabinetry design, with Wood Design Studios handling cabinets and doors. Photography was provided by Alexander Vertikoff. #DesertArchitecture #RammedEarthHome #FloatingRoof #KendleDesignCollaborative #ParadiseValley #ArizonaHomes #SustainableDesign #NaturalLightIntegration #ModernDesertHome

In Arizona's San Rafael Valley, the architectural firm DUST has completed "Casa Caldera," an off-grid dwelling designed to harmonize with the unique historical and environmental context of the region. This area, located 15 miles north of the U.S.-Mexico border, is characterized by its volcanic origins, which have resulted in mineral-rich land and a storied history influenced by various cultures and historical events. The design of Casa Caldera directly responds to these influences, emphasizing sustainability and integration with the landscape. The dwelling's construction material, scoria—a porous, lightweight red volcanic aggregate—is integral to its design and performance. This basaltic lava was mixed into a semi-fluid state and pressed into formwork, a technique similar to rammed earth construction, allowing the walls to be self-supporting. This choice of material not only provides excellent thermal insulation due to its 18-inch thickness but also ensures the structure visually blends into its volcanic surroundings. The 880-square-foot home's layout is informed by local architectural typologies, specifically the "zaguan," a central hallway or passage. This design choice addresses the clients' request for both outdoor living and sleeping zones, organizing the interior space efficiently. The house features a rectangular plan divided into three zones: living accommodations and sleeping quarters flank the central zaguan. Large folding metal doors at both ends of the zaguan allow the covered living space to open up to the surrounding landscape, promoting natural light and cross-ventilation. When closed, these partitions offer security and protection. This flexible design allows the central volume to serve multiple functions, from lounging and dining to an additional sleeping area. The zaguan functions as a transitional space, allowing occupants to engage with the natural environment, observe the passage of time, and experience the changing climatic conditions. Heating within the dwelling is provided solely by a wood-burning stove and a fireplace, maintaining the off-grid ethos. Cooling relies on the natural thermal mass of the thick scoria walls and passive airflow, which is managed through strategically placed external operable windows. These windows are intentionally small to minimize direct solar heat gain during the hot summer months, reflecting a careful consideration of solar orientation to optimize indoor comfort without reliance on active cooling systems. Casa Caldera is a testament to custom craftsmanship, with DUST undertaking the fabrication and installation of nearly all components, including the walls, windows, hardware, leather pulls, wood siding, millwork, casework, and framing. This comprehensive approach ensures a cohesive and deeply integrated design. For its utility needs, the dwelling is self-sufficient: an existing well provides water, and a small solar electrical system, situated away from the main house, supplies basic electrical power. Cooking, water heating, and refrigeration are powered by propane gas, further reducing the home’s environmental footprint and reliance on external infrastructure. Completed in December 2015, Casa Caldera represents a harmonious blend of traditional building methods, sustainable practices, and a deep respect for its unique desert environment. #OffGridLiving #SustainableArchitecture #VolcanicRock #ArizonaDesign #DUSTArchitects #CustomBuild #PassiveCooling #Zaguan #DesertArchitecture

The Downey residence, a 3,200-square-foot rammed-earth home, is situated near the Rio Grande in Corrales, New Mexico. Designed by architect Efthimios Maniatis of Studio eM Design, the home integrates modern contemporary regionalism with sustainable building practices. The design draws inspiration from local adobe farmhouses and agricultural structures, while adhering to a minimalist aesthetic requested by one of the homeowners, Roger Downey. Central to the home's design are its rammed-earth walls, which contribute significantly to its eco-friendly features and thermal performance. These walls are constructed by compacting a mixture of dirt (90%), Portland cement (10%), and water (6-10%) into eight-inch "lifts" within wood forms. This construction method results in walls with subtly varied colors and textures that change throughout the day with the natural light, offering a unique aesthetic quality. The architect emphasizes the tactile nature of the material, noting its inviting texture that encourages touch. The rammed-earth construction provides excellent thermal mass, which helps regulate indoor temperatures naturally, reducing the need for excessive heating or cooling. This inherent property of rammed earth is a cornerstone of the home's sustainable design, minimizing its environmental footprint. The integration of traditional regional materials and building techniques with modern architectural principles creates a dwelling that is both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally responsible. The home is a testament to the potential of sustainable design to blend seamlessly with regional aesthetics. By utilizing locally abundant materials and time-tested building methods, Studio eM Design has created a home that respects its natural surroundings while offering contemporary living spaces. The project showcases how a focus on material properties and local context can lead to innovative and energy-efficient architecture, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to residential development in the New Mexico landscape. #SustainableDesign #RammedEarth #NewMexicoArchitecture #EcoFriendlyHome #StudioEmDesign #ThermalMass #ModernRegionalism #GreenHomes #CorralesNM

The Ranch Mine, a US architectural studio based in Phoenix, has completed a holiday home called Noir Peaks in Flagstaff, northern Arizona. The house is characterized by its black, gabled forms that appear to 'burst vertically from the ground,' reflecting the surrounding volcanic landscape. The location of the property on a grassy, high-altitude plateau in Flagstaff, an area known for its mountains, aspen stands, pine forests, and a vast volcanic field, heavily influenced the design and materiality of the vacation home. The last volcanic eruption in this region occurred approximately 1,000 years ago, leaving a distinctive geological footprint. The Noir Peaks house is built on a two-acre (0.8-hectare) site and consists of a cluster of gabled forms perched on a two-foot-high concrete base. The architectural concept specifically aimed to mimic the volcanic mountains that dot the plateau, with three prominent gabled structures rising vertically. The exterior of the home features fibre-cement, board-and-batten siding, which is painted to match the dark lava rocks prevalent on the site. The spacing of the battens is intentionally varied to evoke the organic and scattered arrangement of nearby aspen trees, contributing to a seamless integration with the natural environment. The design team emphasized the economic construction of the house, stating their goal was to utilize a simple, cost-effective material that could withstand the harsh environmental conditions while achieving an elevated aesthetic through a unique batten pattern. Spanning 2,405 square feet (223 square meters), the interior layout of Noir Peaks is meticulously planned to optimize views of the majestic San Francisco Peaks. The house encompasses multiple communal spaces, a primary suite, three additional bedrooms, a mudroom, a laundry room, and a generously sized garage. The interior design adopts a neutral colour palette complemented by earthy materials such as wood and stone, fostering a warm and inviting atmosphere. For instance, tongue-and-groove hemlock clads the ceilings in the great room and the primary bedroom, adding textural richness and natural beauty. Fireplaces throughout the home are faced with Texas Crème limestone, further enhancing the natural and refined aesthetic. The overall interior ambiance is designed to be cozy and restful, drawing inspiration from the Danish concept of 'hygge.' This philosophy emphasizes creating a comforting and convivial environment that promotes well-being and contentment. In line with this, the designers aimed for the home to serve as a refuge where occupants can recover, rest, reflect, and re-energize in preparation for future adventures. To enhance comfort during the colder months, radiant heated concrete floors are installed throughout the house, providing a consistently warm and pleasant daily sensation. The Ranch Mine has a history of developing projects in Arizona, including a minimalist house in Paradise Valley and a series of townhomes in Phoenix featuring brick, stucco, and weathering steel facades. #VolcanicTerrain #GabledForms #HolidayHome #ArizonaArchitecture #TheRanchMine #SustainableDesign #HyggeInterior #EarthyMaterials #ModernArchitecture

The Vertical Glass House, designed by Yung Ho Chang of Atelier FCJZ, features an innovative design where glass floors replace traditional windows, allowing residents to view from a dining table down into a toilet in this concrete house in Shanghai. Originally conceived as an urban housing prototype for a competition in 1991, the design was realized 22 years later as a permanent pavilion for the West Bund Biennale of Architecture and Contemporary Art. This four-storey structure now serves as a guesthouse for visiting artists and architects, maintaining the original design's core principles. The house's design is a deliberate 90-degree rotation of typical Modernist glass houses, which traditionally emphasize horizontal transparency and views of the landscape. In contrast, the Vertical Glass House prioritizes vertical transparency. With enclosed concrete walls and transparent glass floors and roof, the dwelling opens up to the sky and the earth, creating a central, meditative space for its inhabitants. This approach offers a critique of conventional glass house designs by addressing privacy concerns while still embracing transparency, albeit in a unique vertical orientation. A singular steel column acts as the central axis of the building, extending upwards through all floors. This column, along with a series of intersecting joists, divides each level into quarters, each designated for different activities. One of these quarters on each floor is occupied by a steel staircase that spirals down to the basement from a double-height second floor, further enhancing the vertical connection within the structure. The aesthetic of the house is characterized by its austere concrete walls. These walls were cast using wooden formwork, which left a rough texture on the exterior facade while the interior surfaces were sanded smooth, providing a tactile contrast. The glass floors are seamlessly integrated into the structure, slotting into narrow horizontal openings in the walls. These junctions are equipped with lighting, which illuminates the glass edges at night, creating striking stripes of light on the building's exterior and adding a mystic quality for observers. Despite its innovative multi-storey design, the Vertical Glass House has a compact footprint of less than 40 square meters. The project description highlights its dual function as both a spiritual space and a material exploration. The vertical transparency visually interconnects all domestic elements, including utilities, ductwork, furniture, and the staircase, creating a system that reinterprets the modern theory of "architecture as a living machine." All furniture within the house was custom-designed to align with the original concept and maintain a cohesive appearance with the structure. The house also includes modern amenities like air conditioning. This structure stands as a testament to its original conceptual design, developed by Atelier FCJZ, and serves as both an architectural exhibition and a functional guesthouse, offering a distinct residential experience in Shanghai. #VerticalGlassHouse #AtelierFCJZ #ShanghaiArchitecture #GlassFloors #ConcreteDesign #UrbanHousingPrototype #ArchitecturalInnovation #ModernistCritique #SustainableDesign

Nestled on the serene shores of Lake Avándaro in Valle de Bravo, Mexico, House A stands as a striking contemporary A-frame residence, masterfully designed by the Mexico City-based architectural firm Metodo in collaboration with Ingeniería Orca. The home's distinctive A-frame structure, which lends it its name, is integral to its design philosophy, aiming to immerse its inhabitants in the breathtaking lakeside environment. The architects prioritized a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living, achieved through expansive walls of glass and strategically placed folding glazed doors. Spanning an impressive 3,523 square feet across three stories, House A was conceived as a versatile space, ideal for large gatherings and entertaining. The ground floor is a testament to this vision, featuring an open-plan layout that encompasses a living area, dining room, and kitchen. This level effortlessly transitions to an outdoor patio and a sprawling lawn through the folding glazed doors. Additionally, the ground floor includes a dedicated TV room, various service rooms, and a comfortable guest suite, ensuring ample space and convenience for residents and visitors alike. Access to the residence and its parking area is located on the second floor. This level houses the first master suite, offering privacy and comfort, alongside a children’s room. Ascending to the third floor reveals a second master suite, providing another luxurious retreat. This uppermost level also boasts a unique yoga terrace, designed for tranquility and offering elevated views, and a secondary children’s room, making the home adaptable to various family needs. The architectural team emphasized the integration of the A-frame structure into every space, ensuring it was not merely a design element but a coherent and functional part of the house. The construction employed a contemporary steel framework, harmoniously blended with traditional local building techniques and materials. This approach not only grounded the house in its regional context but also ensured its structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. Crucially, House A is oriented towards the north, a deliberate design choice made to maximize and frame the panoramic views of Lake Avándaro. To manage solar radiation effectively throughout the day, the design incorporates lateral balconies. These balconies, drawing inspiration from the decks of boats, allow for controlled sunlight exposure in the mornings and evenings, enhancing the comfort and ambiance within the home while maintaining an unobstructed connection to the natural surroundings. The careful selection of natural materials complements the modern steel and glass components, creating an interior that is both sophisticated and inviting. #AFrameHome #LakesideLiving #MexicanArchitecture #MetodoArchitecture #IngenieriaOrca #ContemporaryDesign #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ValleDeBravo #SustainableMaterials

Stellah De Ville, a designer and ceramicist, found her calling in working with her hands, starting with ceramics classes in San Francisco in 2014. Her career, which began in fashion in Australia, evolved into interior and product design. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, De Ville relocated to Mexico, first to Oaxaca, where she opened Stellah Gallery and undertook a home renovation. During this period, frequent trips to Mexico City exposed her to the city's dynamic design and fine art scene, leading her to seek a more permanent residence there. Her search for a rental home led her to a 1930s Casona in La Roma, Mexico City, the second listing she encountered. Despite being back in Oaxaca at the time, her friends toured the property on her behalf, with one friend's enthusiastic reaction to the checkerboard flooring in an upstairs sunroom sealing De Ville's decision. She secured a five-year lease on the property, which had previously served as an office for a film production company for 12 years. The Casona required extensive work to transform it into a functional home and event space. Key challenges included the absence of hot water and gas, significant bathroom repairs, a full exterior paint job, and stucco damage. Her landlord provided funds for essential renovations, while De Ville personally oversaw additional improvements, such as cultivating a tropical garden. The house, named Casa de Reunión, has since become a venue for various events, including dinner parties for 25 guests, pop-up art shows, and even opera performances. De Ville emphasizes the humbling lessons learned from ceramics, particularly in embracing failure and imperfection. She describes the house as having a unique character, with almost every floor featuring a different pattern and color, including green, pink, and red. This diverse flooring, unusual in her native Australia, influenced her approach to incorporating color into her designs. The entryway floor, split by an earthquake, was partially re-tiled, and De Ville commissioned replacement tiles for existing holes, highlighting her commitment to preserving the home's original elements while addressing necessary repairs. Respecting the house's materiality was a central theme in her renovation. Original terrazzo elements, including the stairs and a previously damaged foyer shelf, were restored or recreated. For the kitchen terrazzo, De Ville selected pink, yellow, and green tones to integrate the house's existing color palette. This work was executed by women from a local factory found by architect Alberto Franco, involving a four-day installation. The original stained glass window was also partially restored using pieces discovered on-site. The age of the house meant there were no straight lines, adding to its unique charm. The casual dining area, designed to accommodate her cookbook collection, provided functional space. A cabinet found in the house mirrored the floor pattern, and a rug from her previous California home complemented the grid of the windows, creating a cohesive aesthetic. The bathroom featured original wall tiles and tub, with new, locally custom-made basket-weave flooring designed to appear aged. A saffron paint color, initially considered for the exterior courtyard, was instead used in the guest bedroom/office, demonstrating adaptability in design choices. Her creative workspace, accessible through the primary closet, allows her to engage in ceramics for three hours each morning before dedicating time to her custom furniture, lighting, and art collaboration business. The article concludes by showcasing De Ville's dedication to her craft and her integrated approach to living and working within her unique Mexico City home, which she hopes to activate as an artist residency. #MexicoCityHome #DesignerHomeTour #CeramicsStudio #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #ArtResidency #LaRoma #TileDesign #Terrazzo

Interior designer Simon Hamui's latest project is a penthouse in Monterrey, Mexico, drawing inspiration from the aesthetic of a New York loft. The design harmoniously blends panoramic city views with a dark and atmospheric interior. Hamui, known for his custom millwork and celebration of Mexico's traditional design methodologies, created a space that caters to the art-collecting residents. The design thoughtfully integrates bookcases along the periphery of the space, extending into the master bedroom to showcase the couple's art collection, complemented by a monochrome palette. Privacy is a key consideration in the apartment's interior design, achieved through the strategic use of sliding doors to create distinct areas for visiting children. Custom-made, irregular-shaped locks on these doors ensure a seamless integration with the surrounding bookcases and walls, enhancing the sense of seclusion. Floor-to-ceiling windows are a central feature, bringing the exterior views into the open-plan layout, which is furnished with both standalone and integrated pieces designed by the Simon Hamui team. The entryway makes a striking first impression with a central table adorned with hollowed acrylic and tarnished silver leaf, illuminated by a Studio Drift 'Fragile Future' light installation. This imposing entrance leads to a studio, service quarters, and the main living areas. In the living room, a custom fireplace is flanked by grey granite cladding, softened by linen-like textures, and anchored by a grand antique marble coffee table. This arrangement creates a luxurious contrast with the bar area, which features cristallo, quartzite, grey parchment, and tarnished silver. The kitchen is outfitted with white marble countertops and illuminated by two silver pendants from Apparatus. Throughout the penthouse, Hamui's signature style is evident in the meticulous custom millwork and the selection of dark woods and leathers, contributing to a welcoming and atmospheric ambiance. The design not only showcases the residents' art collection but also creates distinct private zones within the open layout, all while framing the expansive city views. The project represents a sophisticated fusion of contemporary design principles with a deep respect for local craftsmanship and the natural environment. #MexicoPenthouse #SimonHamui #InteriorDesign #NewYorkLoft #CustomMillwork #LuxuryInteriors #ArtCollecting #ModernDesign #MonterreyArchitecture

The "Patio House" project, designed by herchell arquitectos, is located in San Sebastián del Oeste Centro, Mexico, and was completed in 2022. The house occupies an area of 715 square meters and was photographed by Lorena Darquea Schettini, with Miguel Hernandez Michel as the lead architect. The project's core philosophy centers on challenging conventional living standards and offering an experiential escape from urban daily life. The architectural design of the Patio House prioritizes integration with nature, featuring central patios and exterior corridors supported by steel columns. This design aims to create a harmonious coexistence between the built environment and the natural surroundings, inviting residents to engage with an unknown and refuge-like experience. The emphasis on nature is evident in the inclusion of gardens and courtyards, which are integral to the living spaces. The house incorporates a variety of materials, primarily wood and brick, which contribute to its aesthetic and structural integrity. The design features large windows and open facades that allow ample natural light and views of the exterior. Interior spaces showcase exposed beams and columns, highlighting the structural elements as part of the design narrative. The floor plan, including both ground and upper levels, indicates a thoughtful arrangement of rooms around the central patio concept, promoting an open and fluid living environment. The house also includes elements such as stairs with handrails and various living areas, suggesting a multi-functional and comfortable residential space. The project's design aims to evoke a sense of detachment from the typical urban experience, providing a serene and immersive environment. The use of specific materials like wood and brick, combined with the strategic placement of patios, reinforces this intention by blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. The house is categorized under residential architecture and houses, reflecting its primary function while also highlighting its unique design approach. Overall, the Patio House by herchell arquitectos represents a contemporary approach to residential design in Mexico, focusing on challenging traditional living paradigms and creating a deep connection between the inhabitants and the natural world. The project's architectural elements, material choices, and spatial organization all contribute to its overarching goal of providing a distinctive and enriching living experience. #ResidentialArchitecture #PatioHouse #MexicanArchitecture #HerchellArquitectos #SanSebastianDelOeste #WoodAndBrick #NaturalIntegration #ArchitecturalDesign

PPAA, a Mexico City-based architectural studio, has completed a guesthouse project for the Danish homeware brand Vipp in Todos Santos, a town located on Mexico's Baja California peninsula. The project marks Vipp's expansion into the hospitality sector. The design emphasizes a harmonious integration with the desert landscape, utilizing pale rammed-earth for both its aesthetic qualities and thermal efficiency. The guesthouse's architecture aims to convey a sense of longevity, appearing as if it has always been an integral part of its environment and is designed to evolve gracefully over time. The structural composition of the guesthouse consists of three distinct square volumes: a primary residence and two guest accommodations. These volumes are strategically arranged around a central courtyard, positioned at each corner and staggered to conform to the natural, gentle slope of the site. This careful placement ensures that each space maintains a degree of privacy while remaining connected to the broader landscape. The design creates a balance between providing shelter from the desert climate and embracing natural elements like ventilation, light, and scenic views. Interior spaces are characterized by their openness, extending onto expansive, stepped terraces. Semi-external living and dining areas are thoughtfully protected by the robust rammed-earth walls. The guest bedrooms feature sliding screens made from the woven branches of the Palo de Arco tree, allowing them to open directly onto the central courtyard. This material choice further enhances the natural integration of the structure. Each of the three volumes is topped with an additional terrace, shaded by fabric canopies supported by metal frames. The largest of these rooftop terraces incorporates a circular swimming pool, which is envisioned as a prime viewing platform for contemplation. From this vantage point, the surrounding landscape, encompassing the desert, ocean, and sky, unfolds in a manner that is both vast and intimate. The material palette primarily features the pale-coloured rammed-earth walls, left exposed throughout the structure, complemented by local stone and wood. The guesthouse is furnished with pieces specifically created by Vipp, further enhancing its bespoke character. PPAA, established in 2018, has a portfolio that includes a mass-timber office building in Querétaro, Mexico, and a concrete villa overlooking Lake Zurich in Switzerland, showcasing their diverse architectural capabilities. The photography for the Todos Santos guesthouse project was undertaken by Anders Hviid. #PPAA #RammedEarth #Guesthouse #MexicanArchitecture #SustainableDesign #Vipp #CoastalArchitecture #DesertArchitecture #Terraces

Grupo Boreal, an architecture studio based in Córdoba, has completed Casa Elisa, a 170-square-metre residence located in the mountainous region of San Clemente, southwest of Córdoba, Argentina. The house features a striking bright white exterior, drawing inspiration from Ibizan architecture with its white walls, wavy plaster, and rounded edges. The studio strategically placed Casa Elisa on the highest point of a seven-hectare plot, which encompasses mountain ranges, native forest, and a stream, to maximize the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. This elevated position ensures that the main rooms of the house benefit from these scenic vistas. The design prioritizes natural light, especially during winter, through a U-shaped layout that embraces a north-facing patio. This outdoor area is also sheltered by a roof of colonial clay tiles, providing essential shade in the summer months. The single-story residence includes an external staircase, crafted from herringbone-patterned red brick, leading to a roof terrace. This red brick detailing extends to the outdoor flooring and the accessible roof deck, where tiles in a similar reddish hue enhance the Mediterranean aesthetic. The roof also integrates photovoltaic panels and a solar hot water tank, reflecting an environmentally conscious approach to energy generation for the home. Inside, Casa Elisa maintains a rustic, farmhouse-inspired ambiance with white walls and ceilings. Architectural details include arched wood doorways and openings that connect different rooms, along with exposed tree trunk-like beams across the ceilings. Wooden floors are used throughout the interior, complementing the natural material palette. The kitchen features wooden cabinets and an island topped with a curved stone counter. The bathroom incorporates a wooden sink, white-painted brick walls, and stone flooring. Casa Elisa is a testament to Grupo Boreal's vision of blending Mediterranean influences with the rugged Argentinian landscape, creating a dwelling that is both aesthetically pleasing and functionally integrated with its environment. The project highlights a commitment to sustainable living through its energy solutions and thoughtful consideration of natural light and views. The design successfully marries traditional architectural elements with modern living requirements, offering a serene and picturesque retreat. #CasaElisa #GrupoBoreal #ArgentinianArchitecture #IbizanInfluence #WhiteHouses #ResidentialDesign #SustainableLiving #MountainHome #RusticModern

JVL Architects designed Casa del Este, a fully off-grid residence in Cabo del Este, Baja California Sur, Mexico, for a North American family. This dwelling integrates rammed earth, concrete, and oak to create a structure that is both durable and responsive to the arid climate and natural landscape of the region. The house serves as both a retreat and a permanent home, capable of accommodating up to twelve individuals across a main volume and an independent guest casita. The program of Casa del Este includes three en-suite bedrooms, various social areas, a shaded terrace, a pool and jacuzzi, dedicated outdoor cooking and dining spaces, and a three-car garage. The architectural layout prioritizes unobstructed sea views and provides essential protection from strong winds, while also ensuring that all areas are safe and easily accessible for children. Entry to the residence is marked by a blind wall, which ensures privacy and guides visitors along a gradual approach to the main entrance, defined by rammed-earth walls and a brick threshold. A central courtyard serves as the functional and aesthetic core of Casa del Este, drawing inspiration from traditional Mexican architectural principles. This courtyard is enveloped by a concrete pergola, which skillfully filters natural light and promotes efficient cross-ventilation, a crucial feature for maintaining comfort, especially during hurricane season. At the heart of the courtyard, a torote tree stands, surrounded by indigenous vegetation and an earthen floor, reinforcing the building's material authenticity and connection to its environment. From this central courtyard, a series of interconnected interior and exterior spaces extend seamlessly towards the expansive terrace, infinity pool, and the Pacific Ocean, situated approximately 40 meters away. The social areas of the house are directly linked to the outdoors, fostering a continuous visual and spatial flow from the interior to the coastal landscape. The bedrooms are strategically positioned to offer direct views of the sea while maintaining privacy, with two bedrooms located on each level. The guest casita is designed as a separate entity, featuring its own private courtyard enclosed by rammed-earth walls. The main terrace is a comprehensive outdoor living area, equipped with a barbecue, a bar, a firepit, a pool, and a jacuzzi. A concrete staircase, finished with polished cement and fine sand, provides a direct path from the house to the beach, completing the harmonious transition from the built environment to the natural shoreline. The material palette of Casa del Este intentionally employs rammed earth, exposed concrete, clay, marble, and oak, celebrating material honesty and structural clarity. The concrete surfaces exhibit visible formwork textures, creating a horizontal grain that complements the tactile quality of the earth walls. The interior design, overseen by Mariana Cabrera, maintains a consistent aesthetic through custom-made furniture, textiles, and finishes, all selected for their texture, durability, and material cohesion. Sustainability and self-sufficiency are foundational aspects of the project. Casa del Este operates entirely off-grid, powered by a robust solar energy system. Water is supplied by tankers and undergoes on-site treatment through a sophisticated three-tank filtration and storage system, which then provides water for both domestic use and irrigation. The landscaping incorporates native plant species, such as agave, ocotillo, torote, and cardón, chosen to minimize water consumption and seamlessly integrate the dwelling into its surrounding ecosystem. Structurally, the house is designed to preserve the visual continuity of its rammed-earth walls. Columns are discreetly integrated within the thickness of the walls wherever feasible, ensuring material consistency and avoiding visual interruptions. In the double-height social area, two 10.5-meter-long window axes provide extensive views of the courtyard and terrace, supported by subtly placed 50×50 cm columns that align with the architectural grid. The reinforcement structure was meticulously modeled in 3D to ensure precision and coherence between the design concept and the actual construction. Casa del Este exemplifies JVL Architects' commitment to site-specific design and expressive material usage, bridging traditional techniques with modern construction to foster a deep connection between architecture, landscape, and climate. #RammedEarthArchitecture #OffGridLiving #CoastalResidence #SustainableDesign #MexicanArchitecture #CourtyardHouse #JVLArchitects #BajaCaliforniaSur #ConcreteDesign

In Mexico City, a 1970s house underwent a significant transformation to embrace indoor-outdoor living, a vision held by its real estate developer owner for six years. Initially, the developer struggled to find an architect willing to remodel the existing structure rather than demolish and rebuild. This challenge was met by designers Ezequiel Farca and Cristina Grappin, who accepted the task of revitalizing the four-story typology while preserving its original form. Their client, a family with three 10-year-old triplets and a 5-year-old boy, required the home to be highly functional and accommodating. Farca and Grappin integrated various amenities essential for a large family, including a home theater, a gym, two terraces, and a swimming pool. The structural aesthetic was refined with a clean-lined facelift, maintaining an overarching sense of sophistication. A key design element was the incorporation of seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, primarily achieved through expansive walls of frameless glass. These glass installations, often draped with sheer curtains, fostered a continuous visual and physical connection between the living room and the garden. Adding to the natural integration, a green roof adorned with trailing plants was installed, effectively softening the building's architectural edges and contributing to its organic appeal. The material palette was carefully selected to enhance the theme of continuity and spaciousness. Honed volcanic stone, used for courtyard pavers, complemented the natural textures. Inside, materials such as marble and timber were extensively utilized, alongside an earth-tone color scheme, to further blur the boundaries between the interior and exterior environments. Beyond visual aesthetics, the design introduced elements of surprise and dynamic functionality. Hidden doors and movable screens were incorporated to create an element of unpredictability and allow for flexible spatial configurations. This innovative approach not only modernized the house but also created an adaptable living space that caters to the diverse needs of a bustling family while maximizing its connection to the natural surroundings. The project exemplifies a successful blend of architectural preservation with contemporary design principles, ultimately fulfilling the owner's long-held vision for an indoor-outdoor living exemplar. #IndoorOutdoorLiving #MexicoCityArchitecture #HomeRenovation #EzequielFarca #CristinaGrappin #ResidentialDesign #SustainableDesign #ModernArchitecture

FMT Estudio undertook the La Posmoderna project, a comprehensive renovation of a single-family residence in Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico. The 1980s home, characterized by a dated floor plan, was reimagined to enhance spaciousness, illumination, and ventilation. The core of the redesign involved expanding the kitchen and seamlessly integrating it with the terrace and pool area, thereby maximizing natural light and airflow throughout the living spaces. The former foyer was ingeniously repurposed into a pantry and wine cellar, showcasing a thoughtful reallocation of space. On the first floor, the bedrooms underwent significant reconfiguration to incorporate built-in closets and private bathrooms, prioritizing convenience and individual privacy for residents. The staircase was modified with open railings, a strategic choice that contributes to a more open and expansive feel within the home. Structural adjustments were also made to optimize the available area, including the addition of an extra linen closet in the upstairs foyer. The living and dining areas were designed to flow effortlessly into the terrace, garden, and main entrance, creating a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor environments. This connection is further emphasized by generously sized green wrought-iron doors and windows, which allow the tropical breeze and abundant natural light to permeate the interior. The exterior of the property features a newly constructed two-story building with a sloped roof, meticulously designed to complement the residence's existing architectural style. This extension houses two additional studios, accessible via an exterior staircase that connects directly to the ground-floor dining area. Furthermore, the original service room was transformed into a tranquil studio space, offering a visual link to the pool area, ideal for relaxation or creative pursuits. A key aspect of La Posmoderna's renovation was its commitment to sustainable design principles, focusing on minimal intervention and the use of eco-friendly materials. Clay bricks were extensively used for the exterior floors and the walls of the new studios, with matching tiles adorning the kitchen. Many of the original walls were preserved with their existing finishes, requiring only minor paint updates. Bathrooms were outfitted with marble, the kitchen featured quartz countertops, and polished white concrete was applied to both floors and select walls. Wood louvers, equipped with mosquito screens, were strategically installed in certain areas to ensure optimal ventilation. FMT Estudio's material selection aimed to achieve a harmonious balance between functionality and environmental responsibility. The design team made a conscious effort to retain several original architectural elements, such as ironwork windows and doors, entrance columns, and concrete cubes on the terrace. This preservation respected the home's initial character, effectively bridging the gap between the old and the new. Beyond structural and material choices, the project reflected the client's identity through carefully planned landscaping and color schemes. Native trees were planted to enrich the natural surroundings, providing both shade and privacy. The color palette primarily consists of warm, neutral tones, accented by vibrant green ironwork. The facade's design skillfully balances the need for privacy with opportunities for residents to enjoy views of the outdoors. La Posmoderna ultimately represents a successful adaptation to its environment, delivering a visually and sensorily rich experience where architecture and daily life are seamlessly interwoven. #ResidentialArchitecture #HomeRenovation #SustainableDesign #FMTStudio #MexicoArchitecture #InteriorDesign #EcoFriendlyMaterials #ArchitecturalPreservation #TropicalModernism