lattice skin encloses casa xcumpich's red volumes by taller mexicano de arquitectura

The UC House, a 5,920-square-foot residence located on the outskirts of Morelia, Mexico, blurs the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces. Designed by Daniela Bucio Sistos, founder of a Mexico-based architecture and design firm, the home is characterized by its minimalist yet textured and warm aesthetic. A central foyer with a raised, circular ceiling features a tree growing through a hole in the floor, serving as a focal axis. Adjacent to this central point, a large glass wall reveals the library, which is considered the heart of the project. The design of the library was paramount, as the clients possessed an extensive collection of approximately 15,000 books, which previously filled every available space in their former home, including bathrooms and near the chimney. Sistos aimed to create contemplative spaces that diverge from traditional home aesthetics. Responding to the clients' desire for a single-floor residence without stairs for easy navigation, the UC House incorporates an open-plan living area that includes a lounge space, dining room, and kitchen. This area is situated at the back of the house and opens onto a patio with a ramp leading to a lush garden. The primary bedroom is also located at the rear, while three additional bedrooms are positioned towards the front facade of the property. The architect sought to achieve an almost monochromatic palette throughout the home, predominantly utilizing earthy tones such as red, brown, ochre, yellow, and beige. Sistos intentionally prioritized textural contrast over color variation to create a serene and contemporary atmosphere. All construction materials, including bricks and stone, were sourced locally to integrate the residence seamlessly with its surroundings. Additionally, Sistos collaborated with local copper artisans to incorporate decorative elements into some of the interior spaces, further grounding the home in its regional context. The resulting design provides a peaceful and modern sanctuary in Michoacán's capital. The project's credits attribute Daniela Bucio Sistos for the architectural design, general contracting, landscape design, lighting design, and interior design, with Victor Marín as the structural engineer. #MexicanArchitecture #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ModernHomeDesign #LibraryDesign #CircularMotifs #BrickAndConcrete #EarthyTones #MonochromaticPalette #SustainableMaterials

Mexican Pink is more than just a passing trend; it's a deep-rooted tradition that has influenced Mexican culture for centuries. This vibrant hue, known in Spanish as _rosa mexicano_, gained prominence through artist Ramón Valdiosera and is widely visible across Mexico, adorning everything from architecture to everyday objects. Contemporary Mexican creatives continue to draw inspiration from their cultural heritage, using color, light, and shadow to create impactful designs. In architecture, Mexican Pink is highly valued for its ability to create profound atmospheres and striking contrasts, making it a timeless element in design. This deep appreciation for color in Latin America dates back to ancient civilizations such as the Mayans and Aztecs, who extensively used vibrant pigments to decorate their pyramids and ornaments. Historically, many buildings in Mexico were constructed using stucco, a readily available and breathable material ideal for managing heat in warm climates. When steel or structural timber was not accessible, stucco provided a practical building solution. Painting over stucco also helped to mitigate the glare from white buildings under the intense sun, transforming urban landscapes into vibrant, flower-like displays of color. Chukum, a limestone-based stucco used by the Mayans, is experiencing a resurgence in Yucatán, Mexico. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, chukum offers practical benefits, such as its antibacterial properties, reinforcing its continued use in construction. In many parts of Latin America, where formal street addresses are less common, bold colors like pink serve as essential identifiers for family homes. The widespread use of bright colors in Mexican architecture is notably associated with mid-century architect Luis Barragán, who, alongside artist Jesús “Chucho” Reyes, famously incorporated pink into their house designs. Following their lead, local governments and tourist boards have actively promoted the use of vivid pink, yellow, and orange walls to maintain a distinctive and appealing aesthetic. However, the intentional application of color in architecture requires a deep understanding of color theory. Mexican architect Sergio Alonzo emphasizes that architects and designers must possess extensive knowledge of color to make informed decisions. This expertise allows them to create architecture that evokes specific emotions and connects deeply with people, ensuring that color is used wisely to achieve desired effects. #MexicanPink #Architecture #ColorTheory #CulturalHeritage #LuisBarragan #Stucco #Chukum #MexicanDesign #Yucatan

Muka Arquitectura has completed the Fuensanta House, a residential project in Ciudad Real, Spain. This unique dwelling serves as the inaugural structure in a largely undeveloped urban area, addressing the uncertainty of future adjacent constructions by adopting a fortress-like design. The house features ribbed concrete walls, distinguished by a corduroy-like texture, and is crowned with a pitched roof. Two substantial abutments extend above the main structure, contributing to its robust appearance. The exterior presents a small, recessed doorway within its brown concrete facade, emphasizing its self-contained nature. The architects chose this robust, isolated design due to the lack of existing architectural context or typological references in the surrounding unbuilt plots. The project's full integration and contextual meaning are anticipated to evolve as neighboring plots are developed, positioning the Fuensanta House as the initial element in the urban development of Ciudad Real. Three slender glass boxes vertically span the facade, accommodating a bathroom, a bar, and a staircase. These translucent elements are veiled with white frosted glass, featuring a ridged texture that visually complements the concrete, while simultaneously allowing natural light to permeate the interior spaces. The design intentionally conceals any overt domestic indicators, reinforcing the structure's singular and preparatory role within the evolving urban landscape. Internally, a double-height void centrally bisects the building. On one side of this void, a narrow galley kitchen and an adjoining dining room are situated. Below these, at the basement level, a toilet and a storage room are located. The opposing side of the void houses a reception room, a garage, and a utility room. The kitchen benefits from porthole skylights integrated into the concrete ceiling and wall, which project distinct light patterns onto the interior surfaces. A suspended corridor traverses the atrium, connecting the master bedroom, which is situated within the larger of the two end blocks, to a sauna located in the smaller block. The elevated walkway features steel base plates with slits, allowing light to filter through, and is secured to the ceiling by a series of metal cables. The interaction of sunlight entering through the glass bays with the textured concrete walls creates dynamic patterns of light and shadow, highlighting the material's rich characteristics. Behind the elevated walkway, four concrete cuboids are arranged between the two end blocks. Two of these cuboids house double-height bedrooms, characterized by wood-paneled interiors designed to enhance the vertical dimension. The remaining two cuboids are two-storey spaces, each containing a bathroom on the ground level and a study above, and are connected to the adjacent bedrooms. Curved metal rungs provide access to glass-fronted perches that project from each study. Each bedroom cubicle also incorporates a strip of glazing on its back wall for additional light and features a trio of teardrop-shaped bulbs. The external surfaces of the four volumes are illuminated by up-lights, emphasizing the textural details, crevices, and chips in the concrete, with low-consumption LEDs integrated into continuous strips within the concrete cracks for artificial lighting. #MukaArquitectura #FuensantaHouse #ConcreteArchitecture #SpanishArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #UrbanDevelopment #CiudadReal #TexturedConcrete

Casa Deco, a residential project situated in Mérida's historic center, showcases a harmonious integration of heritage preservation and modern design principles. The project, undertaken by Taller Mexicano de Arquitectura, focused on maintaining the building's original facade and traditional architectural elements while introducing contemporary functionalities. This transformation was guided by a deep respect for the structure's historical significance within its surroundings. The core objective of the design was to highlight the residence's evolutionary narrative by meticulously blending modern interventions with its inherent historical character. The architects aimed to reinterpret the traditional 'central house' concept, emphasizing the integral role of elements such as the backyard, balconies, and terraces in shaping the living experience. This reinterpretation ensured that the contemporary design solutions not only served modern needs but also amplified the charm of the existing spaces. A significant addition to Casa Deco was the introduction of an upper-level volume, thoughtfully designed to house essential services that were previously lacking or inadequate in the original layout. This strategic intervention addressed practical deficiencies without compromising the historical integrity of the building. Furthermore, a new staircase was incorporated, serving not only as a functional circulation element but also as a design feature that enhances the central space's aesthetic and usability. These modern updates were executed with a keen eye for integration, ensuring they complemented the existing structure rather than detracting from it. A key aspect of this approach involved the preservation of the original textured stone walls, which were intentionally left exposed. This design choice allows natural light to permeate the interiors, thereby accentuating the rich textures and historical patina of the materials, creating a dialogue between the old and the new. The selection of materials was paramount in achieving the desired aesthetic and functional balance at Casa Deco. Taller Mexicano de Arquitectura chose white concrete as the primary finish for the new additions and renovated areas. This material was specifically selected for its ability to create a subtle yet effective contrast with the house's original features, such as the vibrant pasta tile floors and the intricate antique carpentry. The white concrete serves to visually delineate the modern interventions while simultaneously highlighting the historical elements, allowing them to stand out. Ultimately, Casa Deco exemplifies a successful model for urban renewal in historically significant areas. The project demonstrates that contemporary design can coexist harmoniously with historical contexts, creating spaces that are both relevant and functional for current inhabitants while respectfully preserving the architectural legacy for future generations. The meticulous attention to detail in material selection, spatial reinterpretation, and the delicate balance between preservation and innovation define Casa Deco as a significant architectural endeavor. #ArchitecturalPreservation #ModernRenovation #HistoricCenter #MéridaArchitecture #ResidentialDesign #MaterialSelection #StoneWalls #ContemporaryInterventions #MexicanArchitecture

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

The article describes the transformation of an old Mexican house into an artist's retreat for financial adviser Dorsey Gardner, located in San Miguel de Allende. Gardner initially sought a small studio but acquired a significantly larger 19th-century cottage, which was later expanded to 12,000 square feet. The property, built in the late 1700s, was surrounded by high walls and presented several challenges. Upon acquiring the property, Gardner faced initial issues, including a dense "cactus farm" on the premises. Hundreds of cacti, including a large candelabra cactus, were carefully relocated. The house also featured numerous false ceilings installed in the 1950s in its oldest section, which architect Sebastian Zavala removed to restore the original height and appearance of the rooms. Zavala also enhanced some ceilings with grand wooden crossbeams and refinished existing 1950s wood doors and windows with a light whitewash. During the renovation, a hand-painted frieze in the primary bedroom was uncovered and preserved. Gardner, who had previously undertaken remodeling projects on his own homes in Boston, entrusted the design of this Mexican property to Zavala and Paris-born, San Miguel–based designer Anne-Marie Midy. Gardner expressed a preference for a neutral aesthetic, distinct from traditional Mexican decor. He provided the designers with inspiration from magazines and gave them "carta blanca" for the project before embarking on an extended trip. Midy, along with her partner Jorge Almada, founded Casa Midy, a design firm specializing in furniture and accessories. Gardner's house became their first major interior design project. He had discovered Midy and Almada at their former bistro, Plum, known for its distinctive all-purple decor, which Midy noted was an effective way to attract clients. Zavala converted the original structure into a three-bedroom, five-bathroom artist's retreat, maintaining the house's Spanish Colonial architectural elements, stone walls, and archways. He added a spacious studio and installed robust columns on the patio, using locally quarried stone. A new second-floor guest room was also added, offering views of the 17th-century parish church's Gothic-style tower, an 1880 addition inspired by European postcards. Midy and Almada adhered to Gardner's request for a more understated Mexican interior design. They avoided extensive use of decorative elements like talavera tiles, except for a minimal application in the kitchen, and chose muted colors. However, they integrated rich local decorative resources, using jute from Yucatán for curtains, linens from local cotton mills, and furniture sourced from regional antiques shops. Even the traditional lime-and-pigment paint was mixed with San Miguel dirt to achieve a warmer tone. Midy and Almada also designed furniture and accessories for the house, such as iron sconces, a leather cocktail table, and bed linens. They collaborated with Zavala to create trench-like fountains inspired by hacienda horse troughs. The project concluded after a year, with Gardner expressing immense satisfaction, declaring the house fit for a king. #MexicanDesign #ArtistStudio #SanMiguelDeAllende #HomeRenovation #InteriorDesign #SpanishColonial #ArchitecturalRestoration #CasaMidy #LuxuryHome

Estudio MMX designed CBC House in Lomas de Chapultepec, Mexico City, to integrate a substantial garden into a 1,000-square-meter plot that also needed to accommodate a full-sized house. The clients' request for a 1,000-square-meter garden on a lot of the same size presented a challenge, which the architects resolved by conceptualizing the garden as a three-dimensional, interconnected system of open spaces that seamlessly weaves throughout the residence. This approach allowed for the creation of a vast garden experience without sacrificing the living space requirements. The architectural solution manifested as an L-shaped structure positioned on a corner of the property. Above the home's public areas, two large platforms were constructed to support expansive, planted terraces. This terraced layout serves a dual purpose: it visually and physically connects the upper levels of the house to the surrounding garden and introduces a softer, organic element that contrasts with the building's robust concrete aesthetic. Diego Ricalde, one of the partners at Estudio MMX, articulated this strategy, emphasizing the garden as a unifying element. The design thoughtfully segregates the garden into distinct zones, enabling both active entertaining spaces and quiet, plant-filled retreats. By strategically placing heavier shrubs, bushes, and flowering plants on the second-floor terraces and along the property's perimeter, the architects created a spacious outdoor living area at the center of the property, furnished with contemporary outdoor pieces. This ensures that the primary ground-level garden remains open and conducive to gatherings, while lush greenery is still abundant throughout the property. The house itself is constructed from a distinctive yellow-tinted concrete, which gives the geometric form a warm and inviting appearance, despite its material robustness. Estudio MMX favors poured concrete for its ability to honestly express structural integrity and geometry without the need for additional surface finishes. This material choice, combined with extensive glass curtain walls and large windows, contributes to an airy interior. The design facilitates a continuous connection with the outdoors, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living. Inside, the residence offers a dynamic spatial experience. Large windows frame distant city views and intimate glimpses of the immediate verdant surroundings. The design intentionally incorporates variations in scale, height, and light, allowing occupants to experience a changing environment as they move through the home and its site. The garden remains a constant presence, reinforcing a lifestyle centered around outdoor living. Glass curtain walls on the first floor merge the interior living room with its outdoor counterpart, while bedrooms on upper levels provide framed views of the elevated gardens. Estudio MMX, founded in 2010 by Jorge Arvizu, Ignacio del Río, Emmanuel Ramírez, and Diego Ricalde, specializes in designs that integrate architecture with nature. The CBC House project exemplifies their philosophy of creating spaces that allow inhabitants to fully engage with their environment. The project involved collaboration with Ángel Olavarrieta for construction, Alejandro Flores for structural engineering, Entorno Taller de Paisaje for landscape design, Luz en Arquitectura for lighting design, and Adriana Olmedo/Taller de Arquitectura de Interiores for interior design, with cabinetry designed by Estudio MMX. #MexicoCityArchitecture #TerracedGardens #ConcreteHomes #IndoorOutdoorLiving #EstudioMMX #LomasDeChapultepec #ModernDesign #LandscapeIntegration

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

Herchell Arquitectos designed Casa Patio, a split-level residence in San Sebastián del Oeste, Jalisco, Mexico, that allows the owner to rent out a portion of the home while maintaining privacy. The design is configured in an H-shape to preserve two existing avocado trees on the site, which stand over 20 meters tall. These trees inspired the creation of central courtyards that integrate with nature. The owner's living spaces, comprising four bedrooms and bathrooms, are situated on the ground floor, encircling the main courtyard. All these rooms open directly onto this lush central area. Due to the steep terrain, the courtyard is terraced into multiple levels. Herchell Arquitectos incorporated exposed walkways and stairs, leveraging the region's favorable climate. The kitchen and dining room are enclosed by sliding glass walls, and the living room features a fireplace that is accessible from both the interior and exterior. An independent rental property is located on the upper level, accessible via a spiral staircase on one side of the house. This upper level contains four additional bedrooms, each with its own en-suite bathroom. This setup is described as a "boutique hotel concept," allowing the homeowner to rent out these four rooms independently without compromising their private living space below. The windows of the rental units face away from the central courtyard, ensuring the privacy of the owner's ground-floor living areas. Herchell Arquitectos aimed to challenge conventional living standards and how inhabitants interact with their spaces daily. The primary structure of the house utilizes steel, but local materials were prioritized for cladding and interior finishes. Local clay bricks form the majority of the ground-floor walls, while charred pine boards cover the upstairs volume. Fast-growing reeds were used for several ceilings, imparting an artisanal aesthetic to the interiors. This project reflects a trend in Mexico where new developments are designed to accommodate both tourists and local residents, exemplified by a Cancún residential project that combines short-term rentals with traditional leases. The photography of Casa Patio is credited to Herchell Arquitectos. #MexicanArchitecture #CourtyardHouse #BoutiqueHotelConcept #ResidentialDesign #HerchellArquitectos #Mexico #SustainableMaterials #SplitLevelHome

Laminex Architectural Walls & Ceiling Panels offer a versatile and innovative solution for interior design, featuring the patented InvisiLock Joining System. This system is designed for ease of installation, allowing for precise alignment and a seamless finish across various applications, including walls and ceilings. The panels are available in a range of batten designs, including Sublime Teak, Classic Oak, Urban Oak, and Danish Walnut, providing diverse aesthetic options to suit different architectural styles and interior schemes. These wood-look battens contribute to creating sophisticated and modern environments, capable of enhancing both residential and commercial spaces. Crafted for durability, Laminex panels are resistant to general wear and tear, making them suitable for high-traffic areas. The materials used ensure long-term performance and maintain their appearance over time with minimal maintenance requirements. Their low-maintenance nature translates to reduced cleaning efforts and ongoing upkeep costs, presenting a practical choice for large-scale projects and everyday use alike. This durability is coupled with the aesthetic appeal, offering a balanced solution for designers and homeowners. Beyond their functional attributes, Laminex Architectural Walls & Ceiling Panels support various design visions, from creating feature walls to establishing cohesive ceiling designs. The modular nature of the InvisiLock system allows for design flexibility, enabling architects and designers to experiment with different patterns and configurations. This adaptability makes the panels suitable for a wide array of interior settings, including offices, commercial spaces, and residential interiors, as exemplified by projects like the Rothelowman WA Studio. Laminex emphasizes sustainability and quality in their manufacturing processes, ensuring that the panels meet industry standards for environmental responsibility. The company provides comprehensive support through showrooms and selection centers across Australia, including locations in Fyshwick (ACT), Alexandria (NSW), Biggera Waters (QLD), Eagle Farm (QLD), Adelaide (SA), Melbourne (VIC), South Melbourne (VIC), and Osborne Park (WA). These facilities offer opportunities for clients to view product samples, consult with experts, and receive detailed information regarding installation and specifications. The availability of a downloadable brochure further aids in product selection and planning. The panels represent a blend of aesthetic flexibility, robust construction, and ease of maintenance, making them a significant consideration for modern interior architectural design. #Laminex #ArchitecturalPanels #WallPanels #CeilingPanels #InteriorDesign #InvisiLockJoiningSystem #CommercialInteriors #ResidentialInteriors #DurableMaterials

This article highlights ten residential projects that feature distinctive types of house cladding, in response to a 70 percent increase in searches for "house cladding" on Dezeen's Pinterest over the past month. Architects globally are increasingly using a variety of materials to creatively cover building exteriors, moving beyond traditional methods to incorporate both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits such as thermal efficiency and weather resistance. The featured projects showcase innovative uses of materials including recycled scallop tiles, cork, pine siding, slate, weathering steel, and ceramic tiles. The 2HIEN house in Vietnam, designed by CTA, utilizes recycled scallop tiles from the client's previous home to clad both the exterior and roof, as well as interior walls, minimizing the need for new materials. In the Czech Republic, Atelier SAD and Iveta Zachariášová selected cork for a rural house's exterior due to its thermal and weather-resistant qualities, complementing the interior's concrete walls, floors, and ceilings. Stanaćev Granados's Casa Kuvo in Chile, a cubic holiday home on the coast, employs pine siding to reflect the intense sun, integrating the structure with its natural surroundings. Angelucci Architects' Nido House in Australia involves the renovation of a Victorian brick terraced house with an extension clad in hand-cut Welsh slate tiles, covering both the roof and a portion of the facade. LCA Architetti's "The House of Wood, Straw and Cork" in Italy exemplifies sustainable building practices, using a timber structure, straw insulation, and cork cladding to create a minimalist home that harmonizes with its rural setting and reduces environmental impact. Studio Okami Architecten's Beli House in Belgium draws inspiration from 1960s design, featuring a mirrored-clad volume that reflects the surrounding woodland, integrated into a concrete and glass structure. Omar Gandhi Architect's "Mountain Beetle" in British Columbia, Canada, is a fire-resistant mountaintop retreat clad in weathering steel, designed to resemble a mountain beetle and protect against wildfires prevalent in the region. Mecanoo's Villa BW in the Netherlands incorporates ceramic tiles in shades of grey, blue, and green with a pearlescent glaze, creating a facade that changes color with the sunlight. The Nishiji Project in Chiba, Japan, by Kompas, uses traditional kawara tiles, blackened to resist salt damage, for a house and art gallery with garages on the ground floor and art spaces across three upper levels. Lastly, Rundzwei Architekten's "Cork Screw House" in Berlin, Germany, utilizes waste cork from the wine industry for its facade and roof, providing thermal efficiency and a distinctive exterior. These projects collectively demonstrate a diverse and innovative approach to house cladding, emphasizing both sustainability and unique architectural expression. #HouseCladding #ArchitecturalDesign #SustainableMaterials #ResidentialArchitecture #ExteriorDesign #BuildingMaterials #InnovativeCladding #HomeExteriors #ArchitecturalProjects

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

This article details the transformation of a modernist glass-and-steel villa in Guadalajara, Mexico, into a warm, colorful, and charming family home. The homeowners, a young family, enlisted their longtime friend, designer Alejandra Redo, to infuse personality and coziness into the architecturally sleek 6,500-square-foot residence. Architects Imanol Legorreta and Pablo Sepúlveda meticulously crafted the two-level house from steel, glass, and wood, with concrete, zinc, and walnut cladding, strategically designed to embrace Guadalajara's climate and natural light. However, the owners desired a more inviting interior, which led them to Redo, known for her vibrant use of color and pattern. Redo's approach to decorating the modern space involved a careful curation of individual pieces rather than her usual whimsical style. Her first significant acquisition was a midcentury black-and-gold table lamp by Arturo Pani, which became the focal point of the living room. The color palette in the living room is muted, featuring deep gray velour sofas and an ottoman, complemented by two red velvet chairs that add warmth, echoing the hues of an antique Persian rug. Mexican fabrics are prominently featured, with rebozos draped over furniture and cushions made from local textiles, reflecting Redo’s signature aesthetic. The dining room, adjacent to the living area, features Mexican walnut paneling that contrasts with the cool steel structure and marble surfaces, providing a sense of warmth. The entrance hall showcases Redo's eclectic sensibility, with a pine tree piercing both the ceiling and floor. A modern painting by Cuban-born artist Leslie Sardinias is displayed above a reproduction Louis XV console, and a custom Venetian-style mirror adds an artistic touch to the guest bath. Redo emphasizes her comfort in mixing different periods, colors, and designers to create an eclectic environment. The family room is another example of Redo’s unique design philosophy, anchored by a silk wall hanging crafted from a traditional Bhutanese man's robe. This is juxtaposed with a geometric cotton rug designed by Redo and made in India. The space also features a vintage Arco floor lamp by Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni, a family heirloom, alongside a modern sofa and Wegner cowhide Shell chairs, demonstrating a blend of new and old. This room opens onto a garden and a deck, facilitating family gatherings and entertaining. Bedrooms, located downstairs, are characterized by their simplicity and abundant natural light. Redo incorporated playful colors for the children's rooms, with a pink scheme for the girl and a blue-and-red theme for the boy. An eccentric detail in the boy's room is the red wallpaper featuring leaping zebras pursued by arrows, a design reminiscent of Gino's, a historic Italian restaurant in New York. This touch highlights Redo’s ability to bring a lively and personal spirit to the serene modernist house, ultimately making the contemporary architecture feel cozy and lived-in. #InteriorDesign #ModernArchitecture #MexicanDecor #HomeDecor #EclecticStyle #GuadalajaraHome #ResidentialDesign

Rustic home decor is experiencing a significant resurgence, with a particular focus on the Mexican farmhouse aesthetic. Pinterest data indicates a substantial increase in searches for Spanish Mediterranean kitchens and Mexican farmhouse decor, characterized by earthy patterned tiles and rustic terracotta elements. This trend stands in contrast to minimalist, sleek, and modern designs, appealing to those who appreciate imperfections, handmade items, and rich colors in their living spaces. The design firm Bungalowe, led by Karan and Sapna Aggarwal, exemplifies this style in their recently renovated Los Angeles home, which draws inspiration from their travels to Oaxaca, Mexico, and the Ojai Valley Inn. Their home features hand-painted tiles from Old Mexico on baseboards and accent walls, seamlessly blending historic Spanish architecture with an earthy color palette and eclectic furniture. The Mexican farmhouse style, described as an elevated boho aesthetic, creates a timeless, vacation-like ambiance. Key elements include clay vases, dried flowers, wooden kitchenware, and emerald green zellige tiles, which celebrate nature's organic beauty and imperfections. Chris Alexakis of CabinetSelect notes that homeowners are increasingly opting for cozier kitchen spaces that connect with the natural world. Achieving this look involves incorporating colorful, uniquely patterned tiles and rustic terracotta decorations, contributing to a warm and natural atmosphere. The Aggarwals' renovation transformed their one-bedroom, one-bath home into a two-bedroom, two-and-a-half bath, plus office, while preserving its original Spanish character. Interior materials were carefully chosen to honor the home's history, featuring handmade and hand-painted decorative tiles from Old Mexico and Moroccan Zellige from Zia Tile. An arched nook with colorful tiling offers a distinctive alternative to traditional paint or wallpaper. The office addition is designed as a peaceful retreat with a soothing color palette, including Benjamin Moore Brazilian Rainforest paint, pottery-lined built-in shelves, and linen club chairs. The bedrooms maintain a minimalist aesthetic, incorporating cozy, luxurious linens and handmade textures, with a wrought iron bed providing a vintage touch. Microcement on the interior walls adds to the rustic beauty, exemplified by a unique wavy sink. Terracotta tile floors, a beautiful alternative to oak, are used throughout, with Saltillo tiles linking indoor and outdoor living areas. A fringe blanket in breezy white complements the elegant yet rustic feel, while repeated tile patterns and arched nooks ensure visual coherence. Built-in cabinetry with open shelving provides both practical storage and display space for pottery and handmade baskets, with warm wood tones complementing the tile work. The repetition of green zellige tiles in various spaces, such as the bathroom, creates design simplicity and a seamless transition between areas. Pottery and plants enhance the inviting atmosphere of the bath. Further decorative elements include colorful ceramic tiles with warm wooden shelving. Personal touches like baskets, plants, and travel mementos contribute to a warm and inviting home, enhanced by light fixtures designed to evoke a vacation ambiance. Unique rustic sinks serve as artistic focal points in serene settings. The outdoor area, designed for Los Angeles' indoor/outdoor living, extends the rustic aesthetic with a lounge under a tree with hanging lanterns, a dining area with city views, a terraced garden, and a versatile carport for entertaining. This comprehensive design approach ensures a cohesive and tranquil living environment. #MexicanFarmhouse #RusticDecor #HomeDecorTrends #InteriorDesign #SpanishArchitecture #HandmadeTiles #TerracottaDecor #BungaloweDesign #OaxacaInspired

Contemporary Mexican architecture showcases a remarkable fluidity between indoor and outdoor spaces, a tradition deeply rooted in the country's historical architectural practices and influenced by its climate and cultural values. This design philosophy, which dates back to ancient structures like the palaces of Teotihuacan and colonial apartments centered around loggias, emphasizes seamless transitions between sheltered interiors and open-air environments. Mexican modernists of the mid-20th century, such as Luis Barragán and Enrique del Moral, were pivotal in integrating the International Style with local conditions, viewing gardens as extensions of interior rooms and designing homes that, while appearing private from the street, opened expansively to natural surroundings through courtyards and terraces. More recent architects like Alberto Kalach and Mauricio Rocha have continued this legacy, with contemporary firms developing even more innovative solutions to maximize the landscape. These approaches include large openings, strategic framing of vistas, fully retractable walls, and carefully selected material palettes that enhance the connection to nature. Five examples illustrate this diverse spectrum. Manuel Cervantes's homes near Mexico City exemplify how design can respond to topography. His own home in Amatepec, spread across multiple levels, uses the site's natural slope to create permeability. An existing jacaranda tree forms the basis for an aromatic entrance garden, while a spacious living room with pivotable floor-to-ceiling windows dissolves the barrier between inside and out. Planted inner spaces enclosed in glass offer private natural experiences, and the white brick exterior, clad in ceramic, organically blends with the green environment, allowing the climate to be sensed even indoors. Casa Mague, designed by MCxA in Malinalco, prioritizes existing vegetation. Built in 2020, its design respects the site's abundant trees, weaving a series of flexible, open, and closed spaces around the natural elements, sometimes allowing tree branches to penetrate the structure. This constant interplay between indoor and outdoor maximizes occupant interaction with the surrounding forest, using elements like latticed screen walls and glazed enclosures to blur boundaries. Material choices are also crucial in contemporary Mexican architecture for reinforcing indoor-outdoor continuity. Architects frequently select earthy materials in neutral tones, such as stone and cement tiles, to harmonize interiors with the exterior landscape. Casa Tejocote in Querétaro, designed by González Muchow Architects, uses high walls of pigmented rose-colored concrete to echo the region's colonial heritage and arid landscape. The design prioritizes privacy, with four modules arranged around a central garden and connected by bridges. Precise incisions in the stone walls frame views, creating strong links to the outside, while every space is partially open to a courtyard or garden, reflecting a modern evolution of del Moral's patio-centric prototypes. Fernanda Canales, a prominent female architect, reinterprets the patio as a hallmark of her practice. Her Recreo House (2017) in Valle de Bravo, built with local materials like gray stone, clay tiles, and timber, integrates a central patio as the heart of the home. This focal point connects access, service, and private areas to generous social spaces. The dining and living areas are extremely open, situated between the main courtyard and a large terrace with pool and views. L-shaped resting areas are near a more intimate patio, blending wild surroundings with privacy. Breezeways between bedrooms create covered, interstitial outdoor spaces. Casa Zicatela in Oaxaca, designed by Ludwig Godefroy in 2015, offers a radical paradigm. This compact weekend house, overlooking the Pacific, is almost entirely built from silvery concrete. Conceived as a 'country house by the sea,' its fortified exterior provides protection and privacy while echoing nearby mountains. Inside, open space abounds, resembling a mysterious concrete playground with no conventional indoor-outdoor boundaries. Rooms are arranged around a garden, with an open-air corridor and loggia-like areas, and a central structure housing living, dining, and kitchen areas seamlessly extending into the courtyard. Steps like a Mayan pyramid lead to a second level observatory, immersing occupants in the vibrant blue sky and surrounding landscape, where concrete walls and wood details contrast vividly. #MexicanArchitecture #IndoorOutdoorLiving #ContemporaryDesign #ArchitecturalInnovation #HomeTours #DesignInspiration #SustainableDesign

One House Design, led by Fang Lei, has conceptualized the Shanghai Techstorm Exhibition Hall as an immersive and eco-centric experience, drawing inspiration from the Daoist philosophy of 'Dao giving birth to all things'. This design approach aims to establish a harmonious relationship between human interaction, product display, and the natural environment. The firm integrates artistic construction with logical design coordination to highlight the interconnectedness of people, products, space, and nature. This philosophy is further reinforced by Techstorm's commitment to sustainable materials, aligning the exhibition's material science narrative with natural evolution. The design effectively utilizes the building's architectural features and varied ceiling heights to weave in brand values and provide an engaging visitor experience. The exhibition hall's layout is structured to guide visitors through a series of curated 'boxes' that showcase Techstorm's products and innovations in material science and sustainable energy solutions. These spaces are interconnected by flowing routes, facilitating immersive and interactive encounters that allow visitors to engage deeply with the brand's pioneering efforts. The design incorporates a bold, cantilevered structure at its entrance, featuring geometric forms and perforated surfaces that create a dynamic interplay of light, color, and composition. The dominant use of red throughout the space is intended to evoke warmth and encourage immersion, emphasizing the relationship between objects, materials, and the surrounding environment. Display shelves within the exhibition serve a dual purpose, functioning as both practical exhibit carriers and decorative elements that inject energy and spatial dynamism into the overall design. A key feature of the eco-inspired design is a carbon-neutral courtyard, enclosed within the building, which enhances the connection between the interior space and nature through the concept of 'borrowed scenery'. The exhibition units feature minimalist geometric forms, creating layers and textures that contribute to a sense of both order and exploration, inviting visitors to partake in interactive spatial experiences. The flexible layout supports both dynamic engagement and contemplative moments with the brand's offerings. From the second floor, visitors gain insights into Techstorm’s research initiatives, establishing visual links that underscore the brand’s mission. The various 'boxes' are linked by covered bridges, ensuring a smooth spatial flow. Glass and metal mesh used in handrails balance transparency with structural integrity, contributing to visual coherence. The second-floor exhibition area is enhanced by a mirrored ceiling, which generates a kaleidoscope-like effect, expanding the perceived space while subtly integrating recessed lighting. Vertical metal strips along the walls provide structural support and visually unify the design, highlighting continuity and functionality. A balcony on the second floor further extends the sense of openness, fostering contemplation and relaxation. The visitor journey culminates with sculptural installations within the stairwells, which serve as a distinctive design element reflecting Techstorm’s circular and eco-conscious philosophy. The thoughtful variations in openings, forms, and colors guide visitors through a curated sequence of intimate and expansive spaces. Strategic lighting and contrasting shapes contribute to a fluid rhythm within the enclosed layout. Ultimately, the Shanghai Techstorm Exhibition Hall, through One House Design’s vision, embodies a blend of spatial fluidity, compelling brand narrative, and ecological harmony, bringing together nature, art, and sustainable design within a single, cohesive experience. The project encompasses an area of 400 sqm in Shanghai, China, led by Fang Lei with design team members Meng Chengpeng and Xu Lei, and documented by photographer Zhang Jing. #OneHouseDesign #ShanghaiArchitecture #TechstormExhibition #DaoistPhilosophy #SustainableDesign #ExhibitionHall #ImmersiveExperience #ArchitecturalDesign #MaterialScience