The inspiration behind this project in Morelia, Mexico, is derived from carefully listening to the subtle murmurs and whispers of environments like this, as well as the client’s search for protection and shelter. At the same time, this project generates a continuity in the beautiful living surface around the land, forming a new hill in a place already surrounded by many.
Four concrete walls surprisingly emerge from the landscape; two of them bearing the land of the new hill created, and two others framing the access as they escort guests into the house.
The path leads to an old tree. After crossing this threshold, going down a few solid stone steps, and opening a heavy steel door, a concrete vault stands, supporting the loads of the green bed sheet that rests upon it; providing a sensation of being inside a cold, dark, but strangely cozy cave.
The flooring emphasizes an aroma of wood that is perceived when surrounded by pine trees, providing balance to the cold temperature of the concrete; and finally, steel that, with time and rainfall, acquires an appearance like tree bark.
As for the spatial organization, public areas on the left side of the house are completely exposed to the wooded ravine, and on the right side are open more timidly to a courtyard with treetop and sky views.
The refrigerator and appliances are hidden, the lighting is arranged very discreetly, and only the four main materials were included: stone, wood, concrete, and steel. It was very important for the client to preserve the rough and primitive atmosphere of being in the mountains.