Merida Architectural Gem: Turning Concrete Slabs into a Dream Paradise Home

#architecture #housedesign #housetour
Architects: Nutum Estudio
Year:
2023
Photographs:Manolo R Solis
Design Team: Pablo Jose Rivero Vallado, Sara Ferrer Inaebnit, Josep Azuara Robles
City: Merida
Country: Mexico
On a narrow plot on the edge of Mérida's center, a unique house has risen. Where once only cars resided, a concrete slab now forms the base for a vibrant new space. A testament to its history, the house embraces a street art mural on its facade, a reminder of the garage that once stood there. This isn't just a home though, it's a dialogue with the cultural heritage of the Mayan peninsula, the MAYAB.
Local materials like Tzalam wood and cjiwa finishes were chosen, their use not just practical but symbolic. They echo the grand arches of the Governor's Palace in Uxmal, a historical reference woven into the modern design. This isn't about erasing the colonial past, but about reclaiming a forgotten language, one that speaks of a rich cultural tapestry.
The narrow plot presented a challenge, but the architects turned it into an opportunity. The house unfolds in three volumes, each punctuated by breezy patios. These open spaces create a sense of endless growth, light streaming through and fostering connection with nature. Social spaces take center stage in the first two volumes. The kitchen and dining area spills onto a patio with a refreshing pool, while the second volume houses a grand, arched living room. Here, a projector transforms the space into a communal cinema, a space to gather and socialize around the shared love of films.
Privacy is found at the back of the plot, with bedrooms nestled on the ground floor and upper level. Lush greenery surrounds them, with two jabin trees promising a burst of yellow flowers. This vegetation isn't just decorative, it's a functional part of the design. The plants provide privacy and filter the strong tropical sun, ensuring a cool and comfortable haven within. This house in Merida is a fusion of the past and present, a celebration of community, culture, and the beauty of the natural world.
#house #inspirationhome #ideasforhome #architects #dreamhousedesign