In Xalapa, Mexico, the dark exterior and solid stature of this design by Lopez Gonzalez Studio evokes the possibility of a home carved in the interior of a rock formation.
Formal gestures that complement this suggestion include a sectioning of the house’s volumes that hints at the form of a crack and windows the appear sporadically, yet with a balanced rhythm. Further to the theme, the inside features a play of changing lights and shows, paths that open and close, tighten and widen, and flow into open spaces.
And like a geological formation, the house is surrounded by plants, enveloping the house like a treasure. Differently shaped and sized windows are openings that frame natural elements, inviting the viewer to contemplate the surrounding greenery.
At night, the black house disappears into the darkness with small gaps of light peeking out.
In contrast to the rocky character of the exterior, inside, wood plays an important role and is used for beams, bookshelves, furniture and closets. Adding a sense of wood, the use of wood here furthers the conversation with the landscape. The lightened tone of pine used throughout contrasts against the black exterior, green of the vegetation and feature red frames, which offer a striking contrast not unlike that of a flower.
Ultimately, the architecture here is thought of in such a way that it can allow for time to do its work: plants will grow, walls will become mossy, and the building volume will blend more and more with the landscape.
