Located in the center of the city of Mérida, on an irregularly shaped site with a guaya tree as the only pre-existing element prior to the project.

The concept emerges from the syncretism between the worldview of the Maya civilization and the ideas introduced following the arrival of the Spanish to the region, giving rise to an interaction of meanings and symbolisms that have permeated the identity of the region’s architecture.

The complex is organized around a main axis, the “sacbé” (sakbej – white road), extending between the entrance and the guaya tree, framing the latter as a tangible focal point; contained between the diagonal of the existing wall and a new converging wall, reinforcing the intention. The tree, representing nature as a vital element, is embraced by a circular body of water, evoking the sacred cenote; generating a node that pauses, articulates, and distributes.

With a layout that responds to the morphology of the site, the elements are positioned to maximize orientation and views, creating slow-paced pathways through the vegetation in a dialogue between shadow and light. The project is composed of solid volumes with a materiality that evokes the mixture of sascab (sahkab – white earth) and kankab (k’aankab – red earth), native substrates of the region; double-height ceilings, the dominance of solid masses over openings, and a closed façade aligned with the street frontage, alluding to the elements of colonial houses.

The architectural program stems from the needs and activities of the user. The elements are arranged hierarchically in relation to the node and strategically integrated, creating a complex interwoven with vegetation, blurring the thresholds between interior and exterior.

The monochromatic pieces emerge as sculptural elements, fostering dynamic shadows and generating within them a silent, warm, and intimate atmosphere that dissolves through light.