Located at the foot of an imposing crag in the Barrio de San Juan, Malinalco, a region known for its lush vegetation and unique landscapes, the house takes full advantage of the singular views, harmoniously integrating both the natural surroundings and the existing country house, enhancing the connection between the inhabited space and the surrounding landscape.
The project follows the "Soft Loft" concept, a continuous space that promotes an open, fluid, and flexible living experience. The open layout of the space highlights freedom of movement, maximizing the sense of spaciousness through high ceilings and large windows that frame the landscape and allow for a deep visual and physical connection between the interior and exterior.
Integration with nature is key: the crag becomes the protagonist of the space, forming an active part of the project, utilizing large windows that enhance its presence, encourage interaction, and provide abundant natural light.
The house has a built area of 72 square meters, complemented by a terrace with a jacuzzi and an interstitial garden, which reinforce the experience of connection with the natural surroundings. This garden also creates a green zone that acts as both a visual barrier and an integrating element of the landscape. This solution addresses one of the clients’ primary requests: the ability to separate the new project from the existing country house on the property, providing enough privacy for different groups to inhabit the space simultaneously.
Despite the continuous nature of the space, the chimney plays a central role in the project, not only for its practical function, but also as a key element in the spatial configuration, defining zones without interrupting the spatial continuity.
The choice of materials reflects the desire to integrate with the local landscape and take advantage of Malinalco's construction traditions. Stone is the primary material, paying homage to the region's traditional architecture and leveraging the skills of local builders in handling stone and quarry materials. The floors, countertops, and bathrooms are finished with a polished concrete, the color achieved by mixing cement with local earth, resulting in a unique tone that reinforces the connection between the project and its surroundings. The roof structure is composed of beams and slabs, with a final finish of white stucco, the same as the masonry walls. This creates a continuous and fluid atmosphere in which the stone walls and framed views of the crag and landscape stand out.
The wrought iron windows and doors, selected to take advantage of Malinalco's tradition in ironwork and utilitarian forging, provide an artisanal element that reinforces the local identity. The use of local techniques and materials also reduces the ecological footprint of the project, aligning with sustainability principles.
