Sustainability Report

Q. Did the design draw on any sustainability standards or performance frameworks, even if certification itself wasn’t part of the brief?

Rogelio Vallejo Bores (RVB), lead architect of Casa Tao: “The project wasn’t conceived with a formal certification in mind, but many of the design decisions were guided by the principles of sustainability that we consistently apply in our practice. We relied on passive strategies, low-maintenance materials, and local know-how to align with responsible design standards without making certification the central goal.”

Q. Concrete is such a defining element of the house. Were there steps taken to source or specify it in a low-impact way?

RVB: “Concrete was indeed central to the design. We worked to reduce its impact by limiting finishes and using it both structurally and aesthetically, thereby avoiding additional layers of material. We also sourced aggregates locally, cutting down on transportation emissions. Another important choice was the use of locally crafted woodwork, which not only reduced the project’s footprint but also connected it to regional traditions of making and building.”

Q. Beyond the strong focus on shade and passive cooling, were there other strategies that helped lower the project’s carbon footprint — whether through energy use, renewable integration, or waste reduction on site?

RVB: “Yes, one of our main strategies was to minimise energy consumption by designing spaces that remain comfortable without mechanical systems most of the year. During construction, we made a conscious effort to reduce waste, reusing material whenever possible and working closely with local builders whose expertise helped to optimise resources.”

Q. Do you have any data, or even a qualitative sense, of how the house compares in embodied carbon or energy use to a typical home in the region?

RVB: “We don’t have precise quantitative data, but qualitatively, we can say the house performs better than a typical home in the area. Its reliance on passive cooling, the absence of air conditioning, and the durability of materials contribute to lower energy use and reduced embodied carbon over the long term.”

Q. How did the local climate influence your choices around materials, shading, and ventilation?

RVB: “The climate was one of the most important factors in every decision. The strong sun led us to emphasise shading and deep overhangs. Natural cross-ventilation was carefully studied, allowing the house to remain cool and breathable throughout the year. Materials were chosen for their ability to withstand the local conditions gracefully, aging in a way that adds character rather than deterioration.”