Casa de Mar Single Family Residence

Absolutely. The central pool in Casa de Mar is both a climatic and experiential core of the project. Positioned at the heart of the horseshoe-shaped layout, it functions as a natural cooling system by generating cross-ventilation and evaporative cooling, lowering indoor temperatures without relying heavily on mechanical air conditioning. This passive strategy not only reduces energy consumption but also enhances comfort by maintaining a consistent, pleasant microclimate throughout the day.Beyond its technical performance, the pool becomes a sensorial element, reflecting light into the interior spaces, introducing the sound and movement of water, and visually connecting the social and private areas of the house. It transforms daily routines into experiences closely tied to nature, reinforcing our goal of creating architecture that breathes, adapts, and lives in balance with its environment.

Our approach to spatial continuity in Casa de Mar was deeply inspired by the way traditional Yucatecan homes engage with nature, particularly their use of patios, terraces, and transitional spaces that blur the line between indoors and outdoors. In Mérida’s tropical climate, daily life naturally flows toward the exterior, and we wanted to reinterpret that vernacular logic in a contemporary way.The house is designed so that natural light, wind, and vegetation become active components of the architecture. Open corridors, framed garden views, and the central pool create a living environment that breathes and evolves throughout the day. This continuity not only enhances comfort but also reflects the cultural rhythm of Yucatán; where life is slower, more tactile, and deeply connected to the landscape. Ultimately, the goal was to create a home that feels both grounded in its context and timeless in its simplicity, resonating with the region’s spirit of quiet sophistication and respect for nature.

The material selection for Casa de Mar was guided by a desire to root the project in its place, both environmentally and culturally. We began by studying the textures, tones, and building traditions of Yucatán, where limestone, tropical woods, and handcrafted finishes are integral to the local identity. These materials were not chosen only for their beauty, but for their performance in the region’s climate: stone provides thermal mass that regulates temperature, while wood adds warmth and tactility to the interiors.We collaborated closely with local artisans and suppliers to ensure that each element carried the authenticity of regional craftsmanship while meeting the durability and maintenance needs of contemporary living. This process created a dialogue between tradition and modernity; where familiar materials are reinterpreted through minimalist details and refined proportions. The result is an architecture that doesn’t compete with its surroundings but coexists with them, aging gracefully and reinforcing a sense of belonging to the Yucatecan landscape.