goko completes contemplative house of eight gardens in mexico

goko completes contemplative house of eight gardens in mexico
all images courtesy of aki itami r.

life in the city is frantic, hyper-active, and never ceasing. quality of life, to the vast majority, is continually measured in material possessions and luxuries rather than experiences. though difficult, distancing oneself from that system both physically and mentally is a critical step in finding balance and peace of mind; and where better to start then at home?

linear division from home and garden 

opting for practically and sincerity, mexican architecture firm goko created the ‘house of eight gardens’. in response to the client’s needs, the design emphasizes quality over square meterage with special attention paid to natural lighting optimization, greater interaction with nature, and uninterrupted relaxation.

patio and hot tub 

‘house of eight gardens’ starts from a center point, where a tabachín tree rests peacefully in the midst of a small pond. connected to the heart of the home are all spaces, each with direct access to one of eight inner gardens. full floor-to-ceiling windows are present in every room, allowing abundant natural light inside while emphasizing views outwards. the high interior normalizes temperature within, a crucial factor in the central mexico location.

entrance hall 

artificial lighting is accomplished with efficient LEDs, water catchment and treatment systems are used, and solar power offsets consumption for electrical and water heating needs. though architecture plays a fundamental role on the house, goko’s true intent lies within the residence’s numerous considered spaces for contemplation. ‘house of eight gardens’ is a place to get away from the madness of urban life, and focus inwardly on nothing but pleasure, relaxation, and experience. 

cycad garden 

living room 

macuilli garden 

view from master bedroom 

bathroom 

project info:

name: ‘house of eight gardens’, cuernavaca
architectural design: goko MX (christopher köhn, jose martín gonzález)
project manager: isaac guzmán
construction: vansa
landscape design: polen
landscape lighting: martín leal
photography: aki itami r.
completion date: october, 2014
location: cuernavaca, morelos, mexico

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: nick brink | designboom