manuel cervantes estudio builds mexican residence as a semi-buried viewing platform

‘hill house’ by manuel cervantes estudio is embedded in nature

beside the vistas, architect manuel cervantes integrated the local climate, light, and the site terrain as key factors in defining the placement of the house and orientation of its openings. the final result is a south-facing platform that is half-buried to the north to protect against the cold season.

the project is composed of two main ‘blocks’ connected by a half-buried patio where visitors can access the house. the first block accommodates a master bedroom with a painting studio and a social area formed by a living room, a dining room and a bar – with an open terrace that can be used on warm days. the common space also links to the kitchen, the service room, and an indoor pool with a large window that opens onto a view of the terrace. the second block, meanwhile, hosts four additional bedrooms. 

adopting sustainable architecture 

cervantes built ‘hill house’ using a mixture of masonry walls, metallic beams and wood, as well as rustic-looking and exposed concrete walls. combined together, this material selection creates a natural integration with the landscape and communicates respect for the site through a strategic application of finishes and a color palette that echoes the hues of the surrounding nature. 

the project is completed by a series of stone-walled terraces that allow for rainwater harvesting. the design of the terraces reduces the speed of water flow, facilitates infiltration and reduces erosion that may be caused by the unevenness of the land. all in all, concepts of sustainability are deeply enmeshed in the character of ‘hill house’. 

photography: rafael gamo

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: lea zeitoun | designboom