ribbed concrete surfaces compose fmt estudio's residential project in mexico

El Tirón arranges a residence and a double-height studio

Mexican architectural practice FMT Estudio takes over the construction of ‘El Tirón’, a project that features two independent dwellings located on a narrow and irregular plot of land in Mérida. The architectural design emphasizes the continuity and fluidity of the space, guiding a linear path that meanders along the land and incorporates volumes and patios as the project develops. The structure arranges a disaggregated residence and a double-height studio. The environmental conservation of existing high-density trees on the site holds one of the most notable features of El Tirón, leading to the creation of interior patios that optimize natural lighting and cross-ventilation and integrate with the living spaces. The outdoor natural element extends the living space enhancing spatial continuity by forming a sequence of ‘open and close’ areas that traverse deeper into the property. 

ribbed concrete walls face the central courtyard | all images by Zaickz Moz

swimming pool courtyard connects the living spaces

The entrance leads to the rear house through a tunnel that ensures connectivity between the two living spaces without losing privacy. The pool, situated in the sunniest area of the property, acts as a meeting point between the two areas while maintaining a notional partition. The studio layout encompasses a kitchen and dining area, and a double-height living room all-in-one accompanied by an internal patio, while the mezzanine level includes a bedroom with a full bathroom. The textured, ribbed concrete wall that surrounds the patio also connects with the pool, providing a cohesive and unified design character. The design team arranges a small courtyard with a staircase surrounding a large zapote tree directing circulation toward the kitchen that serves as the common center of the house. The program of the rear house includes two bedrooms with bathrooms, a flexible pavilion, and storage areas, all sharing interior terraces.

a walkway leads from the entrance to the rear house

facade appears monolithic and framed by existing trees

The second floor is designed with a focus on the contemplation of the surrounding treetops. The exterior of the building contrasts with the open spaces of the interior areas. The facade is set back from the alignment appearing monolithic and framed by a mamey tree. The design concept for both spaces concentrates on using materials with visible finishes that honor artisanal work and highlight the construction process. The project has a minimal architectural footprint on the site, built to harmoniously integrate into its natural environment and optimize the use of resources while attending to environmental conservation and ensuring that the architecture yields to the site. As a result, the space exudes serenity with minimal expression and materials, providing ample opportunity to contemplate the surrounding exterior views and enjoy the interior space.

the studio and the home are separated by a swimming pool courtyard

the facade appears monolithic and is framed by a mamey tree

the smaller courtyards are extensions of the living areas

the courtyard acts as a meeting point between the studio and the house

the project preserves existing high-density trees on the site

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the patios allow natural cross-ventilation

the kitchen is the social center of the house

the interiors are furnished with items from Mexican brands

the layout forms a linear path that concludes with the bedroom

the project includes custom-made wood furniture

project info:

name: El Tirón
designer: FMT Estudio | @fmt.estudio

location: Mérida, Mexico

photography: Zaickz Moz | @zaickz.moz

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edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom