adobe skin made of clay & straw shapes vacation house in mexico

‘Casa Corsal’ modifies existing rustic villa in mexico

‘Casa Corsal’ by Echeri Arquitectura and MCH Arquitecto Interiorista forms two small vacation houses out of an existing rustic villa located in the town of Tacámbaro, in Michoacán. Paying homage to the artisanal and constructive heritage of the region, the structure integrates local systems and materials, combined with bespoke designed objects and furniture. Situated near the Pátzcuaro lake area, in Mexico, the residence stands on a trapezoidal site surrounded by narrow streets and vernacular architecture. A large adobe wall covered with a clay-straw plaster rises to shape the building’s facade allowing users privacy, while a brick lattice subtly connects the property with the urban context. Entering through a narrow door and corridor, the space arrangement leads to a courtyard that distributes the rest of the program. The designed hospitality spaces are respectfully integrated into the existing volume.

The renovated edifice respects most of the natural elements, such as trees, rocks, and the climate of the region, and incorporates them into the project. The two houses respond to the site’s topography and the position of the existing plantation taking advantage of the slopped terrain and leveling the height difference with platforms and terraces, avoiding unnecessary excavations. Along with the complementary spaces, a red-brick pavilion stands out using handcrafted vaults and a ‘rose-shaped’ window. The two cabins cover a triangular-shaped floor plan, with an inverted position forming an organic geometry and fluidity on the exterior walls.

all images by César Belio – Balance Studio Creativo

the interior features custom furniture designed by local artists

Each one of the 260 sqm houses encompasses two bedrooms, a kitchen, one bathroom, a dining area, and a living room. The common zones function as the main axis for the houses, while the private areas are distributed on both sides of the homes and open timidly to the outside. The residence’s main structure is composed of adobe bricks, manufactured with local soil from the excavations, and rendered with a mix of clay, lime, and natural pigments. The earthy palette of ochre natural tones is complemented with the use of timber, and custom clay flooring made of tile debris.

The interior design sustains the vernacular style of the area and features furniture and objects designed by one of the architects, created by an initiative that recognizes and involves the work of local artisans and artists. Drawing by the colors and textures of the region, the decoration assembles elements and handicrafts typical of the state of Michoacán, such as clay griddles, rugs, and woven lamps. The architecture and interior design complement each other, while the materiality and reduced surface of the spaces evoke silence and introspection. The management of height difference with sloping roofs forms a visual amplitude to the interior arrangement.

a red-brick pavilion stands out using handcrafted vaults