casa laurel is designed as a retreat for a retired couple in oaxaca, mexico

casa laurel, a retreat for an older couple

‘casa laurel’ is a welcoming dwelling, designed to accommodate an older couple that decided to retire in the city of oaxaca, mexico. with this project, miguel avila architecture sought to meet the owners’ needs which may become increasingly demanding over time. therefore, one of the main challenges was to avoid changing floor levels —something that can be pretty exhausting for older people — in a property covered by a slope with a difference of 12 meters.all images by amy bello

casa laurel blends into its rural surroundings in mexico

for this project, the design team combined stone, concrete, dark metal, and wooden details to evoke tones of the surrounding landscape. as a result, although the house is articulated by big massive volumes, it still blends into its topography.  ‘casa laurel’ is designed to house a couple that longs for a retreat space, a quiet place full of harmony and stillness. therefore, the architects took advantage of the site and provided the inhabitants with unobstructed views: a pleasant atmosphere, that gives them the opportunity to enjoy a sunset or wake up by hearing the sound of birds.

to highlight the views and the intimate environment, a suspended outdoor pool completes the design. its volume is designed in a cantilever, achieved by a metal framework that seems to hover above the ground. the result is a magical space that immerses its users into the natural environment. as the architects mentioned, the name of the house is dedicated to an existing laurel tree in the place, which was respected and to which the house was attached.

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project info:

name: casa laurel

architects: miguel avila architecture

structural engineering: LM structures

suppliers: cemex, interceramic, tecnolite, axerum

location: mexico 

photography: amy bello