rhythmic openings shape mexican housing complex by P11 arquitectos

P11 Arquitectos designs a housing complex covered in chukum

P11 Arquitectos has introduced Corazón de Tierra, a multifamily complex with 54 housing units located in northern Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico. The layout fragments a large volume into four distinct elements, creating access points, central circulation, and social spaces within the gaps between these volumes. The facades‘ variable openings and solid sections create a dynamic play of light and shadow throughout the day, giving the building rhythm, movement, and character. Local materials such as chukum and stone give the complex a distinct regional identity while ensuring high durability with low maintenance. A mixture of chukum stucco with red earth (kancab) covers residential buildings, while natural chukum is applied in public spaces. Flagstone, a byproduct of the site’s excavation, emphasizes the volume that unifies the main circulation area.

all images by Eduardo Calvo

Corazon de Tierra protects residents from Mexico’s hot climate

Addressing the high demand for housing in the area, Corazón de Tierra occupies a 4,700 sqm rectangular corner lot oriented south-north. Two compositional axes structure the complex: a transverse axis framing the entrance and leading to central and social areas, and a longitudinal axis marked by a regional stone wall that runs through the central space, visually connecting the exterior facades. The design by P11 Arquitectos captures breezes from the north and east through the gaps between the volumes, leveraging the region’s prevailing winds for climatic comfort. The Mexico-based studio orients all spaces north-south, which is essential for comfort in Mérida’s hot climate.

Corazón de Tierra accommodates 54 housing units

the layout by P11 Arquitectos fragments a large volume into four distinct elements

access points, central circulation, and social spaces are located within the gaps between the volumes

variable openings and solid sections create a dynamic play of light and shadow

chukum and stone give the complex a distinct regional identity

P11 Arquitectos covers residential buildings with chukum stucco with red earth

flagstone emphasizes the volume that unifies the main circulation area

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all spaces are oriented north-south

Corazón de Tierra occupies a 4,700 sqm rectangular corner lot

the orientation of the complex is essential for comfort in Mérida's hot climate

two compositional axes structure the complex

P11 Arquitectos captures breezes from the north and east through the gaps between the volumes

a longitudinal axis marked by a regional stone wall runs through the central space

project info:

name: Corazon de Tierra
architect: P11 arquitectos | @p11arquitectos
location: Mérida, Yucatán, Mexico
area: 4,700 sqm
photographer: Eduardo Calvo | @eduardo_calvo_fotografia

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edited by: thomai tsimpou | designboom