desnivel arquitectos stacks solid volumes and vertical lattice to form 'casa X' in mexico

in a small plot within southern merida, mexico, desnivel arquitectos has built ‘casa X’, taking shape as a tall three-level residence, blending solid volumes and transparent architectural elements. due to the limited dimensions of the site, the design puts particular emphasis on the verticality of the structure, and the smart use of available space. formed as the first house of a young couple, the layout organizes the environment based on the occupants’ lifestyle and everyday activities. 

all images by lorena darquea

while working on ‘casa X’, desnivel arquitectos decided that the north facade should be visually divided into segments, in response to the architectural plan, closed but with transparencies that allow the flow of wind. the exterior combines a mix of grays with dark tones and a wooden lattice, allowing the light and shadows to play an important role in the design. the south facade appears to be much more open, so that it reads as a transparent volume with views towards the existing vegetation.

the architects divided the program into different levels, to generate spaces of indoor-outdoor coexistence, while allowing environments of different characters to emerge. the residence consists of three levels and a basement that houses the cellar and other services. on the ground floor, there is the parking, the service areas, and the pool. this space works independently from the house, even though it’s still connected inside through the central core of the staircase.

upon approaching the dwelling, occupants meet a hierarchical staircase that guides them towards the interior, through a double-height hallway, that works at the same time as a social terrace. the layout gathers all common living areas on the first floor, with the kitchen and the dining room serving as the heart of the house. here, sliding doors are installed on both sides in a square shape, to ensure openness, sufficient lighting, as well as cross-ventilation. on the second floor, there is the main bedroom, formed as a large room with a walk-in closet and a bathroom. 

project info:

name: casa X
architects: desnivel arquitectos
location: merida, mexico

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edited by: myrto katsikopoulou | designboom