naso rebuilds 'casa martha' in mexico with compressed earth blocks

this modest dwelling in mexico state has been completely rebuilt following the devastating earthquake that hit the country in 2017. following the natural disaster, reconstruir méxico invited architecture firm naso to rebuild the property, which is located between malinalco, a renowned archaeological and tourist destination, and chalma, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in mexico. the hilltop residence is situated on a plateau, and occupies the same footprint as the previous structure.

all images by maureen m. evans

‘casa martha’ is home to two parents and their two children, who are both around 40 years old. the elderly mother has some trouble walking, while the father is visually impaired. these factors informed naso’s design, which responds to three fundamental objectives. firstly, it was important to ensure accessible, efficient, and clear circulation routes so that the parents could be as independent as possible. secondly, the design seeks to promote interaction between the parents and children, while respecting their privacy. finally, it was important to include spaces that could facilitate the chance of additional income for the family.

the ground floor of the house contains the shared spaces, including the kitchen, the dining room, and the bathroom. two bedrooms are also included. sliding doors can be opened to allow the dining area to serve as a large porch — immersing occupants in the natural landscape that surrounds them. located on the upper level, the third bedroom — contained beneath the vaulted roof — can be accessed by an independent staircase.

‘the location of this particular house is very interesting since it is close to several points of tourist and pilgrimage attractions,’ says naso. ‘for this reason, having the third bedroom independent to the rest of the house allows us to think of an economic model that could support the family’s income through future rentals on distinct platforms or independent social contracts. this is how the house, in a very small area, has the possibility of accommodating different ways of life whilst offering a stable, social and independent future to a family that needs it.’

project info:

name: casa martha
location: estado de méxico, méxico
site: 45 sqm / 484 sqf
construction period: 2020
architecture office: naso
design team: patricio aldrett, julia ruiz – cabello
landscape design: aldaba
furniture design: nomah
photography: maureen m. evans