REA designs a stone house with an artisanal touch in the heartland of aztec culture

REA, the mexican studio led by rozana montiel has recently completed this home off the beaten path.  In the little mexican town of tepoztlán, it’s clear to see the rich history, from the ancient stone that lines the streets. the trained eye would know that it’s texcal, carved in the meticulous tradition of the ancient aztecs. actually tepoztlán is considered the origin of aztec history, from where the feathered serpent god was born. the mountain town is full of artifacts from the past, now covered with centuries of vegetation, and it’s hard to ignore the aura of mystery. REA, building a stone house on the ruins of the ancient aztec 

all images by sandra pereznieto

REA has built a sharp geometrical space off of this beautifully crafted texcal stone base. the various sizes and shapes of the stone fitting together mathamatically to form a coherent whole; an arduous task, achieving an appearance of permanence. the home provides modern comfort in a mysterious style that doesn’t belong to any time but only to the landscape.  the materials of the house are fairly mute and soft on the eye; the only profound colors in the space are derived from the vibrant nature outside: the rich forest green from the plants and the deep blue of the fountain in the atrium. these natural color embellish the blank canvas of stone and unfinished woods. 

the plan is open, allowing free movement of light, air and feet. why would one create a barricade against nature when the weather is constantly so pleasant. therefore, the home is open to the elements with a sunroof and series of others diveders that simply blur the line between interior and exterior. light floods into the house from all angles, as the sun rises and sets.