TACO adds 'plazoleta' to casa gabriela in mexico

creating a space of serenity while serving as a refuge, TACO (taller de arquitectura contextual) has designed ‘casa gabriela’ — a single-detached dwelling located in the south mexican city of merida. tucked away from the street, this purposeful siting enables the property to form a ‘plazoleta’ ie, a small square which is popular among traditional yucatecan architecture. having this extra area sitting in front of the home serves as a public area for social purposes and subtly highlights the building’s access.

all images by leo espinosa

perceived in the interior spaces and in the front of the home, water features permeate the home, offering a visual connection between the building and nature. characterized by its clay-like, concrete structure, the natural form of the building was arranged to achieve an optimum internal temperature, ventilation, while the low-lying roofs are thermally isolated with polystyrene panels.

the double heights have zenith openings that allows hot air to escape

due to the climate, mosquitoes are a problem and permits constant natural ventilation due to windows being shut

the stucco walls and concrete floors gives an unexpected warmth

bathroom

water features run throughout the home

 concrete lattices protect the inside of the house from rain, vandalism and hurricanes

walls and low ceilings use a burnished waterproof cement based stucco

the lattice, tiled walls seen throughout is a consistent feature throughout

the property at night

model of casa gabriela / TACO arquitectura