taller estilo arquitectura turns narrow lot in mexico into kaleidoscopic dwelling

taller estilo arquitectura managed to create ‘kaleidos house’, a comfortable and functional single-family home in a lot measuring 4m x 69m (13ft x 226ft). not only they fit three bedrooms, a kitchen, a captivating entrance and a double-height lobby, but they created a sensory experience lasting throughout the length of the residence. the existing 70s structure was kept and incorporated into the project located in mexico. in order to differentiate the old structure from the new design, the architects played with contrasting materials and achieved the clear definition of both periods.

eclectic vestibule featuring traditional pasta tiles paired with modern decor

the old part retains its traditional character with two clearly defined spaces, whose walls and ceilings are finished in stucco with paint, and the floors are made of ‘pasta tiles’, characteristic of the region. unlike the older structure, the architect’s added building is a monolithic interior box with a semicircular perforation strategically placed to generate natural lighting and ventilation. walls and ceilings are made of polished grey concrete and while some floors match the walls’ polished concrete finish, other floors have a hammered texture adding a warm feel to the space.

red entrance view

inside the house there is only one closed space and no changes in levels, leaving an open area traversing all through the project. the only enclosed areas are the private and service rooms, which hide behind a blue-tinted mirrored wall that curves along the side of the residence and cuts through both levels. the mirror is one-way meaning there is visibility from the inside out, but not from the outside in. like a kaleidoscope, the series of mirrors strategically cladding the cylindrical volume creates an optical illusion; these walls produce an infinite set of reflections that vary throughout the day due to the light and shadows. natural light comes in through the semicircular perforation placed on top of the interior garden and the sculptural staircase to access the private area.

electrifying yellow metal staircase is at the center of the double-height lobby area

the designer’s contemporary proposal features a winding path connecting spaces and rooms throughout the project. the path enables the guests to experience the house little by little, where materials, scale and lighting vary from one area to the next. the two areas that date from different eras are connected through a semi-enclosed patio that creates the first recess of the 69m-long route and serves as a transition between the two. the courtyard is a pause between the entrance area and the space that lies beyond.

kitchen

the architectural solution that taller estilo arquitectura proposed for ‘kaleidos house’ results in a unique, contemporary home despite the challenge of working with such limited dimensions. the result is a dwelling full of unexpected pieces and spatial sensations that make it a special dwelling in mexico.

kaleidoscope mirror volume from ground floor

salmon-colored facade refurbished for project

rear facade

double height space with mirrored volume

kitchen with warm wooden cabinets

red hall with garden

terrace