While it doesn’t perform well in harsh climates, Casa Mateo’s design is a perfect fit for the relatively warmer parts of Mexico’s Pacific coast. A residence that proposes a comfortable semi-outdoor life with an open floor plan that blurs the boundaries between inside and outside.
Casa Mateo by Zozaya Arquitectos is located in Guerrero, Mexico and measures 488 square meters (approximately 5,250 square feet). It is accessed by an external staircase surrounded by stone walls through winding mountain roads. Visitors find themselves in the central courtyard area of the house. Most of it is occupied by water features and stepping stones are placed.
The house is divided into two separate structures located on either side of this water courtyard. The private area, including the bathroom and bedroom, and the garage are located on the side furthest from the shoreline, with a living room, kitchen, dining room, and master bedroom facing the ocean.
The coastline-facing section is definitely the more striking part of the home, with large sliding glass windows and doors to the outside. There is also an infinity pool located in the
Caesar Berio
“The house is divided into two shapes that help programatically distinguish between private and social spaces,” explains Zozaya Arquitectos. “Thus, the first room has three bedrooms with their own bathrooms, the second room contains the room, dining room and kitchen, with the possibility of integrating with the pergola terrace and grill. There is a master bedroom in the same volume, a private space with direct access to the infinity pool and ocean view.”
Although the project is not sustainable, Casa Mateo has some green design. The open layout helps maintain comfortable temperatures with breezes, but ceiling fans and air conditioning units are also installed when needed. Lush green roofs improve insulation and a graywater treatment system is installed to significantly reduce water usage.
Source: Zozaya Architectural Design Office
