Project: El Mirador House
Architects: CC Arquitectos
Location: Valle de Bravo, Mexico
Area: 4,940 sq ft
Photographs by: Rafael Gamo
El Mirador House by CC Arquitectos
The El Mirador House is an almost 5,000 square feet residence by CC Arquitectos. The home is located in Valle de Bravo, a forested municipality that warps a corner of the Lake Avandaro, about 90 miles southwest of Mexico City.
The house serves its purpose as it is located on an edge of the site where the emblematic lake can be seen from above. It was designed keeping the well-being of the forest in mind, anchored to its topography and reducing its constructive impact.
From the architects: ” El Mirador serves its purpose as it is located on an edge of the site, where the emblematic lake of the area can be seen from above. It was designed based on respecting the forest where it is located, anchored to its topography and reducing its constructive impact. The materials used are from the region, and railroad ties from old train tracks where recycled for the exterior cladding.
The structure is a combined system of steel and wood, and retaining walls are made of local stone. Many of the interior walls are clad in white oak that adds a touch of warmth to the spaces while remaining contemporary.”
“The program consists of a large family room that connects to the outside expanding the social area to the front terrace. It has a bedroom and bathroom. The kitchen has a large bar made of slate stone that serves a dining area. The relaxed program and its arrangement in the space reinforce the character of relaxation and intense social life for which it was designed. The main entrance has a large reflecting pool that ends in a trough for horses, while a low wood wall hides the parking area.
El Mirador is half buried on one side in order to protect the living spaces from the cold climate of the valley. The design of the pavilion is articulated around vegetation, views and rustic finishes.”
