The Rajuela House was designed with a clear intent: to create a more manageable and inviting space for an elderly resident who had previously lived in a modern house that became increasingly difficult to maintain. The client, tired of the constant upkeep required by large windows, high ceilings, and excessive white interiors, sought a simpler, more comfortable home. The result is a tropical, low-maintenance home that embraces both functionality and aesthetics, providing an ideal environment for both the owner and her grandchildren.
The house sits on a 25m x 35m plot, with a linear design that ensures all living spaces face north, maximizing sunlight and natural ventilation. This design takes advantage of the region’s prevailing northeast and southeast winds, optimizing air circulation. The house is structured around a 4.5-meter module, giving it a consistent and approachable scale.
The design prioritizes accessibility and convenience for the elderly resident. Upon entering, visitors pass through a series of overlapping walls leading to a defined hall. The hall serves as a boundary, providing privacy when needed while allowing for an inviting space to receive guests. Moving beyond, the home opens into a double-height living area that merges seamlessly with the dining and kitchen spaces, separated by a low black granite wall.
The living spaces extend toward the terrace and garden, blending the indoors with the outdoors. This connection creates a sense of openness while maintaining shelter from the harsh sun. The layout fosters an integrated environment where interior and exterior spaces feel cohesive and welcoming, perfect for enjoying the outdoors with minimal maintenance.
The design features simple, yet impactful materials, with a particular focus on the local Yucatan stone called Rajuela. This stone, made up of small, sharp pieces arranged to create a textured surface, brings an intriguing interplay of light and shadow. The polished stone flooring inside contrasts beautifully with the more rustic exterior, while wood and granite elements add warmth and texture throughout.
The material choices reflect the project’s commitment to durability and ease of maintenance, key aspects of the homeowner’s request for a relaxed, low-maintenance lifestyle. The use of stone and natural elements also ties the home to the local context, with the traditional Rajuela stone evoking the region’s architectural heritage.
The home is organized into a linear flow, with bedrooms strategically placed to face the north, ensuring comfort and privacy. The spaces are connected by a circulation path that culminates in a sculptural element, adding visual interest to the layout. Service areas are located on the second floor, discreetly separated from the main living spaces.
At the heart of the Rajuela House is the desire to create a comfortable, low-maintenance environment where the elderly owner can enjoy life with her grandchildren without the stress of constant upkeep. The design ensures that the children can feel at home, with spaces conducive to their playful and energetic activities. The result is a home where both generations can thrive, surrounded by simplicity, natural beauty, and a sense of timelessness.
Conclusion
The Rajuela House is a thoughtful blend of traditional materials, modern design, and functional simplicity. Muñoz Arquitectos succeeded in creating a home that offers ease of living without sacrificing aesthetic quality, proving that modern architecture can be both beautiful and practical. The careful integration of natural materials and the seamless flow between interior and exterior spaces make this home a true sanctuary for the elderly resident and her family.
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