Laboratorio de Arquitectura Unveils Sensory Concrete House in Querétaro
The renowned Mexican studio, Laboratorio de Arquitectura, has unveiled an extraordinary residential masterpiece in Querétaro, Mexico. The Capuchinas House, a 477-square-meter residence, showcases the studio's innovative approach to architecture, focusing on the sensory potential of a single material: concrete.
Contextual Design with a Twist
Unlike its neighboring homes, Capuchinas House stands out with its unique identity rooted in contextual response. The design challenges generic typologies, emphasizing the expressive and sensory qualities of concrete. Juan Carlos Kelly, the architect behind the project, explains, "Capuchinas House is an exploration of the material's potential, an opportunity to create an atmosphere through light, shadow, and texture."
The Iconic Concrete Block
At the heart of the project is a specially designed sand-colored concrete block, measuring 4 cm x 30 cm x 15 cm. Its unique proportions and tongue-and-groove system are the key to the architects' success. The studio states, "This single element drives the architectural identity and aesthetic unity, creating a continuous, joint-free surface."
Versatile Applications of the Block
The concrete block serves multiple purposes. It is used for full cladding in some spaces, providing a sleek and modern look. Additionally, it acts as a lattice-like facade, serving as a solar screen and privacy filter while defining the exterior perimeter of the terrace. Inside, the block creates finished wall surfaces and screens, balancing privacy and openness.
A Unified Architectural Experience
The disciplined use of the concrete block throughout the house creates a unified architectural and sensory experience. The studio highlights the challenge and success of this approach, stating, "It demanded in-depth research into its modular logic, construction behavior, and aesthetic performance."
A Restrained Design with Rich Results
The project demonstrates that restraint can lead to richness. By focusing on a single material, the architects created a diverse range of spaces, moods, and experiences. Kelly emphasizes, "The project showed that deep exploration of a material or idea can produce a variety of outcomes."
A Thoughtful Layout for Efficient Living
Capuchinas House is designed for efficiency, accommodating one person comfortably while providing space for hosting guests. The ground floor features a long bar-like layout for living, dining, kitchen, and lounge areas. The primary suite occupies the southeastern corner, offering privacy and comfort. Upstairs, three suites are arranged along a corridor, each with walls of windows overlooking the southwest side of the property.
Basement Amenities and Outdoor Spaces
The basement includes a four-car garage, service spaces, and an extra bedroom with access to a sunken courtyard. A large terrace space intersects the main level, creating an open backyard and promoting cross-ventilation. The landscaping enhances this connection with native, drought-tolerant plants, existing tree relocation, and a central garden tree, fostering an ecological dialogue with the site.
Recent Querétaro Projects
Quéretaro has witnessed a wave of exciting architectural projects. CAAM + Arquitectos' Soko Restaurant, Reims 502's basalt-clad home with a rooftop pool, and Heryco's pink-toned apartment complex renovation are just a few examples of the city's thriving design scene.
Photography and Credits
The stunning photography for this project is credited to Ariadna Polo. The project's credits include Laboratorio de Arquitectura as the studio, Juan Carlos Kelly as the architect, Ixchel Muñoz, Saúl Cabrera, and Paulina Moreno as the design team, Ixchel Muñoz Paisajismo for landscaping, DFC for furniture, ANKUI for carpentry, SPEC for construction, and Procesos en Mármoles de Querétaro for coverings.
