Residential SERIES • Project FEATURE
Roots of the Mountain – Casa LL by RA! Arquitectura
At the foot of the imposing Tepozteco, Casa LL emerges as an architectural homage to the natural beauty of its surroundings. With geometric lines evoking eroded monoliths, this project reflects the essence of the landscape in every constructive detail.
Nestled beneath the majestic cliffs of the Tepozteco, Casa LL appears as a structure that seems to grow directly from the rock. RA! Arquitectura has achieved a masterful integration of construction and environment, allowing the house to visually and emotionally converse with the mountain. From its design to the materials used, every element evokes a sense of belonging to the landscape. The residence’s design consists of geometric prisms that separate and unite to shape its interior spaces. These monoliths appear sculpted by the passage of time, creating a narrative that connects the construction to the eroded stones of the hill. The geometries invite exploration, transitioning from an imposing exterior volumetric gesture to an expansive openness towards nature.
"Casa LL is an architectural ode that elevates the dialogue between nature and design."
From the street, the house presents a closed gesture, intentionally concealing its views. As one walks through the access alleys, the large blocks compress and guide the visitor toward the interior. This experience culminates in a striking transition to the main garden, where the house generously opens to the landscape, allowing admiration of the majestic mountains.
The garden, spacious and carefully designed, acts as the heart of Casa LL. Surrounded by living areas such as four bedrooms and the main living room, this green space connects daily life with nature. The volumes extending from the garden create intimate, staggered patios that offer a unique interaction with natural light, especially during the afternoons.
"Where the mountain ends, a structure begins that breathes its essence."
The choice of materials in Casa LL is key to its landscape integration. The main structure combines expanded polystyrene panels with a three-dimensional wire mesh, coated with concrete tinted in shades that echo the Tepozteco’s hues. Extensively used natural stone not only adds durability but also transforms its appearance with changing light throughout the day, enhancing the connection to the environment.
The design makes use of every residual space, transforming them into small patios and secondary gardens that enrich the experience of inhabiting the house. These areas, in addition to allowing natural light to enter, create a sense of privacy and tranquility. The fragmentation of volumes enables both openness to the outdoors and the intimacy required within the interiors.
The photographic documentation of the project highlights the symbiotic relationship between the house and the mountain. The images capture how the tones of the natural stone reflect and absorb light, showcasing the dynamic interaction between the construction and the landscape. Each photograph seeks to convey the essence of Casa LL as an extension of the Tepozteco.
Casa LL has garnered significant recognition for its innovative design and harmony with its surroundings. This project not only redefines residential architecture in natural contexts but also serves as an example of how construction can pay homage to the landscape rather than compete with it.
