House T

Studio arquitectos

Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico

© Pablo Garcia Figueroa

House T is a private residence composed of three vacation studios. The client, a New York fashion designer, wanted a space set amidst the vibrant textures and colors of a Caribbean paradise, and, most important, one adapted to the tropical framework. The concept “coming from a city—New York—to the Tropical Caribbean—Tulum” is expressed through the juxtaposition of polished cement and lush vegetation. The client’s involvement in the design insured a personalized house organized around a distinctive geometry and a striking combination of materials that visually play on the “T” brand name.

 

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The effort to minimize the impact of the building on the site entailed the preservation of many of the existing trees, which in turn, are integrated into the design of the house.

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The integration of natural elements into the design of the house results in a composition of shapes, rhythms, and textures, catching the spectator by surprise at every turn of a corner.

The formed-concrete shell is filled in with glass panels, most of which slide open to seamlessly connect interior and exterior spaces, and enhance the clarity of the building’s structure.

 

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The concrete industry is making advances in reducing energy consumption and the emission of greenhouse gas. One of concrete’s environmental benefits is its high thermal mass, which reduce energy usage.

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Front elevation

Back elevation

Section T01

Side elevation

Section L01

Second-floor plan

Ground-floor plan

 

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The house boasts a feeling of lightness, mainly achieved through the perpendicular stacking of the two floors. This orthogonal positioning generates a series of outdoor spaces, some open to the elements, others protected under deep cantilevers.

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Exposed raw materials are used throughout the house, creating a seamless continuity between interior and exterior spaces.

In line with the design concept of the project—urban dwelling meets Caribbean paradise—the modularity of the concrete staircase contrasts with the organic forms found in the garden.

Mosaic floor and wall tile and a formed concrete vanity lend this bathroom a sophisticated urban appeal in keeping with the concept of the design.