Estudio MMX designed the concrete and brick volumes of the CMR House to create an elegant contrast with a verdant subtropical garden.
Mexico City–based Estudio MMX designed this concrete and dark brick house around an existing garden that they found too beautiful to demolish. In order to keep the garden intact, the architects decided to break up the program of the living room, kitchen, dining area, and bedrooms, and split them up into individual units set along the garden’s edge.
The living room features large picture windows with garden views, airy ceilings, and striking black brick walls.
Photo: Rafael Gamo
“The volumes are connected through transitional spaces that frame views of the garden, encouraging residents to make pauses while moving through the house.” Says Diego Ricalde, one of Estudio MMX’s four partners. The house’s unique layout is intended to promote a connection between the inhabitants and the natural surroundings.
The lush garden is a presence throughout the house.
Photo by Rafael Gamo
When a person moves through the house, the lush subtropical garden is their constant companion, framed in the massive windows that are the centerpiece of most rooms, and at the edges of concrete walkways and terraces. When walking from one room to another, a person moves through the garden instead of simply through a doorway.
CMR House’s rectilinear volumes stand out against the surrounding greenery.
Photo by Rafael Gamo
See the full story on Dwell.com: This House Outside of Mexico City Was Designed Around its Garden
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