- Architecture & development
This residence, on a narrow plot opposite a protected bay in Tulum, Mexico, was designed to be completely self-sufficient and to immerse the residents in the diverse range of environments the site provides.
A narrow path takes visitors through the dense vegetation to a large living/dining room/kitchen area that is fully open to the beach a little further away. Four bedrooms, upstairs and next to this room, can also be fully opened up on the outside. The transparency of the house allows the prevailing winds to flow through and provides cooling while maximizing the visibility of the site.
The house is driven by a photovoltaic blind which provides shade to a large roof terrace. This terrace also collects rainwater that has been filtered and stored for usage. Other parts of the roof are planted with native species for insulation and shelter. All waste is processed through an ingenious system, including an artificial swamp. Casa Xixim is an ecological luxurious and energy-neutral house that is in complete harmony with its surroundings.
Images © Taggart Sorensen