Casa Aguacates – Avocado House by Francisco Pardo is an enchanting architectural work nestled in the Mexican forest, designed as a refuge for a young couple and their child. With the aim of preserving the natural landscape, the house is completely underground and offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding forest.
In the heart of the evocative lake region of Valle del Bravo, just two hours away from the frenetic Mexico City, lies an enchanting refuge that combines architecture and nature in a harmonious embrace. Casa Aguacates – Avocado House, designed by Mexican architect Francisco Pardo to house a young couple and their child, is a magical place that allows you to escape urban life and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the Mexican forest.
The primary objective of this project was clear: to offer the inhabitants a serene and evocative retreat in which they could escape the bustle of the city and enjoy a privileged view of the lush forest. But there was a particular desire on the part of the clients that guided the entire design process: to preserve the avocado field that characterized the surrounding land. This challenge inspired a bold and innovative idea: literally burying the house in the ground.
Architect Francisco Pardo embraced this unique vision and created an architectural work of art that blends seamlessly with its surroundings. The structure, characterized by an understated and minimalist design, is set into the ground, with avocado trees emerging from its surface. This solution not only allowed the avocado field to be kept intact, but also created a “fifth facade” – a bird's-eye view, designed for hang-gliding enthusiasts, which integrates beautifully with the visible facades.
Inside Casa Aguacates, the design opens up to a large and airy space, enriched by raw concrete elements and walls covered in Chukum, a natural stucco typical of the Yucatan. The open and simple layout creates a feeling of continuity, while the limited partition walls promote a fluid connection between the different areas. The interiors overlook an enchanting terrace, enriched by a hydromassage tub that looks directly towards the surrounding forest.
The Casa Aguacates is not only an architectural masterpiece, but also an extraordinary example of sustainability and respect for the environment. The materials have been carefully chosen to minimize the environmental impact and ensure low maintenance, as the property is primarily conceived as a weekend getaway. Recycled and sustainable wood has been used to create structural elements and design details, further enriching the overall natural aesthetic.
In summary, Francisco Pardo's Casa Aguacates represents a fascinating marriage between the majesty of architecture and the pristine beauty of nature. This hidden retreat embodies the symbiosis between human artistry and the natural world, offering inhabitants a magical escape and an opportunity to reconnect with their surroundings. With a bold vision and meticulous attention to detail, Francisco Pardo has created a place that leaves an indelible mark on the souls of those who visit it.
project info
PROJECT NAME: Casa Aguacates (Avocado House)
LOCATION: Valle de Bravo (Mexico)
ARCHITECT: Francisco Pardo Architect
DESIGN TEAM: Francisco Pardo, Wilfrido Estrada, Karen Burkart, Rosa Medrano, Catalina Lombardo, Joanne Elliott, Nayeli Mendez, Ivan Saucedo, Julián Román Ramirez, Renato Torres.
STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING: Luis David Moctezuma
ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION: Alejandro Moctezuma, Banah de México
CLIENT: Private
COMPLETE: 2021
GFA: 246 sqm (interiors), 86 sqm (outdoors), 110 sqm (roof garden)
SUPPLIERS
Wall finishing: Chukum
Lighting: LUZ DESIGN, Saul Bonilla
Furniture: The Metro
PHOTOGRAPHER: ©Sandra Pereznieto, ©Diego Padilla
