388 Monterrey House

The need for a clear differentiation between private family spaces and more public social areas was set out by the family from the beginning. Each area caters to distinct needs, scales, and levels of privacy. This concept is visually expressed through the project’s massing: the volumes of the social areas are oriented towards the exterior and stand out prominently from the landscape, while the family areas foster introspection by being more secluded and hidden. These distinct programmatic zones are given specific architectural qualities; the social areas feature cantilevered long-span structures supported by a central spine, while the family area relies on load-bearing walls and enclosed spans to define more intimate and private spaces.

The project’s fundamental structure is defined by volumes arranged perpendicularly to the slope. Overlaying this orthogonal order are horizontal and vertical voids in the massing in the form of courtyards and carved-out volumes, including the pool. The topography influences the overall volumetric composition and the layout of circulation routes, which either cut into or conform to the terrain. This configuration allows for continuity between interior and exterior, allowing the residents to enjoy a seamless indoor-to-outdoor lifestyle.

To leverage local expertise and construction techniques, the project incorporates the use of regional materials handled by local skilled workers alongside traditional building practices.